A new report by the Institute of Race Relations has detailed how citizenship-stripping powers introduced since 2002, and culminating in the Nationality and Borders Act 2022, have enshrined a ‘second-class citizenship’ in the UK that mainly affects British Muslims.
Responding to the report, Zara Mohammed, Secretary-General, Muslim Council of Britain, said:
“This report by the Institute of Race Relations highlights how successive Governments have historically used deprivation of citizenship, creating a two-tiered citizenship, to the detriment of Muslim communities.
“The Muslim Council of Britain, alongside a broad coalition of groups, opposed the Nationality & Borders Act 2022 throughout the course of its passage through the houses of parliament. It is draconian extension of legislation that has had devastating consequences for British citizens and those seeking asylum.
“Nationality and citizenship are not a privilege but a human right. They should not be removed, as this most recent Act allows, by the Government, especially without prior notice, question or ability to appeal. Such legislation is an affront to human rights and our international obligations.”
ENDS
Notes to editors:
- For any media enquiries, contact: media@mcb.org.uk
- The Muslim Council of Britain (MCB) is the UK’s largest and most diverse Muslim umbrella organisation with over 500 affiliated national, regional and local organisations, mosques, charities and schools.
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