Migrant women
Demanding protection from domestic abuse
Migrant women find it virtually impossible to access protection if they experience domestic abuse. Many are blocked from accessing public funds and are turned away from life-saving refuges. And many are too scared to report the violence to the police or other services, for fear of being detained or deported. The fear is founded in reality: last year, 60 per cent of UK police forces admitted they referred victims of crime to the Home Office for immigration purposes.
The UK government has promised to reform the law on protection from domestic abuse, but its draft legislation fails to protect migrant women. Amnesty is campaigning with the Step Up Migrant Women coalition to ensure that migrant women affected by domestic abuse have equal access to protection and support.
‘Migrant women deserve to be heard and deserve safety.’
Illary Valenzuela-Oblitas, co-ordinator, Step Up Migrant Women
Solidarity message
Address
Migrant Women
c/o Amnesty International UK
The Human Rights Action Centre
17-25 New Inn Yard
London EC2A 3EA
Languages:
English, Portuguese or Spanish
Suggested message (keep short):
We support equal rights and equal protection for women, wherever they come from.
Creative action:
You can use the colour purple in your letter or card: it is often used in campaigns to end violence against women and girls.
Can I:
- Send a religious card or message? No
- Send an Amnesty card or mention Amnesty? Yes
- Include my name and address? No
Send an appeal letter
Ask the Home Secretary to ensure that migrant women have access to protection from domestic abuse.
Write to:
Migrant Women
c/o Amnesty International UK
The Human Rights Action Centre
17-25 New Inn Yard
London EC2A 3EA
Salutation: Dear Home Secretary
Message:
- The next UK government must give equal protection to all survivors of domestic abuse.
- Migrant survivors must be able to access the specialist services they need in a safe environment and free from discrimination.