UK Migrants Protest 15-Year Settlement Plan with Asa's Song

On 28 September, migrant workers in the United Kingdom protested against proposed immigration changes that would extend the qualifying period for permanent settlement to 15 years. The demonstration took place outside the Labour Party conference in Liverpool, where protesters sang Nigerian singer Asa's song 'Jailer' while wearing chains.

The protest was organized by UNISON, the UK’s largest trade union, with over 400 participants. UNISON stated that the song was chosen for its themes of oppression and resistance.

The proposed changes, under Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, would require care staff, NHS employees, and lower-paid public service workers to wait 15 years for settlement instead of the current five. UNISON General Secretary Andrea Egan criticized these changes, arguing they would lead to insecurity and exploitation for migrant workers.

The union is advocating for a sector-wide visa sponsorship system and the retention of the five-year qualifying period, particularly affecting Nigerian nationals who made up a significant portion of care worker visas granted in 2023.