What now? 3 things funders can do following the ‘Illegal Migration Act’
By Marchu Belete and Sarah Cutler, Co-Directors at Migration Exchange
In July, the appalling ‘Illegal Migration Act’ became law. The implications for people seeking protection are terrifying. Civil society organisations and many politicians across the UK and the world are united in their dismay, warning of global ramifications for refugee protection.
People directly impacted by the Act’s provisions are regrouping and looking to the future. They are organising, resisting and campaigning. They will be supported by hundreds of charities and NGOs, which as our new research has shown, now rely more than ever on trusts and foundations.
How can funders respond in this moment? Drawing on the views of NGOs across the country, we are highlighting three things that independent funders can do in the months ahead.
1. Firstly, (re)commit to the issue and listen to your grant partners.
While the present is bleak, there is hope. Huge numbers of people opposed this Act, and more people than ever are standing up for rights, welcome and dignity. Ask those you fund what they need to build on this wider mobilisation, and let them know that you are standing with them.
2. Secondly, support those you fund to prepare, adapt and prioritise.
Organisational plans and service delivery will need to respond to this Act. Organisations will be trying to establish whether and when different parts of the Act will come into force, while continuing to support those in the system to survive, and deal with grief, burnout and anger among staff and volunteers. Offer funds for people to recharge and rest, and to build hope. Top up flexible grant funding in recognition of how important it is to develop relationships, build alliances and support those impacted.
3. Thirdly, address the funding barriers facing small organisations.
Ask your grant partners who else they are working with who need resource, and redouble efforts to reach small and grassroots organisations. These groups are often doing brilliant work with a fraction of the resource, as our new report shows.
This Act comes on the back of a turbulent period. People working in the UK refugee and migration sector are amazing at their jobs and experts on dealing with crises, but this work is exhausting. During the Covid-19 pandemic funders have shown that they can change their practice quickly, and for the better, but too many old habits remain. Now is a critical time for funders to take steps like reducing the burden of funding applications and reporting, and providing certainty by reducing the amount of short term, project funding. What more could you do to get rid of bureaucracy?
This Act uses the full force of the state in the name of migration control, with arbitrary and violent powers against communities. It will hit those who are already bearing the brunt of economic inequality and racism. This is not only a migration and refugee protection issue — it is about the kind of society we want and the values we all share.
Together, we have the power, people and expertise to push for long-term structural changes. Our new report outlines how joining together on priorities, backed up by funding for preparedness and collaboration, can win new ground and protect the values and rights we all share.
To discover the report, visit our website.
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Migration Exchange is hosted at Global Dialogue, a registered charity (1122052) partnering with philanthropy to advance rights, equity and diversity.
