Asylum is a lifesaving protection. When people migrate to other countries for safety, they bring a lot of changes to the host countries…and the policies governing them.
In the last decade, a massive increase in global displacement and asylum cases occurred. By the end of 2024, a record-setting 123 million people were forcibly displaced. This displacement took place because of war, abuses of human rights, violence, and other kinds of instability.
When asylum seekers arrive, they bring their own cultures, hopes, and experiences, but also the worries that come with starting over. Their presence can enrich community life, adding new voices and skills, yet it can also place extra pressure on schools, housing, and local services. New adjustments are made in neighbourhoods, workplaces, and communities. Among these changes, some bring positive energies and a diverse environment, while others bring uncertainty and unrest. And if support is limited, misunderstandings can grow, leading to tension or feelings of competition. The response of communities shows whether newcomers feel welcomed or pushed to the margins.
Asylum and migration now shape national and international politics. Countries are adopting new policies in this regard. In response to rising numbers, many countries have passed new immigration laws. Many regions of Europe brought reforms in the shape of the Pact of Migration and Asylum, 2024. Large-scale arrival of asylum seekers and refugees has forced the countries to increase their financial support. Internationally, some countries push for human rights and solidarity, while many countries have spoken of tighter borders, strict asylum laws, and deterrence measures.
In recent press talks, the UK Home Secretary, Shabana Mahmood, proposed several changes in immigration rules by increasing the time for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and also proposed new eligibility criteria for settlement in the UK. The President of the US also targeted immigrants who are settled in the US. After the President suspended the refugee program on day one of his current administration, thousands of people from around the world who had been so close to a new life in America found themselves abandoned.
When asylum seekers arrive, it is expected that they bring a burden with them in the form of housing, social support, and health. This may limit public resources, but as per a recent UN report, when these refugees are given the right to work, training, and free movement, they often contribute to raising GDP and generate jobs and economic activity. Similarly, several studies across Europe show that increased immigration either has a neutral or even positive impact on the labour market, especially when migration flows are managed carefully.
Migration Observatory found that long-term migration in the UK does not correspond to a rise in crime. Other studies also have shown that recent refugee waves show either no increase in crime or only modest effects overall, and if any, that can be due to economic marginalisation or integration failures and not just because of refugees.
Asylum, refugee, and displacement remain major issues globally. As per UNHCR, the report, which showed high displacement, is only a small dip since the high record in 2024. With ongoing conflicts and border tensions, immigration for asylum or refugee status seems unlikely to end soon.
On the international side, political governments and agencies are now working towards more consistent ways to manage asylum. European Union Agency for Asylum has published its report, which noted evolving migration patterns and urged for stronger cooperation between countries to manage asylum flows more efficiently and humanely. UNHCR also warns that with international cooperation and enough funding, including resettlement programs and integration support, many displaced people will face uncertainty and put more pressure on hosting states.
In short, asylum and refugee inflows should not be considered a burden, as they can transform into long-term socio-economic benefits. Policy makers need to respond to rising asylum claims. This means safer, legal paths ensuring early access to education, work, and training to help these migrants contribute to the economy rather than being dependent. It requires a lot of investment and building transparent asylum systems to protect them from dangerous journeys. Above all, cooperation and responsibility sharing are critical, as no country can alone deal with international migration.
The rise in the number of asylum seekers is not a number, but a variety of human stories. With collective efforts, the pressure of large immigration numbers can become a commitment to dignity and hope.
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Shehryar Hassan is the Right to Asylum and Human Rights Editor for Wandering Educators. He is a Master’s student in Human Rights and Diplomacy at the University of Stirling, with a strong academic and professional interest in international human rights. Passionate about issues concerning asylum seekers and displaced persons, Shehryar is currently interning with Wandering Educators as The Right to Asylum & Human Rights Editor, where they contribute to articles exploring global human rights topics. Dedicated to advancing human rights advocacy, Shehryar aspires to work with international organizations supporting vulnerable communities worldwide.