Asylum: Understanding Public Attitudes

Article

Attitudes to asylum seekers have reached new levels of hostility, yet the British public also supports the principle of asylum. Through extensive qualitative research ippr has tried to find out what lies beneath these seemingly contradictory attitudes. The author evaluates the extent to which the media, politicians and racism play a role in the current negative public debate. The findings show the importance of local action and political leadership in challenging prejudices which are very often based upon misinformation.

"The report has involved extensive primary research and brings the latest thinking on the subject to our attention. As Chair of the Commission for Racial Equality, I will be actively considering how its recommendations fit our work, and how the report can inform our work. I urge others to do the same."

Trevor Philips OBE, Chair, Commission for Racial Equality

Attitudes to asylum seekers have reached new levels of hostility, yet the British public also supports the principle of asylum.

Through extensive qualitative research ippr has tried to find out what lies beneath these seemingly contradictory attitudes. The author evaluates the extent to which the media, politicians and racism play a role in the current negative public debate.

The findings show the importance of local action and political leadership in challenging prejudices which are very often based upon misinformation.

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