Thousands of migrants have made the perilous journey across the English Channel since Starmer assumed office, surpassing 50,000.
In a bid to address the rising issue of refugee boats crossing the English Channel, Keir Starmer's government has recently strengthened diplomatic efforts, particularly through a new agreement with Iraq signed in August 2025. This agreement aims to expedite deportations of Iraqi nationals without legal right to stay in the UK and enhances cooperation on border security and fighting organized crime, including migrant smuggling.
The agreement seems to be yielding results, with small boat arrivals from Iraq decreasing from 2,600 to 1,900 over the past year, indicating some effectiveness in reducing illegal migration through targeted international partnerships. The agreement also includes support for reintegration of returnees and broader cooperation on trade, defense, and security, signaling a comprehensive strategy beyond just border enforcement.
This approach marks a shift away from previous UK policies, such as the Rwanda deportation scheme, towards working directly with source countries under Prime Minister Starmer’s government. While it is still early to fully assess long-term impact, the initial data and strengthened diplomatic ties suggest this approach is more nuanced and potentially more sustainable at addressing smuggling networks behind Channel crossings.
Under the agreement, the UK will return migrants who arrive in small boats and have inadmissible asylum applications to France. In exchange for each person returned, the UK will allow one migrant to enter legally. It's important to note that the agreement does not provide information about the nationality or circumstances of the migrants.
Since Keir Starmer's inauguration last July, over 50,000 migrants have crossed the English Channel to the UK. This year alone, over 27,000 people have made the dangerous journey. Starmer, who campaigned on a promise to dismantle the smuggling networks behind the refugee boats crossing the English Channel, has yet to announce specific actions regarding the increase in migration.
The rise in migration has put Starmer under increasing domestic pressure. On Monday alone, 474 people crossed the English Channel, adding to the growing concern. The right-wing populist Reform UK party has recently gained in polls, potentially increasing the pressure on Starmer to take more decisive action.
[1] Government Press Release, "New Agreement with Iraq to Combat Channel Migration", August 2025 [2] BBC News, "UK and Iraq Agree on Migration Deal", August 2025
- The new Community policy, as part of Keir Starmer's government's approach, includes strengthened diplomatic efforts, such as the employment of the recently signed agreement with Iraq, which aims to combat migration, particularly the smuggling of migrants, and bolster border security.
- The ongoing politics surrounding migration in the UK, exacerbated by the surge in small boat arrivals, has resulted in increased scrutiny of Keir Starmer's Employment policy, particularly his strategy to address the issue of Channel crossings, as he continues to face pressure from both within and outside his party.
