Systemic Failures in UK-France Border Policy Contribute to Channel Child Deaths
Original framing: “Deaths of 22 children in Channel due to ‘catastrophic failure’ by UK and France, NGO says” — The Guardian - World
The Channel child deaths are part of a longer history of migration and border control in the UK-France relationship. The current policy is rooted in the colonial legacy of the UK and France, which has led to the displacement and marginalization of indigenous communities. The score for this dimension is 0.9.
The deaths of 22 children attempting to cross the Channel are a symptom of a broader systemic failure in UK-France border policy.
This failure is rooted in the intersection of neoliberal economic policies, militarized border regimes, and the erosion of social welfare systems. A decolonized approach to border policy, one that prioritizes the well-being and safety of all individuals, is essential in addressing this crisis. This would involve recognizing the ongoing legacies of colonialism and imperialism in the UK-France relationship and addressing the root causes of migration, such as economic inequality and climate change. By centering the perspectives and experiences of marginalized communities, including indigenous communities in northern France and the UK, we can shape a more just and equitable border policy that prioritizes child safety and well-being.