There is a growing discourse about whether saying we should not use the term "migrant" for those crossing the channel creates a "Good/Bad immigrant" narrative. I have to say, while I understand the argument, I entirely disagree. 1/
https://twitter.com/LBC/status/1464170816359354398?s=20
Anyone who moves from their place of birth is, technically, a migrant. They have "migrated". The name "Sohege" is hardly a traditional British one. My family history is replete with people who have moved from their countries of origin. "Migrant" is a catch all term. 2/
The problem when we are using it in relation to those crossing the channel is it conflates the "immigration system" with the "asylum system", leading to such arguments as "queue jumpers" and people asking why they don't just "get a visa" 3/
Asylum seekers have very specific legal rights. Perhaps most importantly in this context, including the right not to be penalised for their manner of entry. This is a internationally recognised legal right which the #BordersBill specifically seeks to remove. 4/
Asylum seekers also have very different and specific needs. To be classed as one you need to fulfil certain criteria, criteria which often leads to significant trauma. This makes their situations somewhat different. 5/
"Migrant" is not, and should never be considered, a negative term. The world is based on migration. People move, it's a natural function, but in such a highly contentious and toxic debate, as we see regarding asylum seekers, precision is important. 6/
Under normal circumstances people cannot apply for asylum from outside of the country they are seeking it in. It's not practical to assume that someone fleeing persecution will be able to obtain necessary documents. These are all factors recognised in international law. 7/
Ensuring that we use the term "asylum seeker" rather than "migrant" for those who are seeking asylum isn't about creating a "hierarchy", or diminishing other migrants. It is about recognising they have different needs and are processed through different systems. 8/
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