Migrants from Diego Garcia Arrive in the UK After Years of Legal Battles

A group of Sri Lankan Tamils stranded on Diego Garcia for more than three years has arrived in the UK. This historic move marks the end of a protracted legal struggle, with the migrants from Diego Garcia granted temporary entry for six months under financial support from the Foreign Office.

The group of around 60 individuals, including 16 children, had been living in a makeshift camp on the remote Indian Ocean island—a UK-US military base—since 2021. As the first people to seek asylum there, they faced harsh conditions that drew international scrutiny. Reports from earlier this year highlighted overcrowded military tents, leaking structures, and issues with rats. The extreme circumstances led to hunger strikes, self-harm, and allegations of harassment within the camp.

Speaking on Monday, a government spokesperson described the relocation as a “one-off” response to the unique nature of the cases. Legal representatives, such as Tessa Gregory of Leigh Day, welcomed the decision, calling it a “sensible solution to end the humanitarian crisis” and a chance for this vulnerable group to rebuild their lives.

However, the move has not been without controversy. Letters from the Home Office made clear that the migrants’ entry does not equate to permanent settlement or recognition of refugee status. Additionally, they will not be permitted to work during their stay.

The case has also drawn attention to the uncertain future of the Chagos Islands, where Diego Garcia is located. In October, the UK announced plans to cede the islands to Mauritius, but this agreement has faced resistance. Foreign Secretary David Lammy has defended the arrangement, describing it as beneficial for both nations while addressing US concerns over the strategic military base on Diego Garcia.

The financial implications of hosting the migrants on Diego Garcia have been significant, with costs reportedly reaching £50 million per year. The UK government has since arranged for future migrants to be redirected to St Helena, another British Overseas Territory, until a sovereignty agreement with Mauritius is finalised.

For the migrants now in the UK, the future remains uncertain. While eight individuals have already been granted international protection, most await decisions on their applications. Despite these challenges, many expressed hope for a new beginning, with one migrant telling the BBC, “I hope my health will improve and I will transform into a new person.”

The United Nations Refugee Agency provides comprehensive guidelines on asylum and international protection, offering insights into the rights and processes for displaced individuals. You can explore these details further on UNHCR’s official website.

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