Changing the Narrative
Changing the narrative.
Public narratives of refugees are polarized. Some people see refugees as a “threat” to society or as a “crisis” for the country; other people see refugees as potential benefits to the culture, economy, and society.
The truth is that refugees have made an immense contribution to life in the UK in all walks of life— cultural, economic, and social. When interviewed about the negative climate for them in Britain, “asylum seekers and refugees said they felt that public misconceptions, rather than lack of sympathy, were the main barrier to a better perception of refugees.” So, we’re here to clarify myths and misconceptions.
First things first, migrants and refugees are two separate things. Refugees are people who have crossed an international border to find safety after fleeing war, violence, conflict, or persecution in their home country. Migrants incorporate anyone who has moved, specifically across an international border. These terms are not interchangeable. Similarly, although both desire protection from persecution, refugees and asylum seekers are not one and the same. Asylum seekers, by definition, have applied for legal protection but are awaiting a response, whereas refugees, by UK law, have been granted legal protection.
Myth: Asylum is a privilege.
Truth: Seeking asylum is a human right. No person should need to live in fear. With that said, it is time to strike down the stereotype that refugees come here by choice—to take advantage of benefits, to find better jobs, etc. People don’t want to leave their families or their home, but they move for a safe life. In fact, most people who cross international borders without papers usually put themselves and their families at risk.
Myth: Refugees are harmful to the economy.
Truth: Rather than see welcoming refugees as a cost, look at it as more of an investment. Refugees can help generate and/or fill jobs, and they pay taxes. An influx of refugees can increase a country’s overall GDP and create a healthier economy.
Myth: Refugees do not make for good employees.
Truth: It is actually the opposite. From first-hand experience, your NEMI team can tell you that refugees make for great employees. We find that refugees are reliable and willing to learn. Also, refugees are generally known to stay with their employers for longer periods of time which can provide a long-term economic advantage for the company.
Myth: There is nothing I can do to help refugees.
Truth: Everyone can help in some way, shape, or form. Something as small as sharing this post can help, but the most important thing you can do is educate yourself. Do not fall victim to the common myths and misconceptions.
‘The refugee challenge is not just about providing for immediate humanitarian needs, but is also about long term development, giving people the opportunity to lead meaningful and purposeful lives, to have access to education and employment opportunities’ Professor Alex Betts
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