UK government closes resettlement schemes for Afghan allies

In the UK, resettlement programs for Afghans who aided British troops and advanced democratic values have been abruptly terminated as of July 1, 2025. The changes were announced quietly within an explanatory memorandum regarding new immigration regulations issued by the Home Office. The Afghan Relocations and Assistance Policy (Arap) closed to new applicants, requiring Afghans to have applied for assistance between April 1, 2021, and July 1, 2025, to be eligible. Additionally, the Afghan Citizens Resettlement Scheme (ACRS), which focused on vulnerable refugees, has ceased accepting new referrals. Charities and advocacy groups have condemned the government's decision, stating it greatly endangers the lives of Afghans who remain at risk from the Taliban. Gunes Kalkan, from Safe Passage International, expressed alarm over the closure, describing it as an end to a lifeline for vulnerable individuals and families still facing persecution. Concerns about the fate of those with pending applications or reviews of negative decisions were also raised, as the closure was executed with no prior warning. The situation follows earlier announcements by Defense Secretary John Healey, who indicated plans to merge and eventually close these resettlement schemes, although no specific timeline was provided. Government statistics show that by the end of May 2025, 21,316 individuals were relocated under the Arap scheme, but its management has faced criticism due to errors by caseworkers that denied potential applicants safety from the Taliban. As international challenges to Afghan allies continue, similar disarray is occurring in the U.S., where many allies are confronting an uncertain future. The conclusion of the Coordinator for Afghan Relocation Efforts (CARE) program leaves those previously relying on it for safety with limited options, raising ethical concerns. Advocates emphasize the need for more support and safe pathways for Afghans who have supported Western efforts and may now face grave repercussions due to their past affiliations.