Britain has launched a new Border Security Command to strengthen border security and combat people smuggling gangs profiting from small boat crossings. This initiative, promised by the Labour Party, follows their election victory.

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper announced rapid recruitment for a leader to direct efforts across multiple agencies, including the National Crime Agency and Border Force. New legislation with counter-terror style powers is being prepared.

Cooper also commissioned an investigation into smuggling tactics. Prime Minister Keir Starmer confirmed no flights to Rwanda would take asylum seekers from the UK. In 2023, approximately 40,000 people entered the UK illegally, with 130,000 asylum applications processed.

From Wednesday, nationals of South Africa and Botswana will need a visa to travel to Ireland, as announced by Justice Minister Helen McEntee. A transit visa will also be required for those passing through Ireland.

This decision aligns Ireland more closely with the Schengen Area. The change follows a significant number of International Protection applicants from these countries. Transitional arrangements are in place until August 9.

A dedicated desk and three Visa Application Centres will be established for South African nationals. Diplomatic passport holders from South Africa are exempt, with reciprocal arrangements for Irish diplomats. More information is available on the Irish Immigration Service’s website.

Hundreds of refugee and human rights organizations sent Keir Starmer a blueprint for asylum policy reform, urging a shift from previous government policies. The letter, signed by 300 organizations and 534 individuals, calls the current system "fundamentally broken."

Key demands include restoring the right to seek asylum, opening safe routes, housing asylum seekers in communities, and allowing them to work within six months.

Signatories argue the current approach harms mental health and increases border fatalities. They call for a humane, sensible system. A Home Office spokesperson responded that the government aims to enforce asylum rules swiftly and fairly.