Pakistanis top list of asylum seekers in UK, surpass Afghans

London: Pakistani nationals have topped the list of asylum seekers in the United Kingdom, according to the latest data released by the UK Home Office.

In 2023, a total of 11,048 Pakistani citizens applied for asylum, making up a significant portion of the 109,343 total applications received.

It marks a notable shift from the previous year when Pakistani nationals ranked third among asylum applicants.

The data highlights a significant development, as Pakistanis have now emerged as the leading nationality among asylum seekers in the UK—a marked change from their previous position.

Another key finding reveals that 33% of migrants who reached the UK via dangerous sea routes in small boats also applied for asylum, underscoring the risks involved in such perilous journeys.

Afghan nationals ranked second, with 8,069 asylum applications, reflecting the ongoing political instability and economic challenges in the region that continue to drive migration.

The experts suggested that the sharp rise in Pakistani asylum seekers may be attributed to a combination of factors including economic instability, political unrest and limited job opportunities in the country. The figures provide a broader commentary on the socio-economic conditions not just in Pakistan but across South Asia.

The British authorities said that each application would be assessed individually and judged fairly. However, the increasing numbers also underline the urgent need for comprehensive migration policies across European nations to address the growing crisis.