UK Allows Iraqi Interpreters to Resettle

On October 6, the British government announced that it will allow Iraqi interpreters and other key support staff to settle in the United Kingdom. Iraqis who worked for British forces are particularly vulnerable to being targeted by insurgents and militia groups. Over the past several months, we placed op-eds and letters in major British papers, including The Independent and The Sunday Times, contributed to several prominent television, radio, and newspaper stories, including a front-page story in the Times, and conducted public and private advocacy to press the government to change its policy of non-preferential treatment for employees seeking refuge. Although details of the plan and how it will be implemented are still being finalized, the move is an important acknowledgement of the UK’s responsibility toward its Iraqi employees.