Btisih Quakers have issued a strong statement on the plight of Afghan refugees:

The 20-year NATO intervention in Afghanistan did not bring about a peaceful and democratic society. Around five million people who have fled since 2012 have not been able to return to their homes. After the events of the last few days, many more will surely follow.

After almost two decades of military presence, Quakers say the UK has a moral responsibility to people displaced by the conflict. The UK government should work urgently with others to expand safe and legal routes for migration and offer sanctuary to those who need it. The UK’s promise to provide visas for Afghan nationals working with British officials is a start, but the responsibility does not end there

”Current UK policy means that many migrants have no choice but to risk their lives on dangerous journeys to Britain and face hardship and a hostile environment when they arrive,” said Paul Parker, Recording Clerk for Quakers in Britain. “This will be made worse by proposals in the Nationality and Borders Bill currently going through parliament. Now is not the time to harden our hearts to vulnerable people forced to flee their homes. Instead we need to change our approach to one that emphasises our common humanity.”

More on the Quakers in Britain web site