Our Statement in Support of the Nation of Sanctuary Commitment

Yesterday, the Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice, Jane Hutt MS, made a statement in the Senedd restating Welsh Government support for the Nation of Sanctuary policy and vision.

Oasis CEO, Susie Ventis-Field issued the following response:

“At Oasis, we unequivocally support the vision of Wales as a Nation of Sanctuary. We join many other communities across Wales in being a place of a warm Welsh welcome to people seeking sanctuary from all over the world.

Today, the Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice has reaffirmed the Welsh Government’s commitment to Wales’ Vision as a Nation of Sanctuary.  We welcome the restated commitment, but we need much more concrete action to support the word, actions that make sure people seeking sanctuary can thrive in Wales. 

This is increasingly urgent, as we believe the Nation of Sanctuary vision is under threat from the rise in hateful rhetoric and misinformation that dehumanises people seeking sanctuary.  Our leaders in Wales need to stand firm against voices which seek to create division, and take the opportunity now to put resources and energy into the Nation of Sanctuary, working with communities across Wales. We also expect them to take the opportunity to work more closely with the UK Government towards a humane asylum system. 

Sanctuary seekers coming to Wales have the right to have access to the services and opportunities they need to rebuild their lives and thrive, but also to live in safe communities where they feel welcome. At Oasis, we will continue to work towards this vision and will hold others to account to do the same.”