In a bold move to address the growing crisis of illegal migration, UK Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has announced a comprehensive overhaul of the country’s asylum system. The reforms, set to be unveiled on Monday, include extending the waiting period for permanent settlement from five to 20 years for those granted asylum. Additionally, refugee status will be subject to regular reviews, and individuals from countries deemed safe will be required to return home. Mahmood described her initiative as a ‘moral mission,’ emphasizing the need to restore public trust in the asylum system. The measures aim to deter illegal migration by making the UK a less attractive destination, particularly targeting small boat crossings and asylum claims. As part of the strategy, the UK will also suspend visa issuance to citizens of Angola, Namibia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo unless their governments improve cooperation on removals. Critics, including Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp and Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey, have questioned the effectiveness of the reforms, with Philp advocating for immediate deportation of illegal migrants and Davey calling for the right to work for asylum seekers. Mahmood defended her approach, citing the need to address ‘unfair’ conditions that she claims favor asylum seekers over UK citizens. The reforms draw inspiration from Denmark’s stringent asylum policies, which have been praised for their effectiveness in curbing illegal migration. However, the proposals have faced backlash from some Labour MPs and refugee advocacy groups, who argue that the extended waiting period will leave asylum seekers in prolonged uncertainty. Despite the controversy, Mahmood remains steadfast in her commitment to tackling illegal migration, which she believes is ‘tearing the country apart.’