Faith, bordering and modern slavery: A UK case study

Abstract

In this paper we consider the imbrication of UK immigration and border controls into support environments of the anti-modern slavery sphere. We draw on the findings of a 3.5 years ESRC-funded study to explore how the increasingly strident government anti-migrant agenda - broadly seen in the ‘hostile environment’, a culture of disbelief and an overarching preeminence of border controls over human rights protections - is percolating into care providers in the modern slavery sector. Bordering in this sector has not had the same level of scrutiny as within the asylum sector, yet is a particularly interesting site to explore due to the confluence of caring and control impulses. The fresh insight we bring to this context is a focus on the notable presence of faith-based organisations in this sphere. We consider the implications of the relationships between faith, support and bordering - both for those subjected to immigration controls, and those working inextricably within them to support individuals exiting exploitation.