Ten years after Calais ‘Jungle’, thousands seeking refuge remain trapped at France-UK border

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The informal settlement site was set up for the thousands waiting in the hope of crossing the Channel to reach Britain in 2015 and saw French police forcibly evacuate those at the site a year later, with shelters set on fire. 

Doctors Without Borders (MSF) has warned that France’s northern coastline remains a transit point for many men, women, and children who, after often long and dangerous journeys, find themselves trapped at the border, living in degrading and unsanitary conditions that have serious consequences for their health.

MSF forced displacement advocacy adviser Sophie McCann said: “The UK government should urgently provide safe and accessible routes for people seeking sanctuary trying to reach the UK.

“MSF’s medical and mental health teams working on the French coast treat the physical and psychological consequences of these precarious living conditions and failed crossing attempts every day. 

“Current efforts to stop people trying to reach the UK by boat are failing and we urge the government to find a new way forward.”