Rights Groups Warn of Discriminatory Use of Citizenship Deprivation in Britain

Rights Groups Warn of Discriminatory Use of Citizenship Deprivation in Britain
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A new report has raised serious concerns among human rights organisations over the United Kingdom’s use of citizenship deprivation powers, warning that the policy is being applied disproportionately to Muslims and ethnic minorities.

According to the report, published by a coalition of international rights groups, people of Muslim background—particularly those with Middle Eastern, South Asian and North African heritage—account for the vast majority of cases in which British citizenship has been revoked. The findings suggest that individuals from minority backgrounds are up to 12 times more likely to be stripped of their nationality than white British citizens, prompting allegations of systemic discrimination.

The report notes that the UK is currently the only G20 country conducting citizenship removals on a large scale. Since 2010, more than 200 people have reportedly lost their nationality, often on broad “public interest” grounds related to national security. In many cases, individuals were allegedly not informed in advance or given a meaningful opportunity to challenge the decision.

Researchers also criticised the secrecy surrounding the process, including the use of closed courts where affected individuals are unable to attend. Rights groups have urged the government to suspend the practice, review existing legislation, and ensure greater transparency, judicial oversight, and equal protection under the law.