Why should Scotland welcome the refugees from Syria?

Scotland has had a long history of welcoming refugees and asylum seekers from all over the world. The contribution of our refugee communities over successive generations has helped make Scotland the proud, successful and diverse country it is today. Indeed it is our very diversity that makes us stronger and more competitive as a nation.

Syrian refugees are fleeing their homes in the search for protection and security, and we are their refuge. We need to show that we are a country of compassion and acceptance and welcome the Syrian refugees to Scotland. We cannot let the actions of the few destroy the safety, the values, the freedoms and the way of life of the many. This is first and foremost a humanitarian crisis and it requires a humanitarian response – Scotland should stand ready to help to offer sanctuary to refugees who need our help.

People across Scotland have every right to seek and receive assurances that robust security checks are being carried out and that public safety is not being compromised. The Scottish Government is working closely with the Home Office who have robust and thorough screening processes in place for refugees arriving in the UK. The Home Office have also been working closely with the UNHCR who have their own robust identification processes in place.

The Syrian refugees being resettled in Scotland are some of the most vulnerable refugees – fleeing persecution, war and the impact of terror – and are coming directly from the region. They are screened and considered by the Home Office before their arrival.