Refugee speaks out as councillors clash over housing pressures and immigration by Sajjad Jabarkhel, speech at Somerset Council Full Council, May 22nd, 2025
My name is Sajjad, and I am originally from Afghanistan. I currently live in the UK as a refugee. I am here to speak against [the Conservative] motion—not because I dismiss the real and growing pressures on housing in Somerset, but because I believe it risks misrepresenting the challenges we face and, more importantly, the values that define us as a community.
Firstly, while the motion rightly acknowledges the pressure on our housing, it frames refugees and asylum seekers, particularly Afghans, as a primary cause of this strain. This is both misleading and unfair. Many of these Afghans worked alongside British and allied forces, risking their lives to support our military and democratic efforts. To suggest that their resettlement is a burden disrespects their sacrifices and undermines the deep bonds of trust they forged with our armed forces. I understand this may not be the intention, but such language can easily be misinterpreted and fuel unnecessary division.
The council must remember that most of those coming through the Afghan Relocations and Assistance Policy (ARAP) have lost family members and loved ones while supporting British troops. Disrespecting those who stood by our soldiers in the most dangerous situations is not just a betrayal of our values, but a message the public, who deeply respect our armed forces, will not tolerate.
Secondly, we face two significant challenges: pressure on the public sector and job shortages at major projects. Rather than framing refugees as a strain, why not prepare a motion to develop a strategy that trains newcomers, ensuring they are set up for success and can support themselves while contributing to the public sector—just as I have? I am immensely grateful to the taxpayers who enabled me to study in this country. Today, I am qualified for six different roles on the shortage occupation list having attended a Russel Group University for my degree and master’s and contribute more in taxes than the pre-tax income of the average UK worker.
I will always feel a deep sense of gratitude. I also volunteer up to 20 hours a week at a local cricket club because I believe in giving back to the community that has given me this opportunity. Let’s extend this same chance to others, allowing them to contribute meaningfully to society.
Somerset has a proud history of welcoming those in need. It is this spirit that has defined our county for generations, and it is this spirit that we should be promoting in this chamber. Somerset plays a vital role in national resettlement because the people of Somerset are generous and well represented by capable councillors like you.
Finally, there is a growing national rhetoric that unfairly portrays refugees and asylum seekers in a negative light. Some influential voices argue that equality itself is a form of injustice, which is both concerning and disheartening. You all hold these roles because you care deeply about this country and its people.
This motion is an example of someone trying to make a positive difference. However, please be mindful that your words are not misinterpreted or twisted to serve a different agenda. It has taken a great deal of courage for me to stand here and share my thoughts. Thank you for giving me this platform. This country has given me so much, and I know that no amount of effort on my part can ever fully repay that debt. I firmly believe that those given the opportunity to live in this country must do their best to contribute to its growth and success. I will always strive to give back to this community.
So, my question to this house is this: as a refugee from Afghanistan, what more can I do to ensure that my right to equality and opportunity is not seen as injustice?
Sajjad Jabarkhel
Facts and fiction about housing, refugees and asylum seekers in Somerset