UK govt launches social media campaign to deter Vietnam migrants

by The Curator

Updated June 02, 2025

UK govt launches social media campaign to deter Vietnam migrants

Britain is warning potential illegal immigrants, in Vietnam, against coming to the country by 'small boats'.

The UK Home Office launched a social media campaign aimed at Vietnamese nationals, cautioning against the dangers and consequences of illegal migration to the UK through small boat crossings.

It is part of a broader strategy to address the rising number of illegal entries across the English Channel, particularly from Vietnam, the Home Office said.

The campaign, launched in Vietnam, employs real-life testimonies and dramatic imagery to illustrate the perils of the journey and the challenges faced by those who arrive in the UK illegally.

Messages warn of 'the harsh realities awaiting illegal migrants', including the risk of exploitation by criminal gangs, the dangers of the crossing itself, and the lack of legal rights and access to public services once they arrive in the UK.

It is said to follow a successful similar campaign in Albania last year, which the UK government said significantly contributed to a 90% reduction in small boat arrivals from the country.

The UK government credits social media advertisements for that success and aims to replicate it in Vietnam, where it says an increasing number of migrants have been making the perilous journey.

The advertisements on platforms like Facebook and YouTube clearly outline the UK's stringent immigration laws and the severe consequences of living in the country without legal permission, it is claimed.

Social media posts aim to counter false narratives propagated by people smugglers who profit from these dangerous crossings.

British Home Secretary James Cleverly highlighted the campaign's importance, stating it showcases the stark contrast between the smugglers' promises and the actual experiences of migrants.

So-called 'small boat crossings' continue to be a contentious issue.

Explore Bias

Media reports focus primarily on the government's perspective and efforts to curb illegal migration, potentially downplaying the complexity of migration issues and the reasons behind individuals' decisions to migrate.

Highlighting the alleged success of the campaign in Albania, without detailed analysis, may oversimplify such measures and potentially ignore other contributing factors.

Prominent coverage of the scheme largely omits critical perspectives, including from human rights organizations, opposition parties, or migrants groups, which could otherwise offer a more balanced view of the issue.

Claims across numerous media outlets regarding public dissatisfaction with immigration, and its handling by the government, suggest a consensus that may not fully represent the diverse views within the UK.