The issue of small boat crossings has become a heated political and humanitarian debate, but how do Britain and France each view this crisis? 

Produced by Anne Daguerre and Nick Lazar, this timely film delves deep into the contrasting perspectives between Britain and France regarding migration, border security, and humanitarian responsibility. Through candid interviews with officials, activists, academics, and migrants themselves, the documentary highlights the stark differences and surprising commonalities in how both nations navigate this shared challenge.   

Following a successful premiere at Duke’s at Komedia, Brighton, and a vibrant panel discussion, the film continues to spark important conversations. 

A fresh perspective on the Channel crossings debate 

The documentary takes a fresh angle, focusing on the often-fraught relationship between France and the UK when it comes to migration across the Channel 

and interpolating perspectives from both countries. Rather than centring on the lived experiences of migrants (which the filmmakers noted has been well-covered elsewhere) the film looks at the interplay between politicians, rights groups, and filmmakers, revealing the tensions, misunderstandings, and sometimes flawed assumptions that shape policy and public opinion.  

The documentary also explored the British government’s “smash the gangs” approach, questioning its effectiveness in addressing the underlying causes of dangerous Channel crossings. 

Challenging questions in the Q&A 

Following the screening, filmmakers Dr Anne Daguerre, a social justice policy academic at the University of Brighton, and Nick Lazar, a director, filmmaker and actor, led a Q&A session.  

Audience members asked challenging questions about the absence of certain political voices, the role of the media in shaping public perception, and the need for more context and fact-checking in the national conversation.  

Discussions also touched on issues such as the organisation of smuggling networks, the reasons why many migrants want to leave France, and the realities those who arrive in the UK via other routes and later claim asylum face. 

Why events like this matter 

For our team, the evening was both inspiring and sobering. It underlined the need for more informed, nuanced discussions about migration – ones that recognise the human realities behind the headlines, challenge harmful narratives, and push for policies grounded in justice and compassion. 

We are very grateful to Anne, Nick and the other organisers for not only hosting this screening but also directing proceeds to Voices in Exile, helping us continue our work supporting refugees, asylum seekers, and vulnerable migrants in the local area. 

To find out more about the documentary, including details of how you can watch it, visit smallboatsdocumentary.com. 

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As part of Refugee Week 2025, we were invited to take part in a special service on Sunday 22nd June at the Unitarian Church on New Road, Brighton. The theme of this year’s Refugee Week, Community as a Superpower, felt especially fitting as we reflected on faith, belonging, and the shared humanity that connects us all. 

The service, led by Rev Jennifer Sanders, brought together powerful images, moving words, and some of the stories of people who have been personally affected by migration or seeking asylum.  

As part of the service, our Director Alison Kelly spoke to the congregation about the history and impact of Voices in Exile, the challenges facing our service users today, and the growing importance of standing in solidarity with refugees and migrants. She called on us all to challenge anti-migrant rhetoric and celebrate the vital contributions migrants make to our communities, reminding us that Refugee Week is not only a moment of reflection, but a call to action.

A highlight of the morning was the striking photography exhibition, The Faces of Voices in Exile, by Carlos Jasso. Through his photography, Carlos aims to highlight the individuals within the Voices in Exile community – not as numbers, statistics, or outsiders, but as people building new lives, friendships, and identities. The exhibition was a tribute to the richness migrants bring to their new communities, the knowledge they share, and the resilience they embody. By showcasing their portraits, Carlos reminds us that, at our core, we are all human. Regardless of our beliefs, or backgrounds, we are individuals deserving of dignity, respect, and a place to belong. 

We were also deeply moved by a poetry reading from Nematullah (Nemat) Ahangosh, who shared three poems from his collection The Colour of Peace: Perhaps a little worried, Fitting in, and Unleash love?. Each poem reflected lived experiences of migration and the longing for peace, identity, and acceptance. 

Nemat’s poetry book The Color of Peace can be purchased here. 

One person in the congregation shared afterwards: 

“The voices from the service and the pictures really moved me this morning. It was great to be reminded of our common humanity, as our usual daily diet of reporting on refugees has such a negative feel. Thank you for coming and for your work.” 

Thank you to everyone who helped to make this event possible and to everyone who came along.

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This July, we hosted our annual Summer Celebration at the Fitzherbert Centre, bringing together staff, service users, volunteers, fundraisers, and members of the local community. It was a beautiful day of connection, with something for everyone—from face painting and table tennis to outdoor games for the children, creating an inclusive and lively atmosphere for all ages.

We were honoured by a special guest appearance from Brighton & Hove’s new Mayor, Councillor Mohammed Asaduzzaman, who shared words of welcome and solidarity with our community. As the city’s first Muslim mayor, his presence highlighted our shared dedication to building a diverse, compassionate community for all.

Attendees enjoyed a delicious array of homemade food prepared by our volunteers and clients, as well as an incredible Voices-themed cake. The evening wrapped up with dancing, conversation, and laughter—a perfect close to a memorable celebration.

Thank you to Cllr and Mrs Asaduzzaman for joining us, and to all the volunteers, clients, and supporters who helped organise this wonderful event. It was a day filled with joy, connection, and the true spirit of Voices in Exile!

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