Understanding Immigration Policy
Migration Watch UK is an independent, non-partisan research organisation founded in 2001. We analyse immigration and population growth, providing accurate, evidence-based information to inform public debate and policy decisions. Our focus is on sustainable, well-managed immigration that reflects the long-term interests of the UK.
Our Mission and Core Values
Our mission is to monitor immigration and population trends, providing the public and policymakers with clear, fact-based insights. We aim to promote sustainable immigration policies that balance social, economic, and environmental needs. As an impartial and independent body, we receive no government funding and operate solely to ensure the facts are widely accessible and understood. Through research, analysis, and public engagement, we help ensure that immigration remains manageable, responsible, and aligned with the wishes of the British public.
What We Do and Why It Matters
Migration Watch UK conducts research and analysis on immigration trends, population growth, and the sustainability of current migration levels. We publish reports, statistics, and briefings to provide clear information to policymakers and the media, while monitoring policy developments, evaluating their impacts, and making recommendations for sustainable immigration. By presenting data in context, we foster informed debate and support decision-making that balances the benefits of migration with the UK’s capacity to manage population growth effectively.
Understanding immigration and population trends is vital for sustainable planning and policymaking. With net migration around 250,000 per year, the UK faces significant demographic change in the coming decades. Migration Watch UK provides independent, evidence-based analysis to ensure public debate is informed by facts rather than opinion. Our forecasts and research help policymakers, the media, and the public understand the social, economic, and environmental impacts of migration and the importance of maintaining manageable, well planned population growth.
The Advisory Council
Our Advisory Council brings together experts from business, academia, law, medicine, politics, and journalism. The Council advises on research priorities, communication and methodology, ensuring that our output is accurate, independent, and authoritative. Their diverse expertise strengthens our ability to provide dependable insights.
Alp Mehmet, MVO
Former diplomat, Ambassador to Iceland, Alp Mehmet brings decades of diplomatic and immigration and international policy insight to Migration Watch UK, of which he is Chairman. He succeeded Lord Green in 2019 having been vice chairman for 10 years.
Lord Green of Deddington
Lord Andrew Green is a former British diplomat who spent 35 years in the Diplomatic Service, including posts as Ambassador to Syria and Saudi Arabia. He co-founded Migration Watch UK in 2001 and serves as its President, drawing on extensive international experience. He was elevated to the peerage in 2014 where he has regularly intervened on immigration matters.
Professor David Coleman
Emeritus Professor of Demography at the University of Oxford, David Coleman has published extensively on population trends, fertility, immigration and ethnic demography. He has served as a government adviser and consultant to international organisations and offers demographic expertise to Migration Watch UK. He has been on the MW Advisory Council.
Explore Further
Media
Watch our most recent broadcast appearances, interviews, and briefings, where we comment on immigration, population growth, and related policy issues. These videos offer timely, expert insight and considered responses to current developments in the public and political debate.
Blogs
We publish blogs that draw on data and research, and through them we inform debate, spark discussion, and explore the wider implications of current developments.
Statistics
Migration Watch UK monitors and analyses official immigration and population statistics. We chart trends, report key developments, and provide clear, accessible insights to help understand migration and its impact on the UK.