Posted on by

Amplifying ESEA Voices: SEEAWA’s Contribution to the APPG Inquiry on Domestic Abuse

Amplifying Invisible Voices Reflecting on Our Landmark Event at the Houses of Parliament

Dear SEEAWA Community,

We are proud to share that SEEAWA is contributing to a landmark inquiry led by the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Domestic Violence & Abuse, supported by Imkaan, Southall Black Sisters, and Women’s Aid.

About the Inquiry

  • Title: Public Sector Response to Black, Minoritised and Migrant Survivors of Domestic Abuse
  • Submission Window: 15th October – 19th November 2026

This inquiry comes at a critical time following the publication of the VAWG Strategy. It addresses harmful racialised narratives and examines how Black, minoritised, and migrant survivors experience public services—including healthcare, housing, policing, immigration, and specialist domestic abuse support.

As a key partner, Imkaan supported the inquiry’s development and will lead evidence analysis and report recommendations.

How SEEAWA Contributed

Drawing on community feedback and frontline insights, SEEAWA highlighted the unique structural barriers East and Southeast Asian (ESEA) women face:

  • Overcoming the “Model Minority” Stereotype: Countering assumptions that ESEA survivors are low-risk or self-sufficient, which often leads to lower referral rates.
  • Tackling NRPF & Immigration Barriers: Highlighting how “No Recourse to Public Funds” and fear of immigration enforcement trap migrant survivors in unsafe situations.
  • Demand for Language & Cultural Justice: Advocating for trauma-informed, linguistically nuanced, and culturally specific support over basic translation.
  • Addressing Intersectional Harm: Exposing the double burden of gender-based violence combined with anti-Asian racism and xenophobia.

Driving Systemic Change

By embedding ESEA realities into parliamentary record, we are pushing for:

  1. National Policy Reform: Direct recommendations holding public institutions accountable.
  2. Ring-Fenced Funding: Essential support for specialist, “by and for” ESEA services.
  3. Safe Public Pathways: Non-discriminatory access to healthcare, housing, and protection regardless of status.

Take Action

We encourage members, advocates, and practitioners to submit evidence before 19th November 2026. Your insights ensure ESEA survivors are heard at the highest levels of policy.

In solidarity,

The SEEAWA Team