The Home Office has revealed plans to allocate taxpayer funds towards TikTok campaigns, aiming to dissuade individuals from illegally migrating to the UK. The initiative, reported by The Times, involves collaborating with influencers to create videos discouraging such migration.

The proposed strategy, estimated to cost £1 million, is set to launch in the spring alongside a contentious scheme to relocate asylum seekers, many fleeing war and poverty, to Rwanda.

According to The Times, the TikTok campaign intends to convey the hostile environment awaiting migrants to the UK through engaging and relatable content posted by online influencers. While not directly branded by the UK government, influencers will be required to disclose their affiliation with the Home Office for transparency.

Targeting nations contributing significantly to illegal migration, such as Albania, Iraq, Egypt, and Vietnam, the campaign also plans to extend its reach to Turkey and India in the future. A substantial budget of £570,000 has reportedly been allocated to compensate influencers.

A spokesperson for the Home Office defended the social media strategy, citing the need to counter misinformation spread by human traffickers. They emphasized the reduction in illegal crossings by 36 percent last year, attributing it to relentless government action.

Despite government efforts to engage influencers, responses have been mixed. While a marketing agency has been tasked with identifying potential influencers, some candidates expressed surprise at their inclusion. Fabio Daja, an Albanian TikToker, conveyed reluctance to participate, citing the sensitivity of the issue surrounding refugees.

In an interview with The i newspaper, Daja emphasized his refusal to engage in a campaign that could potentially impact individuals attempting to cross borders for refuge. His sentiments reflect broader concerns regarding the ethical implications of using social media to deter migration.

As the UK government proceeds with its unconventional approach to migration deterrence, it faces scrutiny over the effectiveness and ethics of leveraging social media platforms for policy objectives.