Politics from the New Statesman On the ground in the new Calais Jungle
Oct 10, 2025
Miles Ellingham, a journalist specializing in migrant issues, and Jack Jeffrey, a seasoned reporter with conflict zone experience, dive deep into the new Calais Jungle. They discuss the harsh realities of migrant camps, including the zero fixation policy that keeps people in flux. Hear personal stories like that of a mother named Hope, and the trauma faced by young migrants from war-torn regions. They expose the complexities of smuggling routes, the financial burdens of crossing, and the moral failures within policy responses, advocating for a more humane approach.
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Young Men Dominate The Camps
- Jack Jeffrey observed the camp skewed heavily to young men, often 16–23, from several conflict-hit countries.
- He found many were like 'lads' with trauma but craving normal social interaction and jokes.
Eviction Standoffs And Unofficial Checkpoints
- Jack and Miles witnessed police evictions that funneled people into a 'red zone' controlled by aggressive men and unofficial checkpoints.
- A man threatened that if police came closer 'everyone here has a gun and everyone is going to fucking die.'
Crossings Run Like A Market
- Jack Jeffrey reported a thriving market for crossings with boat places priced around £1,000–£2,000 and lorry routes costlier but safer.
- He found the smugglers offered deals and repeat attempts varied by price and negotiation.