The power of symbolic sanctuary: insights from Wales on the limitations and potential of a regional approach to sanctuary

This article explores sanctuary policies and practices from a regional perspective. Following declaration by the Welsh government in 2019, Wales became first only European region to explicitly connect wider movement, with stated intention of becoming true ‘Nation Sanctuary' (NoS) (Welsh Government. 2019. “Nation Sanctuary: Refugee Asylum Seeker Plan.” Cardiff: Government). We argue that government’s approach is richly symbolic used strategically compensate for lack formal legislative competencies field immigration, position itself opposition UK government. The highlights potential underpin form sanctuary, along their limitations. show regions can use overcome competency asylum allow governments themselves as allies those supporting refugees seekers, an opponent state. In addition, we illustrate how government's commitment facilitates concerted action on part relevant actors within region. However, also highlight fragility inconsistency sanctuary.