Lord Dubs reflects on his experiences and advocacy for refugees in a podcast interview.

In the first episode of the Lord Speaker’s Corner podcast series, Lord McFall of Alcluith, the Lord Speaker, sits down with Lord Dubs to explore his remarkable life. Lord Dubs, who is now 90 years old, reflects on his early childhood as one of the Jewish children who were part of the Kindertransport during World War II. This initiative allowed him to escape Nazi-occupied Czechoslovakia, and it shaped his lifelong commitment to advocating for refugees.

The discussion takes a deep dive into Lord Dubs’ personal experiences during the Kindertransport and the lasting impact it had on his view of the world. Lord Dubs recalls the fear and uncertainty of being separated from his family at a young age but also the compassion shown by those who helped him. These formative years have inspired him to dedicate much of his life to improving the situation for refugees and displaced people.

A significant part of the conversation centers around Lord Dubs’ influential work in the House of Lords, where he has been a leading figure in advocating for the rights of refugees. He speaks about the challenges and successes in his long career as a member of the House, particularly regarding his efforts to change government policy to better support refugees, notably through the amendment to the Immigration Bill known as the “Dubs Amendment.”

Lord Dubs also reflects on his work in Northern Ireland, where both he and Lord McFall shared experiences of political turmoil. He highlights the importance of diplomacy, understanding, and resilience in navigating complex political environments, which has informed his work in the UK Parliament.

Throughout the interview, Lord McFall and Lord Dubs discuss how their shared values and experiences continue to guide their work in the House of Lords. Lord Dubs emphasizes that the fight for refugees is ongoing and that there is still much to be done, despite the progress made through legislative changes.

The episode is an intimate look into the life of Lord Dubs and provides insight into the personal motivations that drive his tireless advocacy for refugees. The Lord Speaker commends Lord Dubs’ determination and selflessness, stressing the importance of such efforts in creating a more compassionate and inclusive society.

Finally, the interview wraps up with Lord Dubs reflecting on his 90th birthday, offering a glimpse into his enduring spirit and passion for justice. He expresses his hope for future generations to carry the torch of advocacy for human rights, particularly for those who continue to seek refuge and safety in the UK.