The Finnish government's crackdown on immigration has led to a sharp rise in deportations, raising fears among undocumented migrants who could face dangerous situations in their home countries.

At a Helsinki day centre called "Toivon talo", or "House of Hope", where undocumented non-European migrants can get legal, social and medical help, people chat while enjoying the free lunch served most days.

The centre, run by a Christian organisation and volunteers, provides help to people who in most cases are staying in Finland illegally after their asylum applications have been rejected, or their residence permits or visas have expired or been turned down.

"My situation is very, very, very difficult," a Moroccan woman in her fifties told AFP, requesting to remain anonymous.

A social services

See Full Page