The Parliament has approved the government’s plans to deport asylum seekers to Rwanda amidst widespread criticism, particularly concerning Rwanda’s human rights record.
Following a lengthy debate that extended into the night, the law was passed, with expectations that King Charles will soon ratify it.
British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has pledged to deport the first group of asylum seekers within 12 weeks. Notably, these deportations target individuals who are still in the process of applying for asylum, rather than illegal migrants or refugees.
Previously, the law had faced obstacles, as a judge halted its progress due to concerns over the safety of Rwanda as a destination. Moreover, the British House of Lords repeatedly sent the law back to the House of Commons for revisions.
In April 2022, the UK and Rwanda reached an agreement whereby Rwanda would accept asylum seekers without valid residence permits from the UK, particularly unaccompanied men who arrived after January 1, 2022, often crossing the Channel by boat. In exchange, Rwanda would receive significant financial compensation from the UK.
The British government, led by Prime Minister Boris Johnson at the time, initiated the Rwanda plan two years ago. Despite initial resistance, particularly regarding Rwanda’s safety as a destination, Prime Minister Sunak has championed the deal, making it a focal point of his policies.
The revised version of the plan addresses some of the concerns raised by the Supreme Court, notably prohibiting Rwanda from further transferring asylum seekers to third countries.
However, criticism of the plan persists, primarily due to Rwanda’s human rights record. Human rights organizations and asylum seekers have repeatedly challenged the plan, resulting in legal interventions that temporarily halted deportation flights.
Despite a recent ruling by the London Court of Appeal allowing the UK to proceed with deportations to Rwanda, further legal challenges are expected.
