Title: UK Signs New Treaty with Rwanda to Send Asylum Seekers in Bid to Reduce Migration
In a significant move towards reducing migration, the British Home Secretary, James Cleverly, has signed a new treaty with Rwanda to send asylum seekers to the African nation. The agreement was formally established during Cleverly’s visit to Rwanda’s capital, Kigali. Although specific details of the treaty are yet to be disclosed, it is believed to include commitments by Rwanda regarding the treatment of asylum-seekers and migrants.
Cleverly anticipates that migrants will begin arriving in Rwanda in the coming months. This initiative is closely watched by other countries contemplating similar policies as part of their strategies to tackle migration. However, it is important to note that the deportation scheme was previously declared unlawful by the UK Supreme Court due to concerns over potential violations of international human rights laws.
Efforts are underway to renegotiate the agreement with Rwanda in the form of a binding treaty that prevents the expulsion of asylum seekers sent there by Britain. Additionally, the two countries plan to establish a joint tribunal to ensure that deported individuals are not sent back to their home countries where they may face persecution or danger.
This contentious plan aims to deter migrants and refugees from attempting to cross the English Channel from Europe in small boats. As part of the agreement, Rwanda has already received an initial payment of £140 million ($180 million), with assurances of further funding for the accommodation and care of those deported from the UK.
The pressure to cut net migration and halt the flow of asylum seekers paying people smugglers for Channel crossings is mounting on Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. The UK government plans to pass emergency legislation in parliament, designating Rwanda as a safe country.
While the plan has drawn support from some quarters, it has also come under criticism from Human Rights Watch. The organization has urged the British government to consider Rwanda’s track record of human rights violations, particularly against refugees and asylum seekers.
As the agreement is implemented, it remains to be seen whether this novel approach to curbing migration will be successful in achieving its intended objectives, while also ensuring the protection of the rights of those seeking refuge.
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