Following a protracted parliamentary struggle, the UK government’s contentious asylum seeker deportation plan to Rwanda has been approved. The legislation will require courts to consider Rwanda a safe third country for assessing asylum applications, a move that has drawn criticism from human rights organizations and opposition members.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and his Conservative government have steadfastly pursued this legislation, asserting that it will deter people from making perilous journeys across the English Channel in small boats. However, critics argue that the plan is inhumane and violates international law, as Rwanda has a questionable human rights record.
The debate in Parliament was protracted and contentious, with the opposition Labour Party and other opposition groups vehemently opposing the legislation. Labour’s Deputy Leader, Angela Rayner, branded the plan “heartless” and “immoral,” while Liberal Democrat Leader Ed Davey labeled it “cruel and inhumane.”
Despite the objections, the government managed to secure enough votes to pass the legislation, with the support of its Conservative majority. The legislation is expected to face legal challenges, with critics intending to mount a legal battle against the government’s plan.
The approval of this legislation marks a significant step in the UK government’s efforts to deter asylum seekers from crossing the Channel. However, it is likely to remain a contentious issue, with significant opposition from human rights organizations and legal challenges expected.
