UK Home Secretary revives controversial asylum plan during Rwanda visit

UK Home Secretary James Cleverly touched down in Rwanda on Tuesday. The visit aims to reignite discussions surrounding the relocation of asylum-seekers to the East African nation, a plan previously hindered by UK courts.

Scheduled to meet with Rwandan counterpart Vincent Biruta, Cleverly anticipates signing a renewed treaty and engaging in talks about the troubled “migration and economic development partnership.” The UK government emphasizes the importance of collaboration in addressing the global challenge of illegal migration.

At the heart of this initiative is the Conservative government’s commitment to thwarting unauthorized asylum-seekers arriving via small boats across the English Channel. A bilateral agreement in April 2022 paved the way for sending certain migrants to Rwanda, where their asylum claims would be processed. The UK government contends that such deportations will deter others from undertaking the perilous sea journey, disrupting the business model of human-smuggling networks.

Despite Britain having disbursed a minimum of £140 million ($177 million) to Rwanda under the agreement, legal challenges have prevented any actual deportations. Last month, the UK Supreme Court ruled the plan unlawful, citing concerns about Rwanda’s safety for refugees. The court highlighted the “real risk of ill-treatment” faced by asylum-seekers and the potential of their return to their home countries.

Critics argue the proposal is both ethically and logistically flawed, given the considerable distance—4,000 miles (6,400 kilometers)—between the UK and Rwanda. Allegations against Rwanda’s government, including stifling dissent and maintaining strict control, add to the skepticism.

Despite Rwanda’s denial of such claims, the UK government plans to address legal concerns through a new treaty, including preventing Rwanda from returning migrants, and subsequently, designating Rwanda as a safe destination through legislation.