UK Court of Appeal Rules UK’s Rwanda Deportation Plan Unlawful
The UK Court of Appeal has overturned a high court decision and ruled that the UK government’s plan to deport some asylum-seekers to Rwanda deportation is unlawful. The controversial immigration policies implemented by the government have faced criticism from humanitarian bodies.
In a three-judge decision, the court found that sending asylum-seekers to Rwanda would violate the European Convention on Human Rights.
While the ruling does not comment on the political merits of the Rwanda policy. It signifies a major setback for the government’s initiative.
The Conservative government’s Rwanda deportation scheme aimed to send asylum-seekers who arrived in the UK illegally.
The program was part of an effort to tackle people-smuggling networks. And prevent dangerous journeys across the English Channel from France. Home Secretary Suella Braverman has been a vocal advocate of the policy, emphasizing the need to secure the UK’s borders.
Rwanda Deportation Human Rights Groups Welcome the Ruling
Human rights campaigners have applauded the court’s decision about Rwanda deportation, criticizing the Rwanda policy as unethical and ineffective.
Together with Refugees, a coalition of charities advocating for asylum-seekers’ rights, described the ruling as a significant victory.
The number of undocumented migrants entering Europe has increased significantly this year due to conflicts, global inequality, and the climate crisis, leading to a migrant crisis across the continent.
The UK government has been grappling with the issue and has seen a rise in small boat arrivals from France.
While the ruling does not render the policy illegal, it presents a political embarrassment for Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and his cabinet, considering the significant amount of money already provided to the Rwandan government for the scheme.
Sunak has made controlling migration a priority, and this setback may impact his electoral support. The government intends to seek permission to appeal the decision to the Supreme Court about Rwanda deportation.
