The British Parliament has approved legislation to implement Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's plan to send migrants to Rwanda as a measure to deter risky English Channel crossings. The plan aims to address the increasing number of migrants crossing the Channel from France to the U.K. in small boats, reaching a high of 46,000 in 2022.
Under the plan, migrants arriving in the U.K. as stowaways or in boats will be sent to Rwanda for asylum processing. Despite facing legal challenges and court battles, the bill was passed, allowing the first flights to Rwanda to commence in July.
Key Aspects of the Rwanda Plan
The U.K. government's initiative with Rwanda seeks to process asylum claims of migrants in the East African country. Critics argue that sending migrants to Rwanda, a country thousands of miles away, is unethical and impractical.
Challenges Faced
The plan encountered legal hurdles, with the European Court of Human Rights ruling against the U.K.'s policy due to concerns about the safety of migrants in Rwanda. However, a treaty signed between Britain and Rwanda in December aimed to address these issues.
International Responses
Several countries, including Australia and Israel, have explored offshore processing of asylum seekers. Denmark is seeking a unified European solution to migration issues, emphasizing the need to combat human trafficking across the Mediterranean.
Conclusion
While the U.K.'s Rwanda plan has faced opposition, the government remains committed to its implementation. The global challenge of irregular migration continues to prompt countries to explore various strategies to manage refugee flows.
For more on global migration coverage, visit AP's migration hub.
