Tens of thousands of refused asylum seekers in the UK are now at risk of being forcibly removed to Rwanda, according to a Home Office announcement. The UK and Rwandan governments have extended their agreement to include those whose asylum claims have been rejected. Critics argue this move will drive asylum seekers underground.
Operation Vector has already seen some refused asylum seekers detained in preparation for deportation within the next seven to nine weeks. These individuals will not have their asylum claims processed in Rwanda but will receive residency and a five-year support package.
In 2023, 24,310 asylum claims were refused and 24,027 were withdrawn, all of whom are now eligible for relocation to Rwanda. This policy shift includes refused asylum seekers from conflict zones like Syria and Afghanistan.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has maintained that the Rwanda policy aims to deter small boat arrivals. However, this extension marks a significant departure from the original policy, now encompassing those who did not arrive by boat.
Legal experts and advocacy groups have condemned the new agreement. Zoe Bantleman of the Immigration Law Practitioners’ Association warned it would cause unnecessary panic. Charlotte Khan from Care4Calais questioned the policy’s deterrent effect.
Home Secretary James Cleverly stated that those without the right to remain in the UK should not stay and confirmed ongoing efforts to ensure regular deportation flights to Rwanda.
