In a significant development in Britain’s immigration policy, the country has initiated its first voluntary asylum relocation to Rwanda, as reported by The Sun Newspaper on Tuesday. The unnamed migrant was reportedly flown out of the country on Monday under this voluntary scheme, marking a pivotal moment in Britain’s efforts to manage its asylum system.
This voluntary initiative operates independently from a forthcoming forced deportation programme aimed at deterring asylum seekers from crossing the English Channel via small boats to reach Britain. Under the voluntary scheme, asylum seekers are offered financial incentives of up to £3,000 ($3,747.60) each to relocate to Rwanda, contributing to the clearance of the backlog of refugees who have arrived in Britain in recent years.
While Britain has an existing policy of offering financial assistance to asylum seekers who voluntarily leave the country for their home country, the agreement with Rwanda represents a new phase, whereby individuals receive financial support in exchange for resettling in Rwanda.
A government spokesperson emphasized that this migration and economic development partnership allows individuals without immigration status in the UK to be relocated to a safe third country, where they will receive support to rebuild their lives.
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The decision to send asylum seekers to Rwanda is part of the government’s strategy to address the influx of migrants arriving in Britain via small boats since 2018. Despite facing legal and political obstacles, the government has persisted in its efforts to implement this policy, viewing it as a deterrent to irregular migration. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak anticipates that the first deportation flights to Rwanda will commence within the next 10 to 12 weeks.
However, the move has not been without controversy. Reports have surfaced indicating protests outside immigration processing centers, where activists are advocating against forced removals.
According to a British government document released on Monday, the initial group of asylum seekers slated for deportation to Rwanda comprises approximately 5,700 individuals, with Rwanda agreeing in principle to accept them. However, logistical challenges may limit the immediate detention and deportation of this entire group.
Under the forced deportation scheme, individuals who have arrived in Britain illegally after January 1, 2022, are eligible for deportation to Rwanda. With over 50,000 arrivals since that date, according to official figures, the deportation programme represents a significant aspect of Britain’s evolving immigration policy.
As Britain navigates the complexities of asylum and migration, the voluntary relocation to Rwanda underscores the government’s commitment to managing migration flows and addressing the challenges posed by irregular arrivals.
