Concerns Over UK-Rwanda Asylum Partnership
Independent UN experts have raised concerns regarding the potential involvement of airlines and aviation authorities in the involuntary transfer of asylum seekers from the United Kingdom to Rwanda under the UK-Rwanda Asylum Partnership and the proposed “Safety of Rwanda” bill.
Background
Two years ago, the UK introduced the Migration and Economic Development Partnership (MEDP), now known as the UK-Rwanda Asylum Partnership, which outlined the transfer of asylum seekers to Rwanda for assessment of their need for international protection.
Recent Developments
In response to safety concerns in Rwanda, the UK Supreme Court deemed the initial policy unlawful. Subsequently, the UK and Rwanda have collaborated on the “Safety of Rwanda” bill, designating Rwanda as a safe country and setting forth new provisions.
Risk of Refoulement
UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is pushing for the bill’s approval, with reports indicating that the first flight carrying asylum seekers could depart within the next 10 to 12 weeks. However, UN Special Rapporteurs have cautioned that such transfers could expose airlines and aviation authorities to the risk of refoulement, violating the right to protection from torture or other forms of harm.
The experts emphasized that airlines and aviation regulators could potentially breach international human rights standards and court rulings by facilitating transfers to Rwanda, even if the agreements and legislation are ratified.
Responsibilities and Reminders
The UN experts have engaged with the UK Government and various aviation regulatory bodies at national, European, and international levels to underscore their obligations, including those outlined in the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights.
It is important to note that the UN Human Rights Council appoints Special Rapporteurs to independently monitor and report on global issues, operating in their individual capacity and free from government influence or compensation.
