The Brief No. 23
15 April 2022
Britain to fly asylum seekers to Rwanda to prevent illegal sea crossings.
There has been mixed reactions to the news that illegal immigrants and asylum seekers from Britain will henceforth be transferred to Rwanda.
Many have called the latest decision cruel. Rwanda is criticised for its human rights record. There are fears that illegal immigrants could face harsh treatment in Rwanda.
Others have scoffed the decision, referring to the “prospect of being sent to Rwanda as the ultimate punishment”.
However there are some benefits for Rwanda in this agreement:
Rwanda hopes this could alter its human rights image.
The country also hopes to make money from this agreement. For an example, Facility for Refugees in Turkey (FRiT) manages a total of €6 billion in humanitarian assistance, education, health, municipal infrastructure, and socio-economic support for Syrians Under Temporary Protection in Turkey. Rwanda will be receiving $160 Million in aid and assistance from the Britain as a result of this agreement.
Rwanda also hopes to absorb skilled immigrants to augment its skills pool.
Afrasid is available for commentary and analysis