The UK scheme, which has costed the government £140m so far, has not started deporting refugees yet, but is still expected to cause the same “unconscionable and abhorrent” consequences. Although the scheme was found ‘lawful’ by two senior judges in the High Court last year, the appeal is being brought by refugees from countries including Syria and Iraq, and from Asylum Aid. In March earlier this year, a further appeal was also permitted, allowing asylum seekers to challenge the high court for its failure to recognise the dangers asylum seekers may face if sent to Rwanda. The UNHCR, United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, provided caution and warning regarding Rwanda’s poor systems of safeguarding refugees. Despite the heavy criticism of the Rwanda scheme by medical bodies, human rights organisations and international bodies, the government guarantees that once legal proceedings have ended, the plan will go ahead.

Source: The Guardian April 25, 2023 20:05 UTC