Originally formulated to address the influx of migrants entering the UK unlawfully, the agreement underwent revision on December 5, 2023, in response to deficiencies highlighted by the Supreme Court of England.
For execution, the agreement necessitates approval from both nations to attain the status of law, ensuring adherence to international legal frameworks.
According to the agreement’s provisions, the UK commits to transferring 10,000 migrants to Rwanda in phased increments.
Minister Ugirashebuja, in elucidating the foundational aspects of the associated bill, informed Parliament on February 23, 2024, that Rwanda anticipates receiving 2000 immigrants within the initial four-month period post-approval.
He articulated, “Rwanda plans to receive 2000 migrants within the first four months following the agreement’s mutual ratification.”
The agreement specifically targets migrants and asylum seekers who have entered the UK unlawfully. However, stringent criteria are set to exclude individuals from neighboring countries such as Burundi, Uganda, DRC, and Tanzania from the relocation process.
It is imperative to note that Ukrainian refugees are not encompassed within this program. Instead, the focus lies on individuals arriving via precarious means like boats, human trafficking, or other illegal channels.
In alignment with both Rwandan domestic laws and international conventions safeguarding children’s rights, individuals below the age of 18 are classified as minors. Consequently, unaccompanied minors are exempted from deportation to Rwanda under this agreement.
Minister Ugirashebuja underscored, “Unaccompanied minors arriving in the UK will not be subject to deportation to Rwanda. Such cases will be addressed within the UK.”
Initially slated for June 2022, the commencement of the relocation process faced delays attributed to legal challenges and concerns raised by the United Nations Refugee Agency regarding Rwanda’s safety as a destination for migrants.
Subsequently, legal shortcomings identified by the UK Supreme Court prompted a renegotiation of the contract, culminating in its renewal by both parties in December 2023.
To mitigate apprehensions regarding safety and welfare, 11 operational protocols have been established, accompanied by comprehensive training for 151 personnel tasked with receiving and supporting incoming migrants from the UK.
A portion of the financial aid provided by Britain is earmarked for constructing accommodations for the incoming migrants. Additionally, preparations include identifying suitable facilities, such as houses, hotels, and hostels, for temporary lodging upon arrival.
Minister Ugirashebuja affirmed the commitment to adhering to international legal standards, assuring migrants of their safety and protection against arbitrary deportation.
He elaborated, “A dedicated coordination group has meticulously planned every aspect to ensure optimal reception. Temporary accommodations have been arranged, with discussions held with facility owners. Our aim is to foster integration within society, not confining migrants to camps.”
Rwanda’s involvement in this agreement transcends monetary considerations, emphasizing the humanitarian imperative of addressing global migrant challenges.
Minister Ugirashebuja asserted, “Our ethos prioritizes human dignity over financial gain. Rwanda views itself as part of the solution to the global migrant crisis, striving to ensure dignified living conditions in line with human rights.”
On Rwanda’s legislative front, the draft law endorsing the agreement has garnered majority support and awaits deliberation across parliamentary committees before final approval by the general assembly of Deputies.
While the precise timeline for the inaugural migrant transfer remains undisclosed, officials from both nations express confidence in its eventual realization.
The United Kingdom views this initiative as a strategic measure to mitigate illegal migrant influxes, with other countries contemplating similar approaches to address the burgeoning global migrant crisis.
Statistics indicate a notable decline of 30% in illegal migrant arrivals to the UK in 2023, from 45,755 to 29,437, underscoring the potential efficacy of collaborative strategies in managing migration challenges.
