GENEVA: UN human rights chief Volker Turk criticized Britain’s recent legislation proposing to send asylum seekers to Rwanda for processing, stating it undermines fundamental rights principles. The move, according to Turk, contradicts the rule of law and poses a significant threat to human rights.
The Safety of Rwanda (Asylum and Immigration) Bill, introduced by British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s government, aims to facilitate asylum seekers’ removal to Rwanda. However, this comes after the Supreme Court deemed such deportations illegal under international law. If passed, the legislation would compel British judges to consider Rwanda as a safe third country and grant government ministers’ authority to bypass sections of international and British human rights laws.
Turk said that this bill, seeking to shield government actions from legal scrutiny, directly undermines basic human rights principles. He urged the UK government to reassess the legislation, emphasizing the importance of upholding international legal obligations and maintaining the country’s history of independent judicial scrutiny.
The bill, aimed at curbing immigration, particularly irregular arrivals, has drawn criticism for its implications on justice. Turk highlighted concerns that the legislation would severely limit courts’ ability to review removal decisions and restrict the application of human rights laws and standards. Additionally, it raises issues regarding the selective implementation of legal protections, which Turk described as contrary to principles of impartial justice.
