Britain’s Supreme Court is set to make a ruling on Wednesday regarding the legality of the government’s policy to deport asylum seekers to Rwanda. This decision holds significant importance for the ruling Conservative Party, as they navigate a tumultuous week. The controversial Rwanda policy was first introduced in April 2022 by Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who aimed to fulfill his Brexit campaign promise to regain control of the country’s borders. Subsequently, Liz Truss and Rishi Sunak, Johnson’s successors, have continued to pursue this hard-line policy, arguing that the threat of deportation to Rwanda would deter the thousands of people attempting to cross the English Channel in small boats each year. However, this policy has faced widespread criticism from human rights groups and opposition politicians due to Rwanda’s problematic track record on human rights. Additionally, legal challenges have prevented anyone from being deported to Rwanda thus far. The Supreme Court case comes after a series of rulings, with the High Court previously ruling in favor of the government, stating that the Rwanda plan was legally sound and aligned with obligations set by Parliament. However, the Court of Appeal later determined that Rwanda was not a safe third country and highlighted the risk of returning asylum seekers to their home countries where they may face persecution or inhumane treatment. This ruling was seen as a violation of the European Convention of Human Rights. Last month, the Supreme Court heard arguments from the government and opponents of the plan before making their decision. The outcome of the ruling is anticipated while the Conservative Party faces political turmoil, having recently dismissed the Home Secretary, Suella Braverman. Braverman was a strong advocate for the deportation plan and had expressed her desire to see asylum seekers sent to Rwanda. Her successor, James Cleverly, will now oversee the response to the Supreme Court decision. The possibility of withdrawing from the European Convention on Human Rights has been raised, particularly if the Supreme Court rules against the government. Despite the ruling, the affected asylum seekers may still have the option to take their case to the European Court of Human Rights. The government’s ability to implement the policy will also face practical challenges, as Rwanda’s asylum system can only accommodate a small percentage of those who have arrived in Britain this year.
