UK interior minister to discuss migrant deal in Rwanda visit

British interior minister Suella Braverman visited Rwanda to discuss the agreement made with the British government to relocate migrants who sought to enter the United Kingdom claiming asylum. Braverman doubled down on the controversial agreement that has since been challenged in the courts.

During the Rwanda visit on Saturday, Braverman met with Rwandan foreign minister Vincent Biruta, telling reporters in Kgali that she agreed to provide additional support for the people that would be relocated from the UK. The deal on migrants with Rwanda is a key part of the UK’s plans to detain and deport asylum seekers who cross the English Channel on small boats.

“Many countries around the world are grappling with unprecedented numbers of illegal migrants and I sincerely believe that this world-leading partnership…is both humanitarian and compassionate and also fair and balanced,” said Braverman in a news conference with Biruta.

The $146 million agreement between Rwanda and the UK was made last year. There are no deportation flights taking place as those who oppose the deal are challenging the law in the courts.

Biruta said the proposals would “offer better opportunities for migrants and Rwandans alike” and that the deal would help with the British government’s aim of combating human trafficking networks. Braverman met with Rwandan President Paul Kagame on Sunday.

Back in December, the high court in London ruled that the policy was lawful. However, the court’s judges noted that the British government failed to consider the individual circumstances of the migrants that it sought to deport. Those challenging the law are filing an appeal to the verdict in April and may go to the British Supreme Court later this year.

Should the policy be upheld by the courts, asylum seekers would need to present their claims in Rwanda. Those who are not granted asylum in Rwanda would be able to apply to stay on other grounds or get resettled in another country.

Last week, a report by Reuters found the UK tendered a contract to transport migrants to partner countries, including Rwanda, worth over $94 million. The tender, dated March 8, is for the “contract for the provision of in-country and overseas escorting services in relation to Migration and Economic Development Partnerships and other immigration services.”

The value of the agreement is over $94 million for a span of three years.