Portrait of Boris Johnson
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Boris Johnson on Rwanda

Supports asylum deal (strong)

Boris Johnson was the Prime Minister responsible for initiating the UK's policy to send asylum seekers arriving via unofficial routes to Rwanda for processing and resettlement.

This policy, officially known as the Migration and Economic Development Partnership, was introduced during his premiership as a deterrent against dangerous Channel crossings.

Johnson's government strongly defended the plan against domestic and international criticism, asserting its necessity for controlling illegal migration and 'breaking the business model' of people smugglers.

Context

The plan to send asylum seekers to Rwanda was a significant part of Boris Johnson’s broader immigration policy as Prime Minister, especially following the UK's departure from the European Union. It was framed as necessary to fulfil a promise to gain full control over the UK's borders, aligning with the Brexit policy of controlling who comes to the country.

Johnson's government argued that this innovative approach was needed because previous methods, including cooperation with the EU, had failed to curb the flow of migrants crossing the Channel in small boats.

Actions Taken

  1. Policy Introduction
    Introduced a scheme to send people entering the UK illegally to Rwanda for asylum processing and resettlement.

Related Positions

  • Brexit The control over the asylum system, including the Rwanda plan, was presented as an outcome and key benefit of leaving the European Union.
  • Net Migration The plan was ostensibly designed to help Johnson meet his goal of reducing overall net migration figures below 250,000 per year.

Criticism

Human rights groups and opposition politicians

Criticised the policy for its ethical implications, cost, and the safety of sending vulnerable individuals to a third country like Rwanda.

Sources1

* This is not an exhaustive list of sources.