Sent to Rwanda: The Controversial Law and the Risks for Migrants’ Safety

On Tuesday, the British Parliament approved a controversial law that allows asylum seekers to be sent to Rwanda to await a decision on their applications. The country has received criticism from the UN and EU for its human rights record and lack of safety for migrants. Retired crime commissioner Thomas Elfgren, who has close ties to Rwanda, supports the idea of sending asylum seekers to the country. He believes that Rwanda has made significant progress since the 1994 genocide and is now a safe place for asylum seekers.

However, Elfgren also raises concerns about the British model, particularly in terms of its cost and the risks associated with wrong decisions. He questions whether Rwanda would be able to handle a growing number of immigrants and whether the system could potentially violate international asylum laws. Elfgren suggests that the focus should be on addressing the root causes of migration, such as social and economic inequality and climate issues.

While Elfgren acknowledges that more consideration should be given to alternative methods for addressing migration, he emphasizes that resources should not be used in ways that violate international asylum laws or compromise the safety of migrants. He believes that a comprehensive approach is needed to address the challenges of migration and create safer pathways for those seeking asylum.

The Finnish government also supports outsourcing parts of Europe’s refugee system but Elfgren warns against this move without proper consideration of its implications. He questions whether it is an effective solution for reducing human trafficking or providing adequate support for refugees.

In conclusion, while there are valid concerns about outsourcing part of Europe’s refugee system to Rwanda, it is important to recognize that efforts must be made to uphold international asylum laws and protect migrant rights. A comprehensive approach is needed that addresses both immediate needs and long-term solutions to ensure safe pathways for those seeking refugee status.