LONDON (AP) — The British Parliament has finally passed legislation to send some migrants to Rwanda, clearing the runway for flights this summer under Prime Minister Rishi Sunak ’s controversial plan aimed at deterring risky English Channel crossings by people desperate to reach the U.K.
A bill designed to unblock a plan beset by court challenges and legislative battles was approved early Tuesday, delivering what Sunak hopes will be a much-needed political victory and fulfill his pledge to “stop the boats.”
Human rights activists and migrants’ groups have vowed to continue the fight against the policy, which they say is unethical and inhumane.
Here’s a look at the plan and what it took to reach this stage.
The Rwanda plan is the British government’s response to the growing number of migrants from around the world — reaching a high of 46,000 in 2022 — who cross the English Channel from France to Britain in small boats.
Judge orders man accused of opening fire outside Wrigley Field held without bail
Chinese premier holds symposium with overseas buyers at Canton Fair
Michael Jackson's iconic sequined 'Billie Jean' jacket
9 people going on trial over an alleged far
Defending champion South Carolina to open season in Las Vegas against Michigan
Macao further eases inbound travel restrictions
China prepares to launch Shenzhou
Kenya floods: Rescue works underway as death toll nears 100
Rays opening day starter Zach Eflin placed on 15
James Corden reunites with his Gavin & Stacey co