Lebanese Forces Leader Calls for Deportation of Illegal Refugees, Citing UK Policy

Samir Geagea, the leader of the Lebanese Forces party, has called on the Lebanese government to follow Britain's controversial policy of deporting illegal refugees to Rwanda. The UK recently passed the 'Safety of Rwanda (Asylum and Immigration) Act 2024', which allows the deportation of illegal immigrants, even if they are legitimate refugees, to the East African nation.

The British government has already paid £240 million to Rwanda and estimates the scheme could cost up to £150,000 per person deported. The bill faced criticism for potentially violating human rights, as Rwanda has a poor human rights record. It was rushed through parliament before the upcoming UK general election, with the opposition Labour Party planning in polls.

Rwanda says it is ready to receive the migrants, having prepared the Hope Hostel in Kigali to accommodate them. The facility previously housed students whose parents died in the 1994 Rwandan genocide. The Rwandan government will bear the full financial and other responsibilities for the migrants for the first five years, after which they will be considered integrated into Rwandan society.

Why this matters: The UK's deportation policy has sparked global debate about the treatment of refugees and asylum seekers. Other countries considering similar measures, like Lebanon, are closely watching the outcome and international response to Britain's approach.

Despite the controversy and condemnation by human rights groups as inhumane, the British government plans to proceed with the deportations. The first flight is expected to leave in 10-12 weeks. The UK Supreme Court previously ruled that Rwanda cannot be considered a safe country for deportations, but the new act passed by parliament overrides that decision by designating Rwanda as safe.

Key Takeaways

• UK passed law allowing deportation of illegal immigrants to Rwanda.
• UK paid £240M to Rwanda, estimates £150K per deportee, faces criticism.
• Rwanda prepared 'Hope Hostel' to accommodate deported migrants.
• UK's policy sparks global debate on refugee treatment, other countries watching.
• UK Supreme Court ruled Rwanda unsafe, but new law overrides that decision.