Response to the Rwanda Bill and Reports of Asylum Seekers Being Detained
The latest in the government’s cruel approach how they treat asylum seekers has culminated in their plan to offshore their responsibility for providing a fair and just asylum process to a third country, Rwanda.
Upbeat Communities believes that this is an abandonment of the UK’s responsibility to protect those seeking safety, as signatories of the Refugee Convention. We also do not believe Rwanda is a country that can guarantee the safety and appropriate care of those seeking sanctuary. In fact, the UK government has recently granted refugee status to individuals fleeing Rwanda.
We have now heard that the government is beginning to ramp up its efforts to detain and remove vulnerable asylum seekers to Rwanda. We are saddened and angered by this, and many of our friends seeking sanctuary are terrified.
Whilst there is not much we are able to do, we wanted to create a space to share helpful resources. Below are some ways you can take action to stand against this Bill and advocate for our asylum seeker friends in Derby.
How to Take Action:
Sign this petition calling for the UK government to halt flights to Rwanda, and share with those you know.
Keep an eye out for local campaigns and demonstrations you could be a part of. Asylum Matters have a campaigning resources page on their website that is frequently updated, as well as some helpful advice for campaigning during an election year.
Resources
Right to Remain’s website — for an overview of the Bill and what it means, as well as helpful information for anyone at risk of, or in, detention.
Care4Calais’ guide — for information to help those who have received a letter from the Home Office that mentions Rwanda, or Notice of Intent.
The JCWI’s guide — for information for asylum seekers at risk of being detained or deported to Rwanda, and for further resources on how to take action.
Please visit our webpage for asylum seekers at risk of being detained for more helpful resources aimed at this group of people.
This page was last updated on 17th May 2024.
We will continue to update this webpage as and when we receive accurate and relevant information. Please share anything you find useful with others who can take action, or with asylum seekers you know who need support.