Rwanda is seeking £50 million ($63.5 million) in compensation from the UK after Britain scrapped its controversial migrant deportation agreement. The demand comes amid growing tensions between the two countries, following the UK’s recent criticism of Rwanda’s alleged support for rebel groups in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The migrant relocation deal, initially introduced by former British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, aimed to send asylum seekers arriving in the UK to Rwanda. However, the plan faced widespread criticism from human rights groups and legal challenges before being officially canceled by current Prime Minister Keir Starmer. The program was estimated to cost the UK around £170,000 per migrant.
Rwanda had already received funding as part of the agreement, but officials now argue that the UK must compensate them further for canceling the deal. The British government, however, has not yet responded to Rwanda’s demand.
The cancellation of the agreement coincides with increasing diplomatic strain between the two nations, particularly after Britain condemned Rwanda for allegedly backing M23 rebels in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Rwanda has denied the accusations, but the issue has further complicated relations between the two countries.
As debates over asylum policies continue in the UK, the dispute with Rwanda adds another layer of complexity. It remains unclear whether Britain will agree to pay the compensation or if the matter will escalate into a larger diplomatic conflict.