This revised agreement, signed on December 5, 2023, followed the UK Supreme Court’s ruling against the planned deportation of migrants and asylum seekers to Rwanda.

Out of the 62 deputies present during the plenary session, an overwhelming 99% expressed support for the project, with 58 voting in favor, two against, and two votes invalidated.

MP Diogene Bitunguramye underscored Rwanda’s pivotal decision to collaborate with the UK, emphasizing its humanitarian dimensions, particularly in the realms of saving lives and upholding human rights.

Drawing reference to migrants from Libya who Rwanda has accommodated over time, many of whom have already resettled in host countries, Bitunguranye advocated for a similar approach for the new arrivals.

MP Clarisse Imaniriho viewed this cooperation as a beacon of hope, offering enhanced opportunities, especially for youth, who constitute 10% of the world’s refugees and migrants. She highlighted that newcomers would benefit from education and healthcare, reflecting Rwanda’s steadfast commitment to human rights and welfare.

Deputy Germaine Mukabalisa expressed pride in Rwanda’s proactive stance in addressing global issues through this project, underscoring the humanitarian ethos over legal obligations.

In contrast, Deputy Dr. Frank Habineza criticized the project, arguing that the larger and wealthier UK should shoulder these responsibilities instead of outsourcing them to Rwanda.

Deputy Uwamariya Odette shed light on the plight of refugees seeking asylum in Europe, particularly vulnerable women and children who often lack access to education and healthcare, areas where Rwanda aims to contribute.

Statistics from the United Nations Refugee Agency reveal a distressing figure of over 2,500 deaths or disappearances while attempting to cross the Mediterranean Sea in 2023, compared to 1,680 in 2022. This underscores the pressing need for safe and legal routes for asylum seekers.

Deputy Karemera Francis and Deputy Ntezimana Jean Claude expressed reservations about the financial implications of the UK-Rwanda agreement, suggesting that funds should be redirected to support migrants within the UK.

Minister of Justice Dr. Ugirashebuja Emmanuel emphasized that Rwanda’s motivation is not financial gain but rather a profound understanding of the refugee experience and a commitment to providing solutions grounded in humanity and respect for human rights.

In 2019, the Rwandan government, in collaboration with the African Union, the UN Refugee Agency, and other partners, initiated a program to assist migrants in dire conditions in Libya, awaiting passage to Europe.

Over 150 individuals have been trained to support and care for migrants relocated to Rwanda, with the country having already received over 2,000 migrants from Libya, with more than 68% successfully resettled in host countries.

Out of the 62 deputies present during the plenary session, an overwhelming 99% expressed support for the project, with 58 voting in favor, two against, and two votes invalidated.