Human Rights Groups urge France to Halt UK Immigration Treaty
Paris, France – leading human rights organizations are calling on France to suspend its “one in, one out” treaty with the United Kingdom, arguing the agreement violates international law and endangers asylum seekers. The treaty, designed to reduce the number of small boats crossing the English Channel, allows the UK to request France accept asylum seekers who arrive in Britain, offsetting those France receives.
Critics contend the policy externalizes the UK’s asylum obligations, placing undue burden on France and potentially leaving vulnerable individuals without adequate protection. The calls for suspension come amid growing concerns over the conditions faced by migrants attempting to cross the Channel and the broader implications for international refugee law. The agreement, signed in March 2023, has seen limited implementation but remains a point of contention as the UK government pursues its controversial policy of deterring irregular migration.
Several organizations,including Amnesty international France and the Human Rights Legal Network,have voiced strong opposition,citing concerns about the lack of due process and the potential for refoulement – the return of individuals to a country where thay face persecution. They argue the treaty fails to guarantee fair and effective asylum procedures for those transferred from the UK.
“This ‘one in,one out’ arrangement is a risky attempt to shirk obligation for protecting those seeking refuge,” said Camille Stoll,a legal officer with Amnesty International france. “It risks creating a system where asylum claims are processed based on political calculations rather than individual need, and it undermines the essential principles of international law.”
The UK government maintains the treaty is a legitimate measure to combat illegal immigration and disrupt the business model of human traffickers. However, human rights advocates argue that addressing the root causes of migration and providing safe and legal routes for asylum seekers are more effective and humane solutions.
The debate over the treaty is unfolding against a backdrop of increasing tensions between the UK and France over migration policy. France has repeatedly expressed concerns about the UK’s approach, particularly the plan to send asylum seekers to Rwanda, which has also faced legal challenges.The future of the “one in, one out” agreement remains uncertain, with human rights groups vowing to continue their legal and advocacy efforts to ensure the protection of asylum seekers’ rights.
