Controversial Rwanda bill sparks Glasgow protest

Protesters took to George Square last night to demonstrate against the controversial Rwanda deportation legislation.

Trade unions and activist groups from across Glasgow came out in force to oppose The Safety of Rwanda (Asylum and Immigration) Bill, which will become law this evening following a stamp of approval from the monarchy.

The bill, which will see some asylum seekers sent to the Republic of Rwanda in a bid to deter unlawful and unsafe migration to the UK, has been heavily criticised by human rights campaigners for the impact it will have on asylum communities throughout the country.

Pinar Aksu, Human Rights and Advocacy coordinator for the Maryhill Integration Network, called the ability of the government to pass such a law “worrying”.

She said: “Unfortunately on a daily basis, people are losing their lives; whether this is at the border, in the sea or in our communities.

“I think policies like the Rwanda bill violate the law and violate our human rights – they create pathways to exploitation. That’s something we’re really worried about, because essentially this bill is ending the right to claim asylum.”

Around 100 people attended the city centre gathering despite details being released so close to its 6pm start time.

Director of the Afghan Human Rights Foundation, Mohammad Asif, was speaking at the event and was racially abused by a passer-by.

Mr Asif discussed the prejudiced he and his family have been subjected to since moving to Scotland 24 years ago, including a bomb threat from a neighbour.

He said: “This is my home. I’m contributing, my family’s living here. My children are working for the NHS right now, contributing massively to society and the communities in this country.

“This is why, when you have a government who are inciting racism and people who are telling you you’re not welcome here, it feels like you have nowhere to go.

“My country, along with Syria, Iraq, Lebanon, Palestine and many other countries, was bombed by Britain.

“If any refugee comes to this country today, they will not be allowed to stay and will be sent to Rwanda instead.”

Glasgow City Council officials did not respond to requests for comment.