“We Thought the Rwanda Scheme Was the Worst of It” – Enver Solomon’s Exit Interview
In the turbulent landscape of UK immigration policy, few voices have been as steadfast as Enver Solomon’s. As the outgoing CEO of the Refugee Council, Solomon spent years advocating for asylum seekers, clashing with a government intent on hardening borders. In a candid interview, he reveals even he underestimated how far the UK’s approach could fall.
“We thought the Rwanda scheme was the worst of it,” Solomon told NextMinuteNews, referencing the controversial deportation policy mired in legal challenges. “But the last year proved the government is willing to undermine sanctuary itself.”
A Legacy of Fighting Hostile Policies
Solomon’s tenure (2017–2024) coincided with the UK’s most aggressive anti-refugee measures in decades—from the hostile environment to the Nationality and Borders Act. His organization fought tirelessly, but the battles grew harder.
“The rhetoric is more toxic, the policies more extreme,” he says. “We’ve shifted from debating how to support refugees to how to exclude them entirely.”
The 2022 Rwanda scheme marked a turning point, but Solomon argues the Illegal Migration Act was worse: “Rwanda was at least challengeable in court. This Act bans asylum for most irregular arrivals, rejecting the Refugee Convention outright.”
Why Solomon Is Stepping Down
His departure comes as the UK approaches a pivotal election. While he denies surrendering, Solomon admits the emotional toll: “Repeating ‘This is inhumane’ while policies advance wears you down.”
Yet he insists the Refugee Council’s mission is critical: “Fresh leadership is needed for what’s next.”
The Future of UK Refugee Policy
With Rwanda stalled and the Illegal Migration Act facing legal fights, uncertainty looms. Solomon warns:
- No quick fixes: Even a Labour win won’t undo years of “poisoned” rhetoric overnight.
- Harder fights ahead: The government ignores public opinion and legal hurdles.
A Final Appeal
Solomon’s parting message: “Refugees are people fleeing horrors—not political pawns. History will judge us by our humanity.”
As he steps aside, one question lingers: Who will lead the next fight?
— NextMinuteNews
