UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced a deal with Rwanda to send some asylum-seekers to the African country. Less than a year ago the UK government condemned Rwanda for its failures to protect survivors of human trafficking.

Many have condemned Johnson’s plan as inhumane and a waste of public money. Opposition politicians say this is a cruel attempt to distract attention from Johnson’s domestic scandals. Johnson is resisting calls for his resignation after being fined for his office holding parties in breach of his government’s mandates.

“Anyone entering the U.K. illegally … may now be relocated to Rwanda,” Johnson said in a speech to troops. Johnson acknowledged the plan would inevitably face legal challenges and would not take effect immediately.

The Rwandan government said they are receiving $158 million up front for the five year deal to pay for housing and integrating the migrants. 

Image adapted from: “Refugees welcome” by Matt Brown is licensed under CC BY 2.0