The Full Story of the Landmark Victory Against Rwanda Policy Published in Legal Action Magazine (12 December 2024)

Inside the Legal Battle That Reshaped UK Refugee and Human Rights Law

Legal Action magazine has published an incisive account of the dramatic legal battle against the UK government’s controversial Rwanda policy. Written by Toufique Hossain, the Public Law Director at Duncan Lewis Solicitors, the article provides a rare insider’s perspective on a case that has redefined refugee and human rights law in the UK.

Toufique, a leading figure in public and immigration law, led a coalition of solicitors, barristers, NGOs, and other organisations in mounting one of the most significant legal challenges in recent years. The case addressed the UK government’s 2022 policy of forcibly relocating asylum seekers crossing the English Channel to Rwanda for their claims to be processed.

The article delves into the monumental efforts to safeguard the rights of vulnerable refugees, including survivors of torture and individuals fleeing persecution, from being subjected to a policy now ruled unlawful by the Supreme Court. Toufique’s detailed narrative highlights the complex legal principles at stake, encompassing international refugee law, public law doctrines, and human rights protections under the European Convention.

Toufique pays tribute to the invaluable support of NGOs like Care4Calais and Detention Action, as well as the dedicated barristers who played pivotal roles in the case. He also reflects on the broader implications of the Supreme Court’s landmark ruling and the profound professional and personal challenges faced by his team amidst the intense political and public scrutiny surrounding the case.

This article serves as a testament to the dedication, resilience, and collaborative spirit of the legal professionals who championed justice for asylum seekers.

Read ‘How We Stopped the Flights’ in full here: https://www.lag.org.uk/article/216294/how-we-stopped-the-flights

Toufique Hossain – Legal Director, Public Law

Toufique Hossain is a widely respected Director of Public Law at Duncan Lewis Solicitors with over 20 years of experience in pioneering human rights and public law litigation. His practice focuses on challenging unlawful government practices and advocating for the disenfranchised. Among his many achievements, Toufique was the lead solicitor in the Supreme Court case that declared the government’s Rwanda policy unlawful.

Toufique’s exceptional contributions have earned him recognition as a leading individual in Legal 500 and Chambers and Partners. Notably, he is the only solicitor ranked as leading in all three Legal 500 categories: Immigration: Human Rights, Administrative and Public Law, and Civil Liberties and Human Rights.

In 2024, he received the Outstanding Achievement award at the Legal Aid Lawyer of the Year Awards, the highest accolade of the evening, celebrating his lifelong dedication to fighting for justice and his lasting impact on public law.

About Duncan Lewis Solicitors

Duncan Lewis Solicitors is a leading UK law firm, recognised for its excellence across a broad spectrum of legal services. Ranked Top Tier in Legal 500 and Chambers and Partners, the firm was named Law Firm of the Year at the LexisNexis Awards 2024, following its win in the same category at the Modern Law Awards 2023.

The firm’s Immigration and Public Law team is particularly renowned for handling complex and high-profile cases involving human rights and asylum seekers. With landmark successes in cases such as Brook House, the Rwanda Challenge, and Manston House, Duncan Lewis continues to provide unparalleled legal representation, ensuring justice for the most vulnerable.

About Legal Action Magazine

Legal Action is the monthly publication of the Legal Action Group, providing critical insights and updates on the latest developments in areas including human rights, immigration, public law, housing, and mental health. The magazine is an essential resource for practitioners and advocates dedicated to advancing justice and protecting the rights of marginalised communities.