Kemi Badenoch has justified the decision to withdraw the UK from the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) by highlighting non-European countries that are not part of the agreement.
During the Conservative party conference, the Tory leader announced intentions to exit the international treaty if they secure victory in the upcoming election to control immigration, sparking a strong reaction. Defending the move, Ms. Badenoch emphasized the necessity of safeguarding borders, veterans, and citizens.
In an interview with Laura Kuenssberg on BBC’s Sunday program, she was questioned about aligning the UK with Russia and Belarus in exiting the ECHR. Responding, Ms. Badenoch pointed out several countries outside Europe that are not signatories to the convention.
She stated, “Countries like the United States, Australia, and Canada are not part of that agreement. Membership in the convention is not a prerequisite for upholding human rights, as our rights existed long before the ECHR and the Human Rights Act.”
The ECHR guarantees fundamental rights such as the right to life, liberty, a fair trial, respect for privacy and family life, freedom of expression and assembly, and freedom of religion. It also prohibits torture, cruel or degrading treatment, slavery, and discrimination.
A source from the Labour party ridiculed the comments, referencing a recent Brexit mistake made by Ms. Badenoch during a TV interview where she wrongly claimed that Northern Ireland voted to leave the EU.
The policy forms part of a border strategy that includes a tough stance on immigration reminiscent of Donald Trump’s approach, supported by a proposed “removals force” modeled after the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency.
The Conservative party aims to deport 750,000 individuals during the next Parliament, exceeding the 600,000 target set by Reform UK’s plan for “mass deportation” announced earlier in the year.