Sheikh Hasina May Head To UAE, Finland, Or US As UK Hesitates On Asylum

Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has fled Dhaka and arrived in Delhi, seeking asylum. It was reported that she may head to London or any other European Country. Meanwhile, the United Kingdom is unlikely to grant her request. She is exploring options with other nations such as the UAE and Saudi Arabia, as well as countries where her immediate family resides: the U.S., U.K., and Finland.

UK's Stance on Asylum

UK officials have clarified that there is no provision for individuals outside the UK to claim asylum or temporary refuge. They did not comment on whether Ms. Hasina has applied for a regular visa to the UK. Her hopes of going to the UK were further diminished when UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy issued a statement on Bangladesh without mentioning Ms. Hasina or her request.

The UK government is wary of pressure from rival party loyalists and accusations of human rights violations against Ms. Hasina. This makes it challenging for her to secure asylum in the UK.

Exploring Other Options

Ms. Hasina's next potential destination could be Helsinki, where her sister's son resides. She also has a son living in the US, though her relationship with the Biden administration has been tense.

Staying in India would be complicated for the Indian government to justify, but New Delhi will host her pending acceptance in another country she hopes to travel to.

Ms. Hasina continues discussions with various countries, including those in the Middle East and where her family members live, hoping one will accept her asylum request.