Shabana Mahmood has pledged to vigorously defend the decision to revoke citizenship from ISIS recruit Shamima Begum.
The Home Secretary affirmed the government’s unwavering stance against a new legal challenge. Begum’s legal team argues that she was coerced into sexual exploitation at the age of 15. The European Court of Human Rights has requested clarification from the UK regarding this contentious action.
Responding to inquiries in Parliament, Mahmood emphasized that the case of Shamima Begum has been extensively litigated in the UK Supreme Court by the previous administration, and all legal avenues have been exhausted. The current government stands firm on this matter and will vigorously uphold its position at the European Court of Human Rights.
This statement followed a demand from the Tory Shadow Home Secretary for assurance that Begum will not be permitted to return, citing her support for the ISIS regime known for its atrocities.
Shamima Begum, a London native who ventured to ISIS-controlled territory as a schoolgirl, is contesting the decision to strip her of UK citizenship in 2019. The decision was made by former Tory Home Secretary Sajid Javid due to security concerns, as Begum had married an ISIS combatant and is now residing in a Syrian camp.
Her legal team challenges the decision under Article 4 of the European Convention on Human Rights, focusing on the prohibition of slavery and forced labor. Despite being denied an appeal by the UK Supreme Court, Strasbourg judges have raised inquiries about whether the UK authorities should have considered Begum a trafficking victim.
Gareth Peirce, Begum’s lawyer, highlighted the circumstances leading to her departure to ISIS territory, emphasizing failures in child protection and governmental duties.
Shamima Begum, currently 26 years old, journeyed to Syria with two school friends in 2015, both of whom are reported deceased. After marrying an ISIS member upon arrival, she gave birth to three children, all of whom have passed away.