Shabana Mahmood is determined to vigorously defend the decision to revoke citizenship from Shamima Begum, a former ISIS bride. The Home Secretary affirmed that the government will stand firm against a new legal challenge. Begum’s legal team argues that she was coerced and manipulated for sexual exploitation at the age of 15. The European Court of Human Rights has sought clarification from the UK regarding this contentious action.
Addressing the matter in Parliament, Mahmood assured MPs that the case of Shamima Begum had already been extensively debated through the court system, including the UK Supreme Court. She emphasized the government’s unwavering stance on the issue and its commitment to defending the decision at the European Court of Human Rights.
In response to a demand from the Conservative Shadow Home Secretary, who opposed Begum’s potential return, it was highlighted that Begum had supported the ISIS regime, known for heinous acts including civilian killings and sexual violence. Begum, a London native who journeyed to ISIS-held territory as a schoolgirl, has been contesting the citizenship revocation since February 2019.
The decision to strip Begum of her UK citizenship was made by former Tory Home Secretary Sajid Javid due to concerns about national security, especially after her association with an ISIS fighter. Begum, currently residing in a Syrian camp, is challenging the decision under the European Convention on Human Rights, particularly focusing on the prohibition of slavery and forced labor.
Inquiries from judges in Strasbourg have prompted the Home Office to reconsider if Begum was a victim of trafficking. Her legal representative, Gareth Peirce, highlighted the circumstances that led to her departure to ISIS territory, emphasizing the failures in protecting a vulnerable child. Begum, now 26, traveled to Syria with two school friends in 2015, both of whom are reported deceased.
Following her arrival in Syria, Begum married an ISIS recruit and subsequently gave birth to three children, all of whom have passed away.