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DR Congo Woman Wins Citizenship After 18-Year Fight

12/15/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A woman from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, who fled rape and torture 18 years ago, won British citizenship after a government reversal.
Her application was denied because she entered illegally.
The Home Office's policy to refuse citizenship for those who arrive illegally could affect 71,000 refugees.
The woman has three British children and no criminal record.
Her lawyer criticized the initial refusal, citing her good character.

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Story summary

A woman from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, who fled rape and torture 18 years ago, won British citizenship after a government reversal.
Her application was denied because she entered illegally.
The Home Office's policy to refuse citizenship for those who arrive illegally could affect 71,000 refugees.
The woman has three British children and no criminal record.
Her lawyer criticized the initial refusal, citing her good character.