• Recent refugees holding and standing on a wire fence
    Refugee Rights Reports

    The Resilience and Contributions of Recent Refugees

    May 16, 2024 - By 

    In an ever-changing world fraught with turmoil and conflict, the plight of refugees remains one of the most pressing humanitarian crises of our time. As borders blur and societies evolve, the stories of those fleeing persecution, violence, and hardship are poignant reminders of human resilience and the universal quest for safety and dignity.

    Recent years have seen a significant surge in the number of refugees worldwide, driven by conflicts, political unrest, economic instability, and the devastating impact of climate change.

    According to the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR), by the end of 2023, the global refugee population had surpassed 26 million, with millions more internally displaced within their own countries.

    While these statistics may seem daunting, behind each number lies a unique narrative of struggle, survival, and ultimately, resilience. The experiences of recent refugees are as diverse as the circumstances that forced them to flee. From the war-torn regions of Syria and Afghanistan to the political upheaval in Venezuela and Myanmar, each displacement represents a rupture in the lives of millions, often leaving families torn apart and communities shattered.

    However, amidst the adversity, there are stories of courage and hope that illuminate the human spirit. Recent refugees, despite the immense challenges they face, exhibit remarkable resilience and determination to rebuild their lives and contribute to their new communities.

    What is peculiar about recent refugees?

    One of the most striking aspects of the refugee experience is the ingenuity and resourcefulness displayed by individuals and families forced to leave behind everything familiar. From setting up makeshift schools in refugee camps to launching small businesses to sustain themselves, refugees demonstrate a remarkable capacity to adapt and thrive in the face of adversity.

    Moreover, recent refugees bring with them a wealth of knowledge, skills, and talents that enrich the fabric of their host societies. Whether doctors, engineers, artists, or entrepreneurs, many refugees possess valuable expertise that can contribute to the social, cultural, and economic vitality of their new communities.

    By embracing diversity and harnessing the potential of refugees, societies stand to benefit from the myriad contributions they bring.

    It is also essential to recognize the resilience of host communities that welcome refugees with open arms, often in the face of their challenges. Despite limited resources and sometimes entrenched prejudices, many communities around the world have extended compassion and solidarity to those seeking refuge, embodying the best of humanity in the midst of adversity.

    What needs to be done?

    However, while progress has been made in providing assistance and protection to refugees, significant challenges persist. Adequate funding for humanitarian aid, ensuring access to education and healthcare, and fostering inclusive policies that promote integration and social cohesion are among the many pressing issues that require concerted global action.

    As we reflect on the experiences of recent refugees, let us reaffirm our commitment to upholding the principles of compassion, solidarity, and human rights for all. By standing in solidarity with refugees and recognizing their resilience and contributions, we not only honor their dignity but also reaffirm our shared humanity in an increasingly interconnected world.

    In the face of adversity, recent refugees embody the unwavering spirit of resilience, reminding us of the power of hope and the resilience of the human spirit. As they navigate the challenges of displacement and rebuild their lives in new lands, their stories serve as a testament to the enduring strength of the human spirit and the universal quest for freedom, dignity, and a better tomorrow.

    Do you want to read more refugee stories? Go here.

  • Asylum seekers waiting at a hall
    Refugee Rights Reports

    The reason why UK is sending asylum seekers to Rwanda

    July 1, 2023 - By 

                                                                                                                                                   

    Recently, the UK captured global attention by unveiling a novel initiative to relocate asylum seekers to Rwanda.

    This move has sparked widespread apprehension, particularly among rights organizations that are scrutinizing the government’s motives. Despite these pressing inquiries, the government persists in its plan to transfer certain asylum seekers to Rwanda.

    Nonetheless, this strategy has faced allegations of unlawfulness, a verdict reinforced by the Court of Appeal.

    Numerous human rights advocates contend that this ruling might find itself challenged at the Supreme Court, thus casting a cloud of speculation across the international landscape.

                                                                                                     

    What is the Rwanda asylum seekers plan?

    According to international law, people can seek asylum in any country they chose. For asylees in the UK, there has been a five-year trial related to their transfer.

    The decision which was announced in April 2022 stated that asylees will be sent to Rwanda on a one way ticket.

    The strangest thing about this new plan is that, these people will not get an automatic acceptance into Rwanda.

    They might be granted the refugee status. It is uncertain. Otherwise, they can settle there on other grounds. In other words, they can seek asylum in another  “safe third country”.

    Why is UK considering this plan?

    The answer to this question will not be acceptable to everyone. However, it is important. The UK government says this plan will deter people arriving in the UK through “illegal, dangerous or unnecessary methods”, such as on small boats which cross the English Channel, the BBC reported.

    Apparently, the decision for some people to risk their lives to come to UK is beyond comprehension. In 2022, more than 45,700 people used this route to come to the UK.  Those were the highest figure since records began.

    It is reported that, there are small-boat crossings almost every month since 2023. Though it has decreased compared to last year, the numbers are expected to rise in the coming months. 

    It is one year now since the first flight was scheduled for asylees to be sent to Rwanda. This   trip was cancelled mainly because of legal challenges. There is uncertainty as to when the next flight will be planned, but speculations are high as the UK government continues talks about the issue.

    What was the Court of Appeal’s decision about asylum seekers?

    Regarding the huge question about Rwanda’s safety in relation to this plan, the Court of Appeal overturned an earlier ruling by the High Court. This decision which came in June 2023 proclaimed the Rwanda plan was lawful.

    The judges opinioned that, Rwanda is not a safe third country. This is because there are some inconsistencies with its asylum system. One of which is that, asylum seekers could be sent back to their home countries, thus compelling them to be exposed to persecution again. 

    It said that “unless and until” those deficiencies are corrected, removal of asylum seekers to Rwanda is unlawful, BBC reported.

    From the regional perspective, this Rwanda policy breaches Article 3 of the European Convention on Human Rights, which prohibits torture and inhuman treatment.

    The final decision on this case was rather unclear. It was not a unanimous one. Among the three judges who precided, two agreed to reverse the High Court’s decision, but the third did not.

    The judges said their decision does not imply a view about the “political merits” of the policy.

    Who brought this case against the government?

    Asylum Aid is a British charity working to support asylum seekers in the UK. They brought this case claiming it violates the rights of asylees in the UK.

    Regarding the judgement, they said it was a “vindication of the importance of the rule of law and basic fairness when fundamental rights are at stake”.

    What is UNHCR’s position?

    The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees advised the court in the appeal as it related to international refugee law.

    They agreed with the ruling, and urged the UK government to “pursue other measures” instead.

    How did the UK government respond to the decision about asylum seekers?

    Representing the government, Home Secretary Suella Braverman called the judgement “disappointing”. On the other hand, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak confirmed the government will be sought permission to appeal the decision to the Supreme Court. This means the legal proceedings might take a long time. 

    The pressure from other refugee charities seems to be making positive effects. Airlines such as Privilege Style and two others who had previously conducted deportation flights  withdrew from their Home Office contract regarding the Rwanda scheme.

    How many people might be sent to Rwanda’as asylum seekers?

    To indicate the number of people who might be possibly sent to Rwanda, the government had previously said anyone entering the UK illegally after 1 January 2022 could be sent. In this statement, there was no limit about the number. 

    On the side of Rwanda, it claims to be able to handle a 1,000 asylum seekers during the trial period. There could be space for more people they added.

    This plan will not benefit only the UK. It is said to be an exchange wherein, Rwanda can request the UK to take in some of its most vulnerable refugees.

    How much does the asylum seeker plan cost?

    Reports have it that the UK has paid the Rwandan government £140m. The overall cost is not clear to the public.

    An economic-impact assessment was done for the government’s Illegal Migration Bill.  It estimated that removing each individual to a third country, such as Rwanda, would cost £63,000 more than keeping them in the UK. 

    This huge figure is the difference between the total cost of removing an individual – estimated to be £169,000 – and the £106,000 spent on housing support if they remain in the UK.

    In unclear terms, the Home office claims this policy is aimed at deterring illegal individuals. The figures of the number remain undefined. 

    Generally, the UK’s asylum system costs £3bn a year.  This massive amount means almost £7m a day is spent on hotel accommodation for refugees and asylum seekers.

    Several critics claim the daily cost is so high because of the long time taken to decide on applications. Also, the strict ban on asylum seekers working while waiting for confirmation of their status is irrelevant. 

    Are you interested in reading more articles about refugees? Click here.

  • Turkey
    Refugee Rights Reports

    What Erdogan’s win means to Syrian Refugees in Turkey

    June 10, 2023 - By 

    Turkey will forever be applauded for opening their border widely to millions of refugees especially those from Syria. For the long time that they have been there, anti-refugee sentiments have been common. Several times, they were threatened that they will be forcefully repatriated. 

    The recent May Turkish elections left everyone unsure of the future, especially Syrians. For many, voting was not just a performance of political responsibility but an outward display of the need to see change. Whether Syrian-Turkish citizens or Turkish, everyone had high hopes for the outcome of their votes. 

    Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s win for another five years is a source of victory and hope to many people.  Many people voted for him because they thought his government protected their families and gave them the opportunity to have adoptive homes. 

    What does this mean to Syrians?

    Many Syrians see hope in the government of Erdogan. For example, Al-Abdullah  from Palmyra told ALjazeera his story. He didn’t hesitate to because of hi family. Fortunately for him, he was naturalized three years ago, because of his achievements in sports and education. His engagement in martial arts as a champion and a student of engineering at the University of Gaziantep, gave him the rare possibility to be selected for the citizenship process.

    Regarding his family in Gaziantep, they were living under “temporary protection status”. In refugee terms, that implies they are legally protected from refoulement. Despite the fact that they entered Turkey illegally. For many years now, they have legal residency and access to basic services such as healthcare and education. However, their travel ability is limited only within their assigned province.

    Based on reports from the United Nations refugee agency, the vast majority of refugees in Turkey – 3.6 million – are Syrians. They are living under temporary protection. Amazingly, about 200,000 have been granted Turkish citizenship since the 2011 Syrian war broke out.

    What are the challenges Syrians face in Turkey?

    Many Syrians claim there have been huge changes in the way they are treated by Turks. They blame the deteriorated relationship and unpleasant sentiments towards them based in the increasing economic crisis that has brought high levels of inflation. This has been directly connected to the fall of Turkey’s currency. All these situations provoked some Turks to become unhappy with migrants as a whole. Harassments and racist attacks have been the order of the day for many Syrians by some radical Turks. 

    “At least [under Erdogan] I feel like I can be involved in Turkish politics like a Turk, not just as a Syrian. Many of us feel we are an integral part of this country because we grew up mainly here and don’t remember much about Syria,”  al-Abdullah told Aljazeera.

    What do Syrians think about the election results?

    On the streets of Inonu Caddesi, Gaziantep’s Syrian-majority neighbourhood, many Syrians say they feel relieved. Many of the half a million Syrians in Gaziantep were seriously affected by the devastating February 6 earthquakes. There were rumors that Erdogan will not have votes from this area because his government mismanaged funds and responded slowly when the disaster occurred. However, to everyone’s surprise,  Gaziantep had 62.7 percent of the votes for Erdogan. That huge number is said to be mostly from Syrians because this is a border city between Turkey and Syria. 

    Reporting to Aljazeera News, 37-year-old Kara Ali said, “For me and my family, [his victory] is more ‘comfortable’ because his opponent based his election campaign on racism towards us refugees, which is certainly unsettling.” 

    Syrians claim that their presence in Turkey was at the core of the second round of campaigns. This is because both presidential candidates spoke about the status of refugees in their countries. 

    What was the major fear of Syrians?

    It has been a shock for many people as the other political candidate Kemal Kilicdaroglu had been making and posting public posters of his racist motives. With the big inscription ‘Syrians Will Go’, he outrightly accused them of threatening national security.  Such xenophobic rhetoric began after severe earthquakes, then during the election campaigns. For many Syrians, it was almost their time to leave Turkey. They were more afraid and uncertain about their already uncertain future. 

    Adding to Aljazeera,  “I was living under great psychological pressure due to the increase in hate speech and the rise of racism against Syrians,”  Al-Dimashqi said in Sakulta, a popular coffee shop in Gaziantep where Syrians often meet.

    “All our conversations and meetings as Syrians centred around the elections. We talked about our unknown future after the elections and our fear of how society would treat us in the aftermath,” he added. Al-Dimashqi, originally from Damascus. He moved to Gaziantep in 2016 by illegally crossing the border.

    Every Syrian wanted Erdogan to win, mainly because they felt he accepted them as humans in Turkey. Though relieved, caution is the new watchword for Syrians these days.

    Another main reason why Syrians were satisfied with Edrogan’s win is because he had promised during the campaign trail, that one million Syrians would be “voluntarily returned” to their country. This is in connection to his plans on normalizing relations with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. Though there is no timeframe for this, Syrians with temporary protections are concerned that they’ll have to face other challenges, such as new paperwork to remain legal, or increases in rents and bills.

    Generally, many Syrians still feel unsafe and insure in Turkey. 

    Recommendation

    Now is the time for the Turkish government to make clear stands on their support of refugees. Giving them a home is an undeniable assistance but guaranteeing their stay in peace is a greater responsibility. All these distressed, vulnerable people need a place to call home until there is stability in their own country. If Turkey can maintain that home for them, it will be a stable environment for many people, especially innocent children. 

    Are you interested in reading more stories about refugees around the world, go here?

  • malawi
    Refugee Rights Reports

    How Malawi is dealing with refugees?

    May 27, 2023 - By 

    For many years, Malawi, like many other countries, has been supporting numerous refugees running into their country fleeing several situations.

    Recently, there was an arrest and detention of 377 refugees, including 117 children. Last week, on the 17 May, there were reports of forced relocation to the Dzaleka refugee camp by the Malawi authorities.

    The government seems to consider camping as a solution to support refugees. 

    Nationwide reports surprised everyone as the government made arrests and closed some shops and businesses owned by refugees in Lilongwe.

    Even asylum seekers were affected by this unexpected encampment policy.

    This new order stipulates all refugees and asylum-seekers should voluntarily return to the camp. The decree mandates all the above-listed group of people living both in local communities and cities to go back latest by 15 April 2023.

    Reactions of Refugees in Malawi

    Among the many who fled back to the camp, 35 persons recounted their unhappy movement to the UNHCR. For example, some said they fled and abandoned everything. Others almost lost family members due to the chaos.

    For many, their initial stay in Maula Central Prison before being transferred in government vehicles to Dzaleka on 19 and 20 May was dreadful.

    UNHCR call to the Malawi government

    “We strongly reiterate our call to the authorities to rescind their relocation decision as the existing structures in Dzaleka refugee camp are already stretched to the limit and cannot accommodate more refugees in a dignified manner,” said Valentin Tapsoba, Director of UNHCR’s Regional Bureau for Southern Africa. “This will result in immense human suffering and create a new dependency on humanitarian assistance.”

    Any return to Dzaleka refugee camp should be in accordance with human rights principles and not result in the detention of children.

    How many people have returned?

    Based on registered records, 505 individuals have returned to the camp. Most of who forcefully moved.

    The situation in the camp is unstable. Some refugees have returned to their previous homes. Others are spending time with family relatives. Sadly, approximately 110 people are homeless. They are lodging at the camp’s reception center. This has created congestion, resulting in insufficient water and sanitation facilities. All this has led to high safety and health concerns.

    Effects of the relocation.

    Dzaleka refugee camp, like every other lodging facility, has the following problems; health services, water, shelter and sanitation facilities.

    The increasing population is a massive challenge to provide needed support. 

    One of the negative effects of relocating self-sufficient and productive refugees and asylum-seekers to Dzaleka will only exacerbate these problems.

    This is directly dwindling on their prospects of rebuilding their lives and creating a sense of financial stability for their children.

    The relocation will also negatively affect refugee children enrolled in schools across the country. They have to join overcrowded classes in the camp, this is seriously impacting their education.

    Malawi is host to over 50,600 refugees. These people are  mainly from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Burundi and Rwanda. As of 22 May, the 12,000 refugee population designed for the camp has been exceeded beyond limit.

    An estimated, 8,000 refugees and asylum-seekers living in  in Malawi’s rural and urban areas. The timeframe is unknown.

    Several of them said they came in 2003 and others in 1994. These people have with no doubt fully integrated into the local Malawian community. 

    After all these years, it is no surprise that they have become self-reliant.

    This implies they contribute to the local economy via small-scale businesses. Some engaged in other entrepreneurial activities to support their lives far away from their war-torn countries.

    Malawi’s obligation under international law to protect refugees.

    Malawi’s obligation under international law to protect refugees.

    The Malawian government is a signatory to the UNHCR refugee convention.

    The unique country is part to the Comprehensive Refugee Response Framework.

    In addition, it has pledged at the Global Refugee Forum in December 2019 to incorporate refugee matters into its national development agenda. 

    They promised to reform the legal and policy framework.

    This includes a cover registration and documentation of refugees. Furthermore, they vowed to enhance refugee status determination and support the self-reliance of refugees through increased livelihood activities.

    Recommendation

    Refugees, like every other group of people, need support. As much the huge population can affect the financial support from their host governments, there is no denial to the other measure of support. 

    Although camping refugees was an old effect measure to control the supply of necessities, camping is now ineffective. The increasing population is affecting the supply of fundamental resources. Humanitarian organizations like the UNHCR are battling with heavy financial constraints to support jobless, idle refugees. 

    It is unreasonable for hardworking economic refugees to become jobless. On the one hand, it is worthwhile mentioning that, these people did not just assist their families with the proceeds of their businesses, but they provided needed support to Malawians too. 

    Destabilizing them economically and forcing them to return to the camps is not a mitigating solution. In other ways, they are sending them back to the time they fled the war. 

    Above everything, children, who form the highest majority of the refugee population, suffer the most. Many will no longer be able to continue school. Others have a mandate to join already small, cramped camp schools battling with major education problems.

    Supporting refugees is limited to giving them a piece of land to build camps. It should be enabling these people to be able to stand for themselves and fend for their families in all aspects.

    If you want to read more refugee articles, go here.

  • assist refugees
    Refugee Rights Reports

    How can we assist refugees?

    April 6, 2023 - By 


    The topic of who can become a refugee is no longer hidden; it’s a well-discussed matter. Almost anyone can find themselves in that position in just a day. This is the reason why we need to be deliberate to assist refugees because we can become one someday.

    Millions of Ukrainians, for instance, didn’t anticipate needing refuge in different countries.

    The escalation of wars and conflicts is leading to alarming rates of violent deaths and attacks on human lives.

    Consequently, assisting refugees is not merely a humanitarian duty but a display of basic humanity. Offering support has evolved into a way of envisioning that others might do the same for us if unexpected challenges arise in our own countries.

    Climate change, from droughts to famine, is another significant factor driving global migration.

    The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) notes that the number of forcibly displaced individuals has reached a record high, with over 100 million forced to flee their homes due to conflicts and persecution.

    Millions of refugees and displaced people from places like Afghanistan, Syria, Yemen, and Ukraine are facing incredibly difficult moments in their lives.

    Your support can make a difference by saving lives, upholding human rights, and ensuring that resettled refugees can look forward to brighter futures.

    There are countless ways to lend your support. This article outlines a few ways you can make a difference.

    Donate things and money

    Many people often assume that donations solely involve giving money.

    While monetary contributions are a part of donations, they’re not the only way to help.

    The UNHCR serves as a primary organization, registering and providing shelter, food, water, and protection for countless refugee families. It’s a great option for financial donations, but there are also numerous other humanitarian groups tirelessly aiding refugees.

    These include the Jesuit Refugee Service, the International Rescue Committee, Save the Children, the International Committee of the Red Cross, and many more.

    On their respective websites, you can donate funds or essential relief supplies.

    In some cases, cash assistance is provided to vulnerable families. Even small amounts can make a significant impact on the lives of these distressed individuals.

    Donate time to volunteer

    Giving assistance doesn’t always have to follow the expected path, as many believe that help can only come in the form of money.

    Volunteerism is a growing trend these days and has proven to be highly rewarding.

    This can take various forms, such as visiting refugee families in urban or rural communities, spending quality time with them, or offering your skills at a local or international organization within your city.

    Beyond the few organizations mentioned earlier, numerous non-governmental organizations operate in our neighborhoods or towns.

    On a personal note, I dedicated nearly 6 years to volunteering at both local and international organizations.

    In Malaysia, I served as a public relations assistant at Sameskies, an organization supporting refugees from various countries.

    My contributions included managing social media posts and creating leadership training content for specific projects.

    Many organizations now offer opportunities for online volunteerism, so physical travel isn’t always necessary.

    While some, like the UN, provide compensation for your time, others may request your services on a voluntary basis.

    Assist refugees by advocating for their rights

    Assisting refugees in these ways involves two approaches.

    Firstly, you can become part of the global community by collaborating with elected officials and community leaders to safeguard the rights of refugees. This effort can lead to their warm reception in your community.

    This might entail composing policy documents or making in-person visits.

    Others contribute by sharing refugee-related content on social media, which can involve reposting stories from refugee organizations or crafting blogs like this one to shed light on their challenges.

    Assist refugees by offering your space

    In the end, even after their arduous journey to safety, refugees continue to require our assistance. We can assist refugees in many ways.

    You have the opportunity to extend a warm welcome to newcomers in your community by providing shelter, offering support, or even helping them find employment.

    While this might carry a personal touch for many, you can also spread awareness about their stories and seek out volunteer and sponsorship chances in your vicinity to aid refugee families.

    For more refugee stories, click here.