Every day, I ponder when the assaults on myself, fellow refugees, and those yearning for protection will cease. Since fleeing my home in Afghanistan in 2011 due to the Taliban, I’ve battled for my rights in Australia. Although I eventually secured permanent residency after years of advocacy, countless others remain trapped in limbo, split from their families indefinitely. Politicians misuse our stories, creating harmful narratives that divide rather than unite, all for electoral gain. They implement policies that tear families apart and tarnish our quest for safety, blatantly disregarding Australia’s international commitments.
Words are power. The constant dehumanisation we face, labelled by politicians as ‘illegal asylum seekers’, only escalates the stigma against us. Such language fosters fear and fractures communities; seeking safety is a fundamental human right, not a crime, as affirmed by the 1951 Refugee Convention to which Australia is a signatory. By misusing terms, some leaders aim to erode our humanity and disguise their harsh policies.
People don’t abandon their homes and risk perilous journeys without dire reasons; they flee to survive. Australia, a land nurtured by diversity, has a moral obligation to protect, not vilify, individuals escaping persecution. Misleading rhetoric breeds discrimination and hate, complicating our journey to rebuild lives, find safety, and contribute meaningfully to Australian society.
Even as many refugees establish roots in Australia, we continue to face labelling as ‘illegal,’ despite our contributions and sacrifices. Families are forcibly separated, and we’re left questioning our futures. Remaining in unsafe homelands is not an option; returning often leads to death. What price must we pay for belonging in a country built on principles of fairness?
How much longer will we be kept apart? This journey may span a lifetime. We must urge our leaders to adopt language that esteems the dignity of asylum seekers. Instead of fuelling fears, they should pursue just and efficient asylum processes, fortifying Australia as a genuine haven for those in need.
Demonising refugees does not enhance safety; fostering compassion and respecting human rights does. It’s time for politicians to cease using refugees as pawns in their political manoeuvres. Australia must embody justice and dignity for all. Through united efforts, we shall continue to advocate for a world where everyone enjoys human rights, pushing for the rights of refugees and asylum seekers.
Zaki Haidari, a refugee rights advocate, critiques the political rhetoric surrounding refugees in Australia. Having fled from Afghanistan, he highlights the struggles faced by asylum seekers, calling for compassion and fair treatment. Haidari stresses that seeking safety is a fundamental right and implores leaders to use language that protects dignity rather than spreads fear. He urges Australia to fulfil its moral and legal obligations to refugees, emphasising the need for unity and understanding in society.
In summary, the ongoing dehumanisation of refugees in Australia must end. Seeking safety is an inherent human right, yet politicians perpetuate harmful narratives for political expediency. Australia has a moral duty to protect those fleeing danger and to create a more inclusive society founded on compassion and understanding. Effective advocacy and compassionate rhetoric can pave the way towards a more just and dignified society for all. The call for leadership that inspires humanity and reconvenes our values as a nation is strong. Together, we can champion the rights of those seeking refuge and strive for a brighter future where dignity and safety are accorded to all.
Original Source: www.amnesty.org.au
