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Fighting for a Better Future: The Stories of Afghan Refugees in Portugal

  • Yazarın fotoğrafı: Elif Irmak
    Elif Irmak
  • 1 May 2023
  • 4 dakikada okunur

Güncelleme tarihi: 20 Tem 2023

The stories of Afghan refugees often get lost in the midst of the broader political and humanitarian crises in their country, but their experiences provide a powerful glimpse into the human toll of conflict and displacement. During my interviews with Afghan refugees, I was struck by their resilience and courage in the face of adversity. Despite facing incredible challenges such as forced displacement, loss of homes, desires, and livelihoods, they remained determined to create a better future for themselves and their families, here in Portugal. However, Afghanistan's ongoing political instability and insecurity continue to put their lives and freedom at risk, forcing many to flee their homes in search of safety. These stories serve as a reminder of the urgent need for continued support and attention to the needs of Afghan refugees, both in their home country and abroad.

The Portuguese Red Cross has been playing an essential role in providing support and assistance to refugees in the city of São João de Madeira. In addition to offering legal and social assistance, language classes, educational support, and access to basic needs, they have launched the "Sem Barreiras" (Without Barriers) project, which aims to facilitate the integration of refugees into the local community.

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Through this project, refugees have been given the opportunity to participate in various cultural, educational, and recreational activities, which help them develop new skills, make new connections, and feel more at home in their new surroundings. The Portuguese Red Cross has been working closely with other organizations and community partners to ensure that refugees in São João de Madeira receive the support they need to rebuild their lives and integrate into the community. Its efforts, particularly through the "Sem Barreiras" project, have been instrumental in helping refugees overcome the challenges of displacement and create a new home in Portugal. As the world watches the rapidly unfolding events in Afghanistan, it's crucial that we remember the human faces behind the headlines and work to ensure that Afghan refugees, as well as all other refugees, receive the support and protection they need to rebuild their lives.


My dream is to become a powerful woman who can help other women in my country


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Manizha (32), Shaiq (24), and Shaqaya(21), now reside in Portugal after being forced to leave their lives behind in Afghanistan. Manizha a language teacher, was among the many women who were forced to abandon their careers due to the Taliban's oppressive policies. "I worked as a language teacher at a private school until the Taliban banned women from working, abruptly ending my career," she said. "But here, women are free and the educational support provided by the Portuguese Red Cross is particularly valuable for my family."

Despite the challenges she has faced, Manizha's dream is to improve herself and support other women in Afghanistan.


Fight for music, even if they say music is 'haram.' No, it is not haram and we are not doing anything wrong

Shaiq, a 24-year-old musician, was also forced to leave his music career behind when the Taliban took control. "I had a wonderful life in Afghanistan. I was working from 8 am to 5 pm. The music school where I taught was like a second home to me," he said. "But one Saturday everything changed. I was walking to the bank when my family called and told me to come home immediately because everything was about to change. I left everything behind and rushed home. I'll never forget the day the Taliban returned."


Shaiq fled to Portugal, however, he remains passionate about music and gives music lessons to Portuguese children. "I want to thank the Portuguese government and the Portuguese Red Cross for their support.

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They provided us with an apartment and food support, directed us to Portuguese courses, and organized activities that support our social life. I know and feel that they are doing their best for us," he said. "To all the musicians and everyone else in Afghanistan, I want to say, do not lose hope. Fight for music, even if they say music is 'haram.' No, it is not haram and we are not doing anything wrong. We must continue to fight for what we believe in. Music cannot be banned, and we have to struggle."


Women should support each other now more than ever in Afghanistan


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Shaqaya, a 21-year-old economics student, had to abandon her studies when the Taliban banned girls from getting an education. "Before the Taliban took over, I was studying economics at a university in Afghanistan. However, when the Taliban banned girls from getting an education, I had to stay at home," she said. Now in Portugal, Shaqaya is taking Portuguese language courses, participating in sports, and preparing to enroll in university again. "My greatest dream is to complete my education and improve myself," she said. "Perhaps I can help other Afghan women with what I have learned here. Women should support each other now more than ever in Afghanistan."


Despite the challenges they have faced, Manizha, Shaiq, and Shaqaya remain determined to rebuild their lives and contribute to their communities, both in Portugal and Afghanistan. The stories of Afghan refugees in Portugal highlight the resilience and determination of those who have been forced to flee their homes due to conflict and displacement. While the Portuguese Red Cross and other organizations are providing crucial support and assistance, it is essential that the international community continues to pay attention to the needs of Afghan refugees. Manizha, Shaiq, and Shaqaya's experiences demonstrate the importance of education, cultural expression, and community support in helping refugees rebuild their lives. As the world watches the rapidly changing events in Afghanistan, it is vital that we do not forget the human faces behind the headlines and continue to work towards ensuring the protection and support of all refugees.


Elif Irmak Erkek

 
 
 

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