‘We Are Dying Every Moment’: The Afghan Struggle to Reach Safety
For Afghan migrants like Azaan, escaping Taliban rule means facing unimaginable dangers—from scaling border walls to enduring inhumane conditions imposed by smugglers. Despite the risks, many persist, driven by fear, hunger, and the hope for safety in places like the UK.
Border Dangers and Smuggler Exploitation
Crossing into Turkey from Iran often involves scaling a 20-foot wall, risking broken limbs or death. Azaan, a former Afghan military officer, has attempted the journey multiple times, selling everything he owns to fund the perilous escape. Smugglers, charging thousands of dollars, provide little food or safety and leave migrants vulnerable to police brutality and deportation.
Global Attention on Afghan Migrants
The plight of Afghan migrants has worsened as neighboring countries like Iran and Turkey tighten their borders and deportations increase. In October, Iran faced accusations of firing indiscriminately at Afghan migrants, with the UN calling for an investigation. The situation highlights the lack of safe, legal migration pathways for those fleeing violence and persecution.
Death on the Journey
Tragedy often strikes migrants attempting dangerous crossings. Javid, a former soldier, died of hypothermia while crossing the Aegean Sea to Greece. His widow, now stranded in Turkey, recounts the harrowing journey. “We were packed into cars like animals, then left to cross the sea in a dinghy,” she says.
UK Resettlement Challenges
The UK offers resettlement schemes for Afghans who assisted British efforts during the war, but progress has been slow. Women like Shahida, who protested against the Taliban, resorted to crossing the English Channel in overcrowded dinghies. “I had everything in Kabul, but my life was taken from me,” she says.
A Desperate Future
For Azaan and countless others, the dream of safety comes at great cost. “This is the only purpose of my life now,” he says, determined to try again despite the dangers.
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