Displaced
DisplacementMore than 117.3 million people are currently displaced all over the world. This is about thirteen times the Swiss population.
The main burden of the refugee crisis is not borne by us. Around three quarters of all refugees are in Africa, Latin America, Asia as well as the Near and Middle East. Most displaced people stay in their home countries or seek refuge in one of the neighbouring countries. Displaced people often do not have the financial means, the necessary strength or freedom to go farther afield. Instead, they need to fight for their daily survival. Only a small proportion of the refugees worldwide seek asylum in Europe or in Switzerland.
Task GE-1
Watch this film by Mano Khali. What’s going through your mind? How does it make you feel? Think about the following statements and write your thoughts in the speech bubble:
- Where and how do displaced people sleep and live?
- What about the people?
- Your feelings
- Any questions
Task GE-1
Watch this film by Mano Khali. What’s going through your mind? How does it make you feel? Think about the following statements and write your thoughts in the speech bubble:
- Where and how do displaced people sleep and live?
- What about the people?
- Your feelings
- Any questions
Task GE-2
Read the statements of the displaced taken from the film. Find out why they had to flee their homes. Note down where they fled to. Thinking about their statements, what do you think does home mean to these displaced people. Did they have to cross a national border? Compare the displaced people’s statements in the film with other statements of displaced people. Do they contain the same message? How do you understand these statements? How do you feel when you hear such statements?
Download
Information on filmmaker Mano Kahlil (PDF)
Read the statements of the displaced taken from the film. Find out why they had to flee their homes. Note down where they fled to. Thinking about their statements, what do you think does home mean to these displaced people. Did they have to cross a national border? Compare the displaced people’s statements in the film with other statements of displaced people. Do they contain the same message? How do you understand these statements? How do you feel when you hear such statements?
Download
Information on filmmaker Mano Kahlil (PDF)
Facts
Task GE-3
Read the following statements. Do you agree or disagree? Justify your answers:
- Everyone is fleeing to Europe.
- Most of the refugees are young men.
- The number of refugees wanting to come to Switzerland is particularly high.
- Displacement is difficult, but short-lived.
Read the following statements. Do you agree or disagree? Justify your answers:
- Everyone is fleeing to Europe.
- Most of the refugees are young men.
- The number of refugees wanting to come to Switzerland is particularly high.
- Displacement is difficult, but short-lived.
Terms
Terms
Countries
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South Sudan
Somalia
Lebanon
Syria
Afghanistan
Myanmar
Ukraine
Venezuela
Colombia
Bangladesh
People
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Aziz
Afghanistan
Abdi
Somalia
Malaika
Südsudan
Hayat
Syrien
Mohammed
Syrien
And you?
And you?
Even though the number of asylum seekers is currently decreasing, the number of displaced people has never been as high as in the past few years. There are currently more than 117 million displaced persons worldwide. Have you ever thought about what it means to leave your home, your family and friends? What it means to be displaced and arrive in a place, where nobody has been waiting for you? What it means to only take the bare essentials? What would you leave behind, and what would you take?
Task GE-5
If you could only take four items, which four of these nine items would you take?
Why would you take exactly those four items?
If you could only take four items, which four of these nine items would you take?
Why would you take exactly those four items?
CH-Asylum
Asylum in Switzerland
Those seeking protection from persecution in
Switzerland can apply for asylum at one of the six federal asylum centres (FAC)
of the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM). The FACs are located in Altstätten, Basel, Bern, Boudry, Chiasso and Zurich. They
have two main purposes; providing shelter to asylum seekers and looking after
asylum procedures. The maximum length of stay in a federal asylum centre is 140
days. Asylum seekers whose applications cannot be processed in a federal asylum
centre as further clarification is necessary are allocated to a canton where
they are given accommodation and care until their asylum procedure is
completed.
What happens upon arrival in Switzerland?
1. Reception at the asylum centre
When arriving at a centre, asylum seekers are required to provide their personal details and hand over their travel and identity documents. Once this is done, they are assigned a room and a bed.
When arriving at a centre, asylum seekers are required to provide their personal details and hand over their travel and identity documents. Once this is done, they are assigned a room and a bed.
2. Registration
Asylum seekers are registered and have their picture taken. Their photo and personal details are needed for the asylum procedure.
Asylum seekers are registered and have their picture taken. Their photo and personal details are needed for the asylum procedure.
3. Fingerprints
Asylum seekers have to provide their fingerprints which are then matched with data in the European database “Eurodac”. The Eurodac system checks whether asylum seekers have already applied for asylum in another country, or whether they have entered Switzerland via a third state. If someone’s fingerprints are already registered in another member state of the Dublin Convention, that particular country will be responsible for the examination of an asylum application. The Dublin Convention aims to prevent applicants from submitting applications in multiple member states.
Asylum seekers have to provide their fingerprints which are then matched with data in the European database “Eurodac”. The Eurodac system checks whether asylum seekers have already applied for asylum in another country, or whether they have entered Switzerland via a third state. If someone’s fingerprints are already registered in another member state of the Dublin Convention, that particular country will be responsible for the examination of an asylum application. The Dublin Convention aims to prevent applicants from submitting applications in multiple member states.
4. Personal interview
From the very first day of arrival, everyone seeking asylum receives advice and legal representation free of charge. During an in-depth interview, asylum seekers are questioned about their reasons for seeking protection and the route they took to reach Switzerland. During this interview, asylum seekers have to provide details on their identity, country of origin and living conditions
From the very first day of arrival, everyone seeking asylum receives advice and legal representation free of charge. During an in-depth interview, asylum seekers are questioned about their reasons for seeking protection and the route they took to reach Switzerland. During this interview, asylum seekers have to provide details on their identity, country of origin and living conditions
During the interview, asylum seekers can give a detailed account of why they fled their countries. They can prove this with police summons, court decisions, medical certificates or photos. Based on this information, the SEM checks whether this particular person will be recognised as a refugee and granted asylum. In case a person is not granted asylum, the SEM clarifies whether or not they can return to their home countries.
Who is a recognised refugee in Switzerland?
Refugees are persons who in their native country or in their country of last residence are subject to serious disadvantages or have a well-founded fear of being exposed to such disadvantages for reasons of race, religion, nationality, membership of a particular social group or due to their political opinions. (Art. 3 para.1 Asylum Act).
Task CHAP-1
Hearing on the grounds for asylum (process)
Watch the film “Asylum Hearing”. At the asylum centre, every person is interviewed once or several times. This interview is usually conducted by four people and is the core piece of the asylum procedure.
Write down the goals and tasks of the people participating in this interview. You will find additional information on the asylum hearing online.
Task CHAP-2
Film “Switzerland’s accelerated asylum procedure”; investigate the SEM’s decision The film “Switzerland’s accelerated asylum procedure” explains the essential aspects of the asylum procedure. Watch the film in pairs and investigate the reasons for the State Secretariat for Migration’s decision (SEM). Write them down for every displaced character.
Task CHAP-3
Perspectives – dream and realities
The decision on whether to grant asylum or not drastically sets the course for the future of every asylum seeker. Find out how your chosen character copes with the decision. Write down your questions and thoughts. You will need these notes at the end of this exercise.
Hearing on the grounds for asylum (process)
Watch the film “Asylum Hearing”. At the asylum centre, every person is interviewed once or several times. This interview is usually conducted by four people and is the core piece of the asylum procedure.
Write down the goals and tasks of the people participating in this interview. You will find additional information on the asylum hearing online.
Task CHAP-2
Film “Switzerland’s accelerated asylum procedure”; investigate the SEM’s decision The film “Switzerland’s accelerated asylum procedure” explains the essential aspects of the asylum procedure. Watch the film in pairs and investigate the reasons for the State Secretariat for Migration’s decision (SEM). Write them down for every displaced character.
Task CHAP-3
Perspectives – dream and realities
The decision on whether to grant asylum or not drastically sets the course for the future of every asylum seeker. Find out how your chosen character copes with the decision. Write down your questions and thoughts. You will need these notes at the end of this exercise.
Perspectives
Perspectives
Task GE-6
Despite international organisations’ efforts to give people perspectives in their home countries, millions are leaving their homes. Their plight is greater than their hopes for a future in their own countries.
What do you think would have made them stay? The six slideshows will give you more information on these efforts. Come up with solutions and write them down.
Despite international organisations’ efforts to give people perspectives in their home countries, millions are leaving their homes. Their plight is greater than their hopes for a future in their own countries.
What do you think would have made them stay? The six slideshows will give you more information on these efforts. Come up with solutions and write them down.
Links
More multimedia stories
Asylum procedure in Switzerland
The accelerated procedure follows strict rules and is timed across all levels.
Skills4Life
Competences and livelihoods for refugees and locals in Kakuma, Kenya
Hunger
The fight against hunger and for fair access to healthy and balanced nutrition are a global challenge and a key concern for the SDC.
Water in crisis
With increasing demand, the pressure on fresh water resources is on the rise all over the world. Every year, the world population grows by 80 million people, which is ten times the Swiss population.
Facts
Fact 1
117.3 million people were displaced across the globe in 2023. More than half of them remained in their home country:
- 63.3 million internally displaced in their home countries
- 43.4 million refugee who crossed a national border
- 5.6 million asylum seekers across the world
- 63.3 million internally displaced in their home countries
- 43.4 million refugee who crossed a national border
- 5.6 million asylum seekers across the world
Fact 2
Today, more than one per cent of the world's population is displaced (1 in 69 people). The number of displaced people has doubled since 2012: 42.7 million in 2012 versus 117.3 million at present.
Fact 3
40% of the displaced people (47 million) are children and youths under 18. More than 2 million children between 2018 and 2023 were born as refugees.
Fact 4
Almost three in four refugees (73 per cent) originated
from just five countries, and 87 per cent of them are
from just 10 countries.
- Afghanistan 6.4 m
- Syria 6.35 m
- Venezuela 6.1 m
- Ukraine 6 m
- South Sudan 2.29 m
- Sudan 1.5 m
- Myanmar 1.28 m
- Democratic Republic of the Congo 0.97 m
- Somalia 0.84 m
- Central African Republic 0.76 m
from just five countries, and 87 per cent of them are
from just 10 countries.
- Afghanistan 6.4 m
- Syria 6.35 m
- Venezuela 6.1 m
- Ukraine 6 m
- South Sudan 2.29 m
- Sudan 1.5 m
- Myanmar 1.28 m
- Democratic Republic of the Congo 0.97 m
- Somalia 0.84 m
- Central African Republic 0.76 m
Fact 5
Neighbouring countries still bear the brunt. More than 75% percent of all refugees are taken in by emerging and developing countries. 69% of refugees and displaced people abroad lived in countries neighbouring their countries of origin.
- The Islamic Republic of Iran is accommodating 3.8 million refugees
- Turkey 3.3 m
- Colombia 2.9 m
- Germany 2.6 m
- Pakistan 2.0 m
- Switzerland 211,000
Source: UNHCR 2023
- The Islamic Republic of Iran is accommodating 3.8 million refugees
- Turkey 3.3 m
- Colombia 2.9 m
- Germany 2.6 m
- Pakistan 2.0 m
- Switzerland 211,000
Source: UNHCR 2023
Fact 6
In 2023, 30,223 people applied for asylum in Switzerland. In 2022 approximately 75,000 refugees from Ukraine requested protection status S.
Source: SEM. Asylum Statistics 2023
Source: SEM. Asylum Statistics 2023
Fact 7
Asylum seekers, recognised refugees and provisionally admitted people account for around 2.6% of Switzerland’s total population.
Fact 8
Lebanon, on the other hand, has the second largest number of refugees in the world in terms of population. Every 6th person in Lebanon is a refugee. The island of Aruba in the Caribbean has the most refugees, with 1 refugee per 5 islanders.
In Jordan every 16th person is a refugee and in Montenegro every 9th person.
In Jordan every 16th person is a refugee and in Montenegro every 9th person.
Task AZ-1
Use the information on our homepage to find out what Aziz’s life was like before he was displaced. Write down your thoughts, allocate them to the four keywords and exchange them with your group members.
Use the information on our homepage to find out what Aziz’s life was like before he was displaced. Write down your thoughts, allocate them to the four keywords and exchange them with your group members.
Task AZ-2
People flee their home countries for different reasons. Get a good idea of what the situation was like in Afghanistan (the Hazaras) at the time when Aziz was forced to leave his home, and write down the most important key figures. Work out Aziz’s reasons for leaving his home.
People flee their home countries for different reasons. Get a good idea of what the situation was like in Afghanistan (the Hazaras) at the time when Aziz was forced to leave his home, and write down the most important key figures. Work out Aziz’s reasons for leaving his home.
Task AZ-3
Based on the map, describe the route Aziz took during his displacement. Which regions did he travel through?
Based on the map, describe the route Aziz took during his displacement. Which regions did he travel through?
Task AZ-4
Aziz was on the go for four years and was often faced with the worst possible circumstances. You can imagine what he has been through by reading his story. Make a note on what you have learnt about his displacement and allocate them to the keywords.
Aziz was on the go for four years and was often faced with the worst possible circumstances. You can imagine what he has been through by reading his story. Make a note on what you have learnt about his displacement and allocate them to the keywords.
Task AZ-5
The five displaced characters (Aziz, Abdi, Hayat, Malaika and Mohammed) have now arrived in a safe place. However, they are now in a place where nobody has been waiting for them. A place where they might not even be welcome. How do they cope with being in this new place? What are their opportunities, and what are their dreams? And what does reality look like? What possibilities exist to facilitate their integration in the new place?
The five displaced characters (Aziz, Abdi, Hayat, Malaika and Mohammed) have now arrived in a safe place. However, they are now in a place where nobody has been waiting for them. A place where they might not even be welcome. How do they cope with being in this new place? What are their opportunities, and what are their dreams? And what does reality look like? What possibilities exist to facilitate their integration in the new place?
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Task AZ-1
Use the information on our homepage to find out what Aziz’s life was like before he was displaced. Write down your thoughts, allocate them to the four keywords and exchange them with your group members.
Task AZ-2
People flee their home countries for different reasons. Get a good idea of what the situation was like in Afghanistan (the Hazaras) at the time when Aziz was forced to leave his home, and write down the most important key figures. Work out Aziz’s reasons for leaving his home.
Task AZ-3
Based on the map, describe the route Aziz took during his displacement. Which regions did he travel through?
Task AZ-4
Aziz was on the go for four years and was often faced with the worst possible circumstances. You can imagine what he has been through by reading his story. Make a note on what you have learnt about his displacement and allocate them to the keywords.
Task AZ-5
The five displaced characters (Aziz, Abdi, Hayat, Malaika and Mohammed) have now arrived in a safe place. However, they are now in a place where nobody has been waiting for them. A place where they might not even be welcome. How do they cope with being in this new place? What are their opportunities, and what are their dreams? And what does reality look like? What possibilities exist to facilitate their integration in the new place?
Aziz
Hello, my name is Aziz Poladi. I am 31 years old and I am from Bamiyan in central Afghanistan.»
«I used to live in Bamiyan with my parents and my sister. We belong to the ethnic group of the Hazaras.»
«My father used to run a small grocery store. We lived in the floor above it.»
«In my spare time, I used to meet my friends and make kites.»
«In 1998, the situation became unbearable. The Taliban came to power and introduced strict rules. Women were no longer allowed to work and had to cover their faces. Men had to grow beards. Girls were no longer allowed to go to school. Music, television, cinema and sports were banned.”
«The Taliban severely punished those who did not adhere to the rules; sometimes they even executed people in the streets.»
13 October 2000
«Since the Taliban came to power, we have feared for our lives. We have to hide and do not dare go outside. As we were literally getting sick from fear, we decided to leave Afghanistan. We sold all our belongings and the entire family fled to Iran.»
«Since the Taliban came to power, we have feared for our lives. We have to hide and do not dare go outside. As we were literally getting sick from fear, we decided to leave Afghanistan. We sold all our belongings and the entire family fled to Iran.»
Kite competitions
In Afghanistan, boys and girls run fierce kite-flying competitions. Under the regime of the radical Islamic Taliban, however, the popular game was banned.
Khaled Hosseini’s book “Kite Runner’, which was published in 2003, is an ode to these competitions. In 2007, the Swiss film producer Marc Forster turned the story into a movie.
Link to trailer
Download assembly instructions to make a kite (PDF)
In Afghanistan, boys and girls run fierce kite-flying competitions. Under the regime of the radical Islamic Taliban, however, the popular game was banned.
Khaled Hosseini’s book “Kite Runner’, which was published in 2003, is an ode to these competitions. In 2007, the Swiss film producer Marc Forster turned the story into a movie.
Link to trailer
Download assembly instructions to make a kite (PDF)
«We only took the bare essentials with us. I took a few clothes, my mobile phone, a hat and warm gloves. The little savings I had as well as my mum’s family jewellery were the only financial security we had.»
What does Aziz take with him?
Afghan menswear consists of two pieces: a knee-length tunic (Kameez) and a pair of harem trousers (Salwar). The harem trousers have a low crotch and are tightened at the waist with a sewed-on string.
Pakol (hat) from Afghanistan
For centuries, men from Afghan mountain regions have worn this warm headgear. Even though the Pakol was not introduced by the Taliban, it often reminds us of them as they are often seen wearing them.
For centuries, men from Afghan mountain regions have worn this warm headgear. Even though the Pakol was not introduced by the Taliban, it often reminds us of them as they are often seen wearing them.
Jewellery from Afghanistan
Jewellery is part of the dowry an Afghan woman receives when she gets married. The woman can keep it, even if she gets divorced. She can independently decide on what she uses the dowry for.
Jewellery is part of the dowry an Afghan woman receives when she gets married. The woman can keep it, even if she gets divorced. She can independently decide on what she uses the dowry for.
«After we fled to Iran, we worked illegally in the field or on construction sites. We did not have a residential permit, no rights and hardly any money.»
«I was beaten many times for being Afghan. Hospitals refused to treat me, and I could not go to the police. It was horrible. The situation seemed to be better for my friends who had fled to Europe.»
«After three years in Iran, I left for Europe on my own.»
«My father found a trafficker, who said he would take me to Istanbul for USD 2,000. We had agreed to only pay the contact person, once I would ring home.»
«After a long and tiring journey in the pick-up truck, we had to walk across the mountains in the freezing cold for four long days.»
«My shoes were falling apart, and when an old man collapsed from exhaustion, the traffickers shot him and left him on the road.»
«In Turkey, the traffickers pushed us in a small overcrowded boat, which was supposed to reach Greece sometime during the night.»
«When I asked for a lifejacket, they asked me to pay extra for it.»
«Suddenly, the traffickers disappeared and left us on our own. None of us had ever steered a boat and most of us did not know how to swim.»
«We were terribly frightened that we would capsize and die, like so many other refugees had done before us.»
Dead or missing
In 2021, approximately 3,200 people died or went missing whilst trying to cross the Mediterranean Sea.
From which countries are the people who cross the Mediterranean Sea to get to Europe? 10.3% from Tunisia, 10.1% from Morocco, 9.9% from the Sub-Saharan region (unidentified), 8.8% from Algeria, 7.5% from Afghanistan, 5.8% from Egypt, 5.2% from Bangladesh and 4% from Syria.
Source: UNHCR 2021
In 2021, approximately 3,200 people died or went missing whilst trying to cross the Mediterranean Sea.
From which countries are the people who cross the Mediterranean Sea to get to Europe? 10.3% from Tunisia, 10.1% from Morocco, 9.9% from the Sub-Saharan region (unidentified), 8.8% from Algeria, 7.5% from Afghanistan, 5.8% from Egypt, 5.2% from Bangladesh and 4% from Syria.
Source: UNHCR 2021
How many of them were children and youths? According to UNHCR, this number stood at 173,800 in 2018. Most of them were from South Sudan.
The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) estimates that international trafficker gangs make more than USD 10 billion per year.
Traffickers also offer their services online. Some provide information on current routes while others offer fake identification papers or a trip by ship or truck
The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) estimates that international trafficker gangs make more than USD 10 billion per year.
Traffickers also offer their services online. Some provide information on current routes while others offer fake identification papers or a trip by ship or truck
«I was in Greece for one year. Sometimes I earned some money, and sometimes I got clothes and food from an aid organisation.»
«Finally, I took my few savings and hired traffickers who took me to Italy in a refrigerated truck.»
«I knew that people had died of hypothermia or suffocated in such refrigerated trucks. However, I had no choice.»
«From Trieste, I took the train to Switzerland. As I did not have enough money to buy a ticket, I was forced to dodge the fare.»
«When I the border police checked me, I told them that I was seeking asylum in Switzerland. They sent me directly to the federal asylum centre in Chiasso.»
«In the federal asylum centre I shared a room with ten other asylum seekers. I did
not sleep well and was never alone. Apart from learning German and cleaning,
there was not much I could do.»
«In the playing room, I can forget my worries and fears for a few hours.»
«At the federal asylum centre, I was asked during an interview why I applied for asylum in Switzerland. After a few months, I received the verdict, which was negative. I got provisional admission. This means that I am only allowed to stay in Switzerland until the situation in Afghanistan improves.»
«I feel safe in Switzerland, but only
temporarily. I have to renew my F permit on a regular basis. Nobody knows if I
can stay in Switzerland permanently. I really hope that I will get a permanent
residential permit.»
«After the decision, I started looking for a job which is difficult for refugees with provisional admission. Many employers don’t want to hire someone with a temporary permit. For this reason, I applied for social welfare. After three years and many rejections, I finally found a job as a kitchen boy in a restaurant.»
«The money I earn hardly makes ends meet. I support my family in Iran with the money that’s left every month. I miss them terribly. I try to stay in regular contact with them. My big dream is to start my own family in my new home.»
Local population
The local residents do a lot for the people in the federal asylum centres. They organise different activities, such as helping the children with their homework or playing with them; organising sports events, coffee parties, excursions or theatre visits. The management of the centre is at their disposal and looks after them.
Privacy
In the federal asylum centre, asylum seekers get a locker and a bed. They share a kitchen, dining hall and common room as well as sanitary facilities with other asylum seekers. They receive CHF 3 pocket money per day.
Provisional admission
Azis is not a recognised refugee because he cannot prove that his persecution is targeted and individual. During his interview, he explained that he fled Afghanistan because of the war. As the current situation in Afghanistan does not allow the authorities to force Aziz to return, they grant him provisional admission (F permit). Civil wars, severe health problems or unreasonable punishment on return are reasons to admit a someone provisionally.
Task AB-1
Use the information on our homepage to find out what Abdi’s life was like before he was displaced. Write down your thoughts, allocate them to the four keywords and exchange them with your group members.
Use the information on our homepage to find out what Abdi’s life was like before he was displaced. Write down your thoughts, allocate them to the four keywords and exchange them with your group members.
Task AB-2
People flee their home countries for different reasons. Get a good idea of what the situation was like in Somalia at the time when Abdi was forced to leave his home, and write down the most important key figures. Work out Abdi’s reasons for leaving his home.
People flee their home countries for different reasons. Get a good idea of what the situation was like in Somalia at the time when Abdi was forced to leave his home, and write down the most important key figures. Work out Abdi’s reasons for leaving his home.
Task AB-3
Based on the map, describe the route Abdi took during his displacement. Which regions did he travel through?
Based on the map, describe the route Abdi took during his displacement. Which regions did he travel through?
Task AB-4
Abdi was on the go for a long time and was often faced with the worst possible circumstances. You can imagine what he has been through by reading his story. Make a note on what you have learnt about his displacement and allocate them to the keywords.
Abdi was on the go for a long time and was often faced with the worst possible circumstances. You can imagine what he has been through by reading his story. Make a note on what you have learnt about his displacement and allocate them to the keywords.
Task AB- 5
The five displaced characters (Aziz, Abdi, Hayat, Malaika and Mohammed) have now arrived in a safe place. However, they are now in a place where nobody has been waiting for them. A place where they might not even be welcome. How do they cope with being in this new place? What are their opportunities, and what are their dreams? And what does reality look like? What possibilities exist to facilitate their integration in the new place?
The five displaced characters (Aziz, Abdi, Hayat, Malaika and Mohammed) have now arrived in a safe place. However, they are now in a place where nobody has been waiting for them. A place where they might not even be welcome. How do they cope with being in this new place? What are their opportunities, and what are their dreams? And what does reality look like? What possibilities exist to facilitate their integration in the new place?
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Task AB-1
Use the information on our homepage to find out what Abdi’s life was like before he was displaced. Write down your thoughts, allocate them to the four keywords and exchange them with your group members.
Task AB-2
People flee their home countries for different reasons. Get a good idea of what the situation was like in Somalia at the time when Abdi was forced to leave his home, and write down the most important key figures. Work out Abdi’s reasons for leaving his home.
Task AB-3
Based on the map, describe the route Abdi took during his displacement. Which regions did he travel through?
Task AB-4
Abdi was on the go for a long time and was often faced with the worst possible circumstances. You can imagine what he has been through by reading his story. Make a note on what you have learnt about his displacement and allocate them to the keywords.
Task AB- 5
The five displaced characters (Aziz, Abdi, Hayat, Malaika and Mohammed) have now arrived in a safe place. However, they are now in a place where nobody has been waiting for them. A place where they might not even be welcome. How do they cope with being in this new place? What are their opportunities, and what are their dreams? And what does reality look like? What possibilities exist to facilitate their integration in the new place?
«Hello. My name is Abdi Farah. I am approximately 50 years old and I am from Somalia.»
«I used to live in a village near Baraawe in Lower Shebelle in South Somalia with my wife and my three children.»
«At night, we could hear the sound of the waves. I was still a child when I started working as a fisherman off the coast of Somalia, which is one of the richest in fish in the world.»
«My wife looked after a few goats. In the evenings, we would sit together, tell each other stories and sang songs.»
15 September 2008
«One day, the Al Shabaab terrorist group attacked our village and killed our oldest son. We were very worried about our safety and fled our home immediately.»
«One day, the Al Shabaab terrorist group attacked our village and killed our oldest son. We were very worried about our safety and fled our home immediately.»
«We only took the bare essentials with us: a family photo, a walking stick, a fishing net, my Somali shawl and a wooden container to transport water.»
Fishing net from Somalia
Fishermen working off the coast of Somalia used to have a good life. However, it has become more difficult since big foreign fishing vessels started to catch a lot of fish off the shore of Somalia. Many of them had to flee as their villages were attacked by the Al Shabaab terrorist group. They lost their source of income as well as their livelihoods.
Fishermen working off the coast of Somalia used to have a good life. However, it has become more difficult since big foreign fishing vessels started to catch a lot of fish off the shore of Somalia. Many of them had to flee as their villages were attacked by the Al Shabaab terrorist group. They lost their source of income as well as their livelihoods.
Walking stick from Somalia
«Give your stick to hold only to a man from whom you can take it away again» – Somalian proverb. Such walking sticks are produced in Somalia and are still used by nomadic Somalian cattlemen.
«Give your stick to hold only to a man from whom you can take it away again» – Somalian proverb. Such walking sticks are produced in Somalia and are still used by nomadic Somalian cattlemen.
«Some friends offered us shelter. As the coast was still occupied by the terrorist group, I was no longer able to fish and fend for my family.»
«We had no choice but to marry our 14-year-old daughter to a 40-year-old relative. I hope she now has a better life and no longer needs to be hungry.»
Child marriage
Climate change-induced natural disasters such as droughts and floods have increased the number of child marriages as they reduce the number of hungry mouths in a family. Projects to stabilise food security, such as reducing the loss of food by enhancing food storage or improving the management of existing water resources, are long-term solutions in the fight against hunger.
Climate change-induced natural disasters such as droughts and floods have increased the number of child marriages as they reduce the number of hungry mouths in a family. Projects to stabilise food security, such as reducing the loss of food by enhancing food storage or improving the management of existing water resources, are long-term solutions in the fight against hunger.
WFP stands for World Food Programme. WFP is part of the United Nations (UN) and is the biggest humanitarian organisation in the world. It provides food to victims of wars, conflicts and natural disasters. Especially in Somalia, many people rely on international food aid due to armed conflict and droughts that have become more frequent due to climate change.
«As we could no longer stay with our relatives, we went to Merka where my wife gave birth to our fourth child. Despite medical help, she did not survive. Our new-born baby also died. Now I am on my own with our youngest son.»
«Distant relatives who live
in a housing estate on the outskirts of Merka offered us accommodation. Four of
us lived in a simple hut made of twigs and cloths. It frequently got flooded in
heavy rain. We slept on woven mats on the floor.»
«When I felt sick, I went to the MERKA hospital where I had to wait for a long time to be examined. I was diagnosed with tuberculosis. It is an incurable disease, which was a big shock. At least I get some medication to alleviate my coughing every once in a while.»
Woven mat from Somalia
These beautifully woven mats and baskets are made by women. They used to be part of every Somalian household. Even though many Somalian households now use plastic mats and bowls from Asia, handmade items are still highly valued and widely used.
These beautifully woven mats and baskets are made by women. They used to be part of every Somalian household. Even though many Somalian households now use plastic mats and bowls from Asia, handmade items are still highly valued and widely used.
MERKA hospital
Switzerland financially supports the MERKA hospital which provides free-of-charge medical aid for all, including internally displaced persons (displaced persons who remain in their countries of origin) like Abdi. In Somalia, there is only one doctor per 28,570 inhabitants while Switzerland has more than four doctors per 1,000 inhabitants.
«During the 2011 drought, food and drink were very scarce. In search of a better life, my son and I left again; this time we went to Mogadishu. My son became weaker and weaker and eventually died of malnutrition.»
Goats
With Switzerland’s financial support, the ICRC has alleviated the suffering of many families by giving a family two or three goats during the devastating drought in 2011.
With Switzerland’s financial support, the ICRC has alleviated the suffering of many families by giving a family two or three goats during the devastating drought in 2011.
«The housing estate in Mogadishu where I lived for almost one year was evicted. The landlord no longer wanted us there. I was forced to leave Mogadishu. I did not know where to go, however, I had heard that things were better in Afgooye, so I decided to go there. I no longer had a family to give me protection. Going to see my daughter was also not possible as she lived abroad with her husband.»
«The situation in Afgooye is not much better, however, I have no choice. I have lost my whole family and my sorrow is sometimes unbearable. It’s impossible to return to my home village as it is still controlled by the Al-Shabaab terrorist group. I don’t have enough money to pay a trafficker, and I feel far too weak to continue my journey.»
«I don’t have much hope, however, I was told that internally displaced persons, like myself, might receive more aid from the rich countries. Maybe they will help me to get my drugs again. Since I left Merka, I have not been able to get my cough medicine free of charge.»
«Fortunately, I am still able to sing my poetry. I dream about earning enough money with my songs to buy sufficient food and no longer be hungry. At night, I compose songs in my bed. The songs give me strength to get through the next day. Singing is a tradition in my country. I am respected for my songs and some people sometimes pay me for it.»
«Every once in a while, my daughter sends me money from abroad. It helps me to make ends meet, however, it doesn’t replace my daughter. I miss her a lot. She is the only precious thing I have left in my life.»
Internally displaced persons
The majority of the approximately 3 million internally displaced people live in informal camps in Somalia. These camps are often crowded and not well protected from threats such as fires or severe weather conditions. Access to clean water, sanitary facilities and medical care is very limited.
The majority of the approximately 3 million internally displaced people live in informal camps in Somalia. These camps are often crowded and not well protected from threats such as fires or severe weather conditions. Access to clean water, sanitary facilities and medical care is very limited.
Informal camps often get evicted, and around 130,000
people are affected every year. This forces the displaced persons to move to
places that are even less safe with worse living conditions.
CAATEEYE
Many a time we have been hungry.
Many a time we have suffered thirst.
Yet all in all we have not had bad luck.
Life is full of trouble, and it is short –
Short as a journey needing only on night’s rest.
Often the fare we had was meagre
But were there not times a well
Of meat and milk in plenty?
And there were days and there were nights
That can never be forgotten.
You remember them, Cutiya, don’t you?
And if God allows it
Other wonderful things like that
Are still in store for us.
Many a time we have been hungry.
Many a time we have suffered thirst.
Yet all in all we have not had bad luck.
Life is full of trouble, and it is short –
Short as a journey needing only on night’s rest.
Often the fare we had was meagre
But were there not times a well
Of meat and milk in plenty?
And there were days and there were nights
That can never be forgotten.
You remember them, Cutiya, don’t you?
And if God allows it
Other wonderful things like that
Are still in store for us.
Task HA-1
Use the information on our homepage to find out what Hayat’s life was like before she was displaced. Write down your thoughts, allocate them to the four keywords and exchange them with your group members.
Use the information on our homepage to find out what Hayat’s life was like before she was displaced. Write down your thoughts, allocate them to the four keywords and exchange them with your group members.
Task HA-2
People flee their home countries for different reasons. Get a good idea of what the situation was like in Syria at the time when Hayat was forced to leave her home, and write down the most important key figures. Work out Hayat’s reasons for leaving her home.
People flee their home countries for different reasons. Get a good idea of what the situation was like in Syria at the time when Hayat was forced to leave her home, and write down the most important key figures. Work out Hayat’s reasons for leaving her home.
Task HA-3
Based on the map, describe the route Hayat took during her displacement. Which regions did she travel through?
Based on the map, describe the route Hayat took during her displacement. Which regions did she travel through?
Task HA-4
Hayat did not leave her home alone. You can imagine what she has been through by reading her story. Make note on what you have learnt about her displacement, and allocate them to the keywords.
Hayat did not leave her home alone. You can imagine what she has been through by reading her story. Make note on what you have learnt about her displacement, and allocate them to the keywords.
Task HA-5
The five displaced characters (Aziz, Abdi, Hayat, Malaika and Mohammed) have now arrived in a safe place. However, they are now in a place where nobody has been waiting for them. A place where they might not even be welcome. How do they cope with being in this new place? What are their opportunities, and what are their dreams? And what does reality look like? What possibilities exist to facilitate their integration in the new place?
The five displaced characters (Aziz, Abdi, Hayat, Malaika and Mohammed) have now arrived in a safe place. However, they are now in a place where nobody has been waiting for them. A place where they might not even be welcome. How do they cope with being in this new place? What are their opportunities, and what are their dreams? And what does reality look like? What possibilities exist to facilitate their integration in the new place?
Scroll up
Scroll left
Scroll right
Scroll down
Task HA-1
Use the information on our homepage to find out what Hayat’s life was like before she was displaced. Write down your thoughts, allocate them to the four keywords and exchange them with your group members.
Task HA-2
People flee their home countries for different reasons. Get a good idea of what the situation was like in Syria at the time when Hayat was forced to leave her home, and write down the most important key figures. Work out Hayat’s reasons for leaving her home.
Task HA-3
Based on the map, describe the route Hayat took during her displacement. Which regions did she travel through?
Task HA-4
Hayat did not leave her home alone. You can imagine what she has been through by reading her story. Make note on what you have learnt about her displacement, and allocate them to the keywords.
Task HA-5
The five displaced characters (Aziz, Abdi, Hayat, Malaika and Mohammed) have now arrived in a safe place. However, they are now in a place where nobody has been waiting for them. A place where they might not even be welcome. How do they cope with being in this new place? What are their opportunities, and what are their dreams? And what does reality look like? What possibilities exist to facilitate their integration in the new place?
«Hello, my name is Hayat Hamid. I am 35 years old and I am from Syria.»
«I lived in a lovely apartment in Homs with my husband Fouad, our two children and my mother-in-law Rima.»
«My husband worked for a telecom company and I was a teacher at a primary school, which was near our apartment. My daughter Leilah attended second grade in the same school.»
«Early in the mornings before the pupils arrived, I enjoyed the peace and quiet in the classroom. A class with 30 girls can be incredibly noisy. However, it was nice to see how my students were sucking up the knowledge.»
«While Leilah and I were at school, my mother-in-law Rima looked after my son Hamad. We used to have lunch at home. Rima often prepared Tisqiye, the best chickpea pie. On Fridays, the whole family gathered in the countryside for a barbeque. Sometimes we were more than 40 people.»
15 September 2014
«When they started to bomb our neighbourhood, I took my children and my mother-in-law and fled to Lebanon.»
«When they started to bomb our neighbourhood, I took my children and my mother-in-law and fled to Lebanon.»
«Just before we fled, a house in our neighbourhood was bombed. Fortunately, nobody was at home. The attack was clearly targeted at a group of political activists who had stayed in our neighbourhood for a few days.»
«We were scared to be associated with these men and be arrested. We had no choice, but to flee. My husband wanted to stay in Homs. He wanted to hide and take care of our property and apartment.»
«I fled to Lebanon with my mother-in-law and my two children. We only took the bare essentials; among other things, we took a photograph of my husband Fouda, my smartphone, my teaching diploma and Leilah’s teddy bear.»
«Our hasty departure from the city involved many agonising hours of uncertainty. We took the first available taxi to the bus station from where we planned to reach Lebanon in one of the many collective taxis.»
«We had to wait for a very long time but finally, for an astronomical sum, we were able to grab a place in one of the overcrowded taxis.»
«As our taxi had to make a detour to avoid the many road blocks and checkpoints, it took us a long time to get out of the city. In the dark, we could hear shots and shelling. We were terrified.»
«Distant relatives offered us shelter in their garage, which I divided into bedroom and living room. It still feels very cramped and bare.»
«In Lebanon, UNHCR registered us as refugees. We received a monthly food voucher for USD 20, which is just enough to buy a loaf of bread every day. It may not be much but this way we can contribute to the food expenses of our relatives.»
«We have lived in the garage for years and we are a great burden for our relatives. They give us food, electricity and water and we are very grateful for it. The only thing I can do for them is help out in their small shop and in their household. But even though they are really friendly, I have the feeling that we are becoming more and more of a burden to them.»
«At home, I do some sewing work for people in the neighbourhood which gives me some income. I often get praised for my good work. In spite of everything, we are actually quite lucky to be here. Even though the electricity and water supply gets interrupted at times, we still have enough running water to survive.»
«My mother-in-law’s health is deteriorating rapidly. She suffers from diabetes. However, we don’t have enough money to buy the medication she needs regularly.»
«Our residential permit is running out soon. Without a permit, we can get arrested any time.»
«In
the North of Lebanon, several school have been rehabilitated through aid
projects. Leilah can now go back to school with other Syrian and Lebanese
children. The school is now safe and child-friendly, which is a welcome
distraction for Leilah. She often cries at night when she dreams about the
bombs.»
«However, many of Leilah’s friends still cannot go to school. They have to help their parents work and earn money. On average, every other refugee child has to work and is not able to go to school.»
«I miss my husband Fouad terribly. We don’t often get the chance to talk on the phone. I am very worried about him, but I hope that Syria will be at peace soon and we will be able to return to him.»
«International aid supports small businesses in Syria. Thanks to this aid, my husband’s cousin was able to reopen his fruit and vegetable shop in the old town of Homs. Fouad works there occasionally.»
«The first families are already returning to Syria. However, the fear of attacks and persecution as well as another displacement remains. On top of all that, the destruction of the country is significant.»
Refugee camp
There are no official refugee camps for Syrian refugees in Lebanon. People are spread across the country and live in apartments, collective centres, semi-finished houses, garages, warehouses or tented settlements. The average rent is approximately USD 164 per month (2015).
There are no official refugee camps for Syrian refugees in Lebanon. People are spread across the country and live in apartments, collective centres, semi-finished houses, garages, warehouses or tented settlements. The average rent is approximately USD 164 per month (2015).
Prayer mat
Hayat is Muslim and prays every day. Praying is one of Islam’s five pillars. Five times a day - at sunrise, at noon, in the afternoon, at sunset and in the late evening - worshippers lay out their prayer mats towards Mecca, the holiest site of Islam, and pray.
Hayat is Muslim and prays every day. Praying is one of Islam’s five pillars. Five times a day - at sunrise, at noon, in the afternoon, at sunset and in the late evening - worshippers lay out their prayer mats towards Mecca, the holiest site of Islam, and pray.
Poverty
Despite the assistance of humanitarian organisations, many Syrian refugees can hardly make ends meet. The host country Lebanon is also reaching its limits. In 2017, 76 percent of the Syrian refugees in Lebanon lived below the poverty line (USD 3.84 per day). Additionally, more than half of them lived in extreme poverty.
Despite the assistance of humanitarian organisations, many Syrian refugees can hardly make ends meet. The host country Lebanon is also reaching its limits. In 2017, 76 percent of the Syrian refugees in Lebanon lived below the poverty line (USD 3.84 per day). Additionally, more than half of them lived in extreme poverty.
Runner
beans
Barbunya Fasulye is Turkish and means runner bean. They are produced by the Turkish food manufacturer DURU. The company was set up in 1935 with headquarters in Karaman in central Anatolia. Even though Lebanon is rich in water, the farmers cannot compete with the cheap products from Turkey and Egypt. Hence, many food products in Lebanon are imported from Turkey.
Barbunya Fasulye is Turkish and means runner bean. They are produced by the Turkish food manufacturer DURU. The company was set up in 1935 with headquarters in Karaman in central Anatolia. Even though Lebanon is rich in water, the farmers cannot compete with the cheap products from Turkey and Egypt. Hence, many food products in Lebanon are imported from Turkey.
Water scarcity
The Lebanese authorities are increasingly struggling to meet the basic needs of the refugees and the local population. For this reason, Switzerland supports the local authorities to establish a sustainable water management system for the locals as well as the refugees. The refugees are actually not the only challenge the local water authorities are faced with. The water management systems were already bad before the crisis and years of neglect has led to faulty infrastructure and unsatisfactory management.
The Lebanese authorities are increasingly struggling to meet the basic needs of the refugees and the local population. For this reason, Switzerland supports the local authorities to establish a sustainable water management system for the locals as well as the refugees. The refugees are actually not the only challenge the local water authorities are faced with. The water management systems were already bad before the crisis and years of neglect has led to faulty infrastructure and unsatisfactory management.
Medication
Rofenac D is a pain killer, produced in Saudi Arabia and sold in Lebanon. After many years of armed conflict, it has become increasingly difficult to pay for medication.
In Lebanon, 20 tablets cost 8,468 Lebanese Pound which equates to CHF 5.70. After six years of war, many refugees are no longer able to afford medication. They have used up all their savings and need the USD 20 cash vouchers to buy bread, soap and other essentials.
Rofenac D is a pain killer, produced in Saudi Arabia and sold in Lebanon. After many years of armed conflict, it has become increasingly difficult to pay for medication.
In Lebanon, 20 tablets cost 8,468 Lebanese Pound which equates to CHF 5.70. After six years of war, many refugees are no longer able to afford medication. They have used up all their savings and need the USD 20 cash vouchers to buy bread, soap and other essentials.
Regulations
Due to the strict regulations, Syrian refugees often do not have a valid residential permit. They are at risk of getting arrested any time. They have very limited access to essential services and in case of abuse, they have no right to protection by the authorities.
Due to the strict regulations, Syrian refugees often do not have a valid residential permit. They are at risk of getting arrested any time. They have very limited access to essential services and in case of abuse, they have no right to protection by the authorities.
Switzerland rehabilitates schools
Switzerland has rehabilitated schools in northern Lebanon since 2014. Children who fled Syria with their parents as well as Lebanese children benefit from this project. The rehabilitation project aims to prevent the young people from becoming a lost generation. Until 2018, it enabled a total of 6,000 additional pupils to go to a rehabilitated school.
03 Z-3ha
Uncertain situation
The average length of time people spent in uncertain situation is 17 years. Access to education and training prevents yet another generation from growing up without perspectives. Life in uncertainty and extreme poverty reduces young people’s access to education and economic opportunities. They hardly have the chance to participate in social and civil life and feel powerless and frustrated. The human capital of the new generation which is essential for the future of the region runs the risk of getting lost.
The average length of time people spent in uncertain situation is 17 years. Access to education and training prevents yet another generation from growing up without perspectives. Life in uncertainty and extreme poverty reduces young people’s access to education and economic opportunities. They hardly have the chance to participate in social and civil life and feel powerless and frustrated. The human capital of the new generation which is essential for the future of the region runs the risk of getting lost.
Genfer Konvention
Geneva Convention
At the beginning of the 20th century, the League of Nations, the predecessor of the United Nations, started to develop an international law for the protection of refugees. The “Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees”, which is the original title of the Geneva Convention, was adopted on 28 July 1951. The 1967 Protocol gave it international validity.
Until today, the Geneva Convention is the most important international legal document for the protection of refugees. The Convention determines who is legally accepted as a refugee and what right and obligations refugees have in their host countries. Certain groups of people such as war criminals are excluded from obtaining refugee status.
In total, 148 states have signed the Geneva Convention and/or the 1967 Protocol.
In total, 148 states have signed the Geneva Convention and/or the 1967 Protocol.
International Schutzb.
In need of international protection
Refugees are also referred to as persons in need of international protection. People who are not persecuted, but would face serious threats such as armed conflict, riots, environmental and natural disasters upon their return are also described as persons in need of international protection. Unlike people who emigrate for purely economic reasons, stateless persons, just like refugees, cannot claim protection in their home country.
Humanitäres Visum
Humanitarian Visa
Persons who are directly and seriously threatened in their country of origin or legal residence can apply for a humanitarian visa at the Swiss representation and obtain permission to enter Switzerland to start an asylum process. As a rule, such visa applications are only possible in the country of origin, but not in third countries.
Flüchtling
Refugee
Refugees are people who have been forced to leave their home countries in fear of being persecuted because of their religion, nationality, ethnic origin, political view or affiliation to a specific social group. The asylum procedure determines whether a person is a refugee and should not return to their countries of origin.
The chart shows refugees, including persons who live in refugee-like situations (source: UNHCR 2023).
The chart shows refugees, including persons who live in refugee-like situations (source: UNHCR 2023).
Migrant/in
Migrants
Migrants leave their home country in search for a better life, to find work or for personal reasons. They are able to return to their home country without being faced with a threat. While nations are largely free to decide on the admission of migrants, international agreements oblige them to guarantee the protection of refugees. Most migrants enter their country of residence legally. Those, however, who do not have the possibility can only reach it via dangerous routes and with the help of traffickers.
Globaler Pakt Fl.
Global Pact on Refugees
In December 2018, the United National General Assembly adopted the Global Pact on Refugees. The pact aims at improving the response to future refugee movements and finding sustainable solutions through international cooperation and solidarity.
Its four key objectives are to:
1. ease the pressures on host countries;
2. enhance refugee self-reliance;
3. expand access to third-country solutions;
4. support conditions in countries of origin for return in safety and dignity.
Its four key objectives are to:
1. ease the pressures on host countries;
2. enhance refugee self-reliance;
3. expand access to third-country solutions;
4. support conditions in countries of origin for return in safety and dignity.
Binnenvertriebene
Internally displaced persons (IDPs)
IDPs are people or groups of people who have been forced to leave their homes due to armed conflict, general violence, human rights violations or natural disasters. These people have not crossed a national border.
Komplemtärer Schutz
Komplementärer oder subsidiärer Schutz
Als „komplementären“ oder „subsidiärer Schutz“ bezeichnet man den Schutzstatus,
der international schutzbedürftigen Personen gewährt wird, die keinen
Flüchtlingsschutz erhalten. Einen solchen Status gibt es im nationalen Recht
vieler Staaten und auch im EU Recht. In der Schweiz gibt es einen solchen
Status dagegen bisher nicht. International schutzbedürftige Personen erhalten
eine vorläufige Aufnahme.
Die Einführung des subsidiären Schutzes wird
allerdings von vielen Experten und Organisationen, so auch EKM und UNHCR,
gefordert. Auch der Bundesrat setzt sich für die Schaffung eines solchen Status
ein.
Nasen Initiative
Nansen Initiative
The Nansen Initiative was launched in October 2012 by Switzerland and Norway and adopted at the end of 2015. The initiative aims at improving the protection of people who were forcibly displaced by natural disaster. The next step is the implementation of the Agenda for Protection which comprises the findings and conclusions of the Nansen Initiative.
For this, the Platform on Disaster Displacement was created. It was launched at the World Humanitarian Summit in Istanbul in May 2016 and commenced its work under Germany’s presidency in July of the same year. Switzerland will continue to actively contribute to the development of the Nansen Initiative and support the implementation of the Agenda for Protection as member of the platform.
For this, the Platform on Disaster Displacement was created. It was launched at the World Humanitarian Summit in Istanbul in May 2016 and commenced its work under Germany’s presidency in July of the same year. Switzerland will continue to actively contribute to the development of the Nansen Initiative and support the implementation of the Agenda for Protection as member of the platform.
Staatenlose
Stateless persons
Stateless persons are not considered as a national by any state. Statelessness is a major global problem, however, its extent and consequences for the affected find little recognition. Statelessness is a politically sensitive issue. Many governments have not conducted an accurate census of those affected. According to recent studies, there are approximately ten million stateless people across the globe. They cannot only be found in developing countries, but also in industrialised countries. People can be stateless for various reasons such as discrimination, loopholes in a state’s citizenship law or the disintegration of states.
Stateless persons do not have many rights in the countries they live in and are significantly disadvantaged. They are denied simple things like access to schools or workplace, getting married, travelling or owning property. In many countries, it is very difficult for them to get hospital treatment, file a lawsuit or open a bank account. From a legal point of view, these people only exist in an underworld. They are hardly visible outsiders in a society.
Non Revoulment
Non-Refoulement Principle
Non-Refoulement is a fundamental principle of international law that forbids a country receiving asylum seekers from returning them to a country in which they would be in likely danger of persecution. The Geneva Convention states:
Art. 33: «Prohibition of Expulsion or Return»
(1) No Contracting State shall expel or return ('refouler’) a refugee in any manner whatsoever to the frontiers of territories where her/his life or freedom would be threatened on account of race, religion, nationality, membership of a particular social group or political opinion.
Art. 33: «Prohibition of Expulsion or Return»
(1) No Contracting State shall expel or return ('refouler’) a refugee in any manner whatsoever to the frontiers of territories where her/his life or freedom would be threatened on account of race, religion, nationality, membership of a particular social group or political opinion.
(2) The benefit of the present provision may not, however, be claimed by a refugee whom there are reasonable grounds for regarding as a danger to the security of the country in which she/he is, or who, having been convicted by a final judgment of a particularly serious crime, constitutes a danger to the community of that country.
Similar Refoulement obligations are laid down in other human rights treaties such as the European Convention of Human Rights.
The Federal Constitution adopts this principle in Article 24.
Similar Refoulement obligations are laid down in other human rights treaties such as the European Convention of Human Rights.
The Federal Constitution adopts this principle in Article 24.
Task MO-1
Use the information on our homepage to find out what Mohammed’s life was like before he was displaced. Write down your thoughts, allocate them to the four keywords and exchange them with your group members.
Use the information on our homepage to find out what Mohammed’s life was like before he was displaced. Write down your thoughts, allocate them to the four keywords and exchange them with your group members.
Task MO-2
People flee their home countries for different reasons. Get a good idea of what the situation was like in Syria at the time when Mohammed was forced to leave his home, and write down the most important key figures. Work out Mohammed’s reasons for leaving his home.
People flee their home countries for different reasons. Get a good idea of what the situation was like in Syria at the time when Mohammed was forced to leave his home, and write down the most important key figures. Work out Mohammed’s reasons for leaving his home.
Task MO-3
Based on the map, describe the route Mohammed took during his displacement. Which regions did he travel through?
Based on the map, describe the route Mohammed took during his displacement. Which regions did he travel through?
Task MO-4
Mohammed has had some horrible experiences before he was forced to flee. You can imagine what he has been through by reading his story. Make a note on what you have learnt about his displacement and allocate them to the keywords.
Mohammed has had some horrible experiences before he was forced to flee. You can imagine what he has been through by reading his story. Make a note on what you have learnt about his displacement and allocate them to the keywords.
Task MO-5
The five displaced characters (Aziz, Abdi, Hayat, Malaika and Mohammed) have now arrived in a safe place. However, they are now in a place where nobody has been waiting for them. A place where they might not even be welcome. How do they cope with being in this new place? What are their opportunities, and what are their dreams? And what does reality look like? What possibilities exist to facilitate their integration in the new place?
The five displaced characters (Aziz, Abdi, Hayat, Malaika and Mohammed) have now arrived in a safe place. However, they are now in a place where nobody has been waiting for them. A place where they might not even be welcome. How do they cope with being in this new place? What are their opportunities, and what are their dreams? And what does reality look like? What possibilities exist to facilitate their integration in the new place?
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Scroll left
Scroll right
Scroll down
Task MO-1
Use the information on our homepage to find out what Mohammed’s life was like before he was displaced. Write down your thoughts, allocate them to the four keywords and exchange them with your group members.
Task MO-2
People flee their home countries for different reasons. Get a good idea of what the situation was like in Syria at the time when Mohammed was forced to leave his home, and write down the most important key figures. Work out Mohammed’s reasons for leaving his home.
Task MO-3
Based on the map, describe the route Mohammed took during his displacement. Which regions did he travel through?
Task MO-4
Mohammed has had some horrible experiences before he was forced to flee. You can imagine what he has been through by reading his story. Make a note on what you have learnt about his displacement and allocate them to the keywords.
Task MO-5
The five displaced characters (Aziz, Abdi, Hayat, Malaika and Mohammed) have now arrived in a safe place. However, they are now in a place where nobody has been waiting for them. A place where they might not even be welcome. How do they cope with being in this new place? What are their opportunities, and what are their dreams? And what does reality look like? What possibilities exist to facilitate their integration in the new place?
«Hello, my name is Mohammed Abdulla. I am 34 years old and I am from Syria. My wife Batoul and I have two children, Walid and Amina.»
«We used to live in Homs. Before the war broke out, Homs was a vibrant city. We could have never imagined that we would have to leave our home one day. I had a good job as an engineer, and my wife Batoul was a nurse.»
«Our offspring Walid developed splendidly and even our daughter Amina had a carefree life despite her congenital heart defect. We had everything we needed. We had a house, enough food on the table and lots of friends who visited us.»
«While taking part in a peaceful demonstration against the Syrian government, I was arrested by security forces and put into prison. I was beaten and humiliated every day. Several times a night, men would come into my cell and pour a bucket of water over my head.»
«I was unlawfully kept in prison and tortured. They even used electric shocks and beat me with a stick. I was suspected of being a political activist, and they wanted information from me. However, as I was unable to provide any information and there was no evidence against me, they released me eventually. The time in prison was hell for me and broke my soul.»
13 April 2012
«I was very scared, I desperately wanted to leave Syria. We only took the bare essentials with us: a mobile phone, some clothes, medication as well as our Syrian passports. Just before we reached the Lebanese border, we were stopped by five men. They pointed Kalashnikovs at us and demanded a lot of money for allowing us to continue our journey. We had enough money to pay them, however, this payment has depleted all our savings.»
«I was very scared, I desperately wanted to leave Syria. We only took the bare essentials with us: a mobile phone, some clothes, medication as well as our Syrian passports. Just before we reached the Lebanese border, we were stopped by five men. They pointed Kalashnikovs at us and demanded a lot of money for allowing us to continue our journey. We had enough money to pay them, however, this payment has depleted all our savings.»
«Shortly after we had arrived at my wife’s cousin’s place, we registered as refugees with UNHCR. With their financial support, our last savings and the help from our relatives, we barely made ends meet.”
«After having lived in Lebanon for two years, UNHCR selected us for their resettlement programme as I had been unable to recover from the trauma of the torture. There was little medical and psychological care, and I was living in constant fear. We did not have a right of residence in Lebanon.»
«My daughter’s health is deteriorating rapidly as we can no longer afford the medication to treat her heart condition.»
«We have heard many stories about families who used traffickers to reach Europe. Many of them died during their illegal attempt, or they were caught somewhere along the route.»
«Thanks to the resettlement programme, we can go to Europe legally. Even though we were already informed about life in Switzerland when we were still in Lebanon, it is hard to imagine what life will really be like in such a different culture. We could hardly believe our luck. In Switzerland, we can start a new life.»
Iris Scanner
UNHCR works with such an iris scanner in Lebanon. Apart from recording biodata, iris scanning is an integral part of the registration process for refugees. Iris scanning helps establish the clear identification of a person.
UNHCR works with such an iris scanner in Lebanon. Apart from recording biodata, iris scanning is an integral part of the registration process for refugees. Iris scanning helps establish the clear identification of a person.
Rapidus 50 is a medication against migraine and post traumatic symptoms. The drug is produced in Saudi Arabia and sold in Lebanon. It costs 8,774 Lebanese pounds, which equates CHF 5.70. After six weeks of war, many refugees can no longer afford medication. They have used up their savings; they no longer have an income; and they need the USD 20 cash voucher for bread, soap and other essentials.
«My daughter’s health is deteriorating rapidly as we can no longer afford the medication to treat her heart condition.»
«As we had already been recognised refugees, we were spared further interviews, and we were allowed to participate in language and integration courses.»
«Eight months later, we moved into a three-room-flat. Our children started going to school after absolving a four-month intensive German course. Unfortunately, my diploma as electrical engineer is not recognised in Switzerland, and even though I would like to be useful here, I can’t find work. As soon as my German improves I want to do a training as electrical engineer.»
«My wife Batoul would like to work as a nurse, however, her training is not recognised here either. We hope that our supervisor will help us find a suitable job. At least Batoul can do the shopping for the elderly people in our neighbourhood and improve her German this way.»
«My depression makes learning German more difficult. It takes a lot of patience. The children already speak German fluently and have made many friends. They have integrated well and I am very grateful for this. We miss our relatives in Syria and worry about those who are left behind.»
Hygiene kit
Newly arrived asylum seekers are first admitted to a federal asylum centre, where every asylum seeker receives a set of hygiene items (hygiene kit). It contains a toothbrush, toothpaste, shower gel, shampoo and depending on the gender a shaving set or sanitary towels.
Newly arrived asylum seekers are first admitted to a federal asylum centre, where every asylum seeker receives a set of hygiene items (hygiene kit). It contains a toothbrush, toothpaste, shower gel, shampoo and depending on the gender a shaving set or sanitary towels.
Federal asylum centres
As refugees generally stay in the federal asylum centres for a short period, children of asylum seekers do not go to school there. However, they can take German courses. As soon as the families are moved to a canton, the children will be enrolled in a normal school.
As refugees generally stay in the federal asylum centres for a short period, children of asylum seekers do not go to school there. However, they can take German courses. As soon as the families are moved to a canton, the children will be enrolled in a normal school.
Asylsuchende/r
Asylum seekers
An asylum seeker is a person who applies for asylum - admission and the right to protection – in a country they are not a national of and whose asylum process is still ongoing.
Resettlement
Resettlement
Resettlement is the transfer of refugees from an asylum country to another country that has agreed to admit them, ultimately grants them permanent settlement and gives them the opportunity to integrate. Apart from voluntary return and integration in the first country of admission, resettlement is one of three sustainable solutions for refugees.
South Sudan
When South Sudan gained independence from Sudan in July 2011, it became the youngest state in the world. Around 95 percent of state income stems from oil production. The capital is Juba.
Capital Juba
Capital Juba
In 2013, a civil war broke out in South Sudan with the aim of toppling the government. The violent crimes were directed at certain ethnic groups.
This armed conflict led to the displacement of around 2.3 million people, which is the equivalent of roughly one third of the population of Switzerland.
About half of South Sudan’s population currently depends on food aid.
Did you know?
Until recently, the number of livestock per person in South Sudan was one of the highest in the world.
Task MA-1
Use the information on our homepage to find out what Malaika’s life was like before she was displaced. Write down your thoughts, allocate them to the four keywords and exchange them with your group members.
Use the information on our homepage to find out what Malaika’s life was like before she was displaced. Write down your thoughts, allocate them to the four keywords and exchange them with your group members.
Task MA-2
People flee their home countries for different reasons. Get a good idea of what the situation was like in South Sudan at the time when Malaika was forced to leave her home, and write down the most important key figures. Work out Malaika’s reasons for leaving her home.
People flee their home countries for different reasons. Get a good idea of what the situation was like in South Sudan at the time when Malaika was forced to leave her home, and write down the most important key figures. Work out Malaika’s reasons for leaving her home.
Task MA-3
Based on the map, describe the route Malaika took during her displacement. Which regions did she travel through?
Based on the map, describe the route Malaika took during her displacement. Which regions did she travel through?
Task MA-4
Malaika was on the go for a long time and was faced with the worst possible circumstances. You can imagine what she has been through by reading her story. Make a note on what you have learnt about her displacement and allocate them to the keywords.
Malaika was on the go for a long time and was faced with the worst possible circumstances. You can imagine what she has been through by reading her story. Make a note on what you have learnt about her displacement and allocate them to the keywords.
Task MA-5
The five displaced characters (Aziz, Abdi, Hayat, Malaika and Mohammed) have now arrived in a safe place. However, they are now in a place where nobody has been waiting for them. A place where they might not even be welcome. How do they cope with being in this new place? What are their opportunities, and what are their dreams? And what does reality look like? What possibilities exist to facilitate their integration in the new place?
The five displaced characters (Aziz, Abdi, Hayat, Malaika and Mohammed) have now arrived in a safe place. However, they are now in a place where nobody has been waiting for them. A place where they might not even be welcome. How do they cope with being in this new place? What are their opportunities, and what are their dreams? And what does reality look like? What possibilities exist to facilitate their integration in the new place?
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Task MA-1
Use the information on our homepage to find out what Malaika’s life was like before she was displaced. Write down your thoughts, allocate them to the four keywords and exchange them with your group members.
Task MA-2
People flee their home countries for different reasons. Get a good idea of what the situation was like in South Sudan at the time when Malaika was forced to leave her home, and write down the most important key figures. Work out Malaika’s reasons for leaving her home.
Task MA-3
Based on the map, describe the route Malaika took during her displacement. Which regions did she travel through?
Task MA-4
Malaika was on the go for a long time and was faced with the worst possible circumstances. You can imagine what she has been through by reading her story. Make a note on what you have learnt about her displacement and allocate them to the keywords.
Task MA-5
The five displaced characters (Aziz, Abdi, Hayat, Malaika and Mohammed) have now arrived in a safe place. However, they are now in a place where nobody has been waiting for them. A place where they might not even be welcome. How do they cope with being in this new place? What are their opportunities, and what are their dreams? And what does reality look like? What possibilities exist to facilitate their integration in the new place?
Maleika
«Hello, my name is Mailaika Awuor Deng Garang. I am 16 years old and I am from South Sudan.»
«Together with my parents and
my siblings, I used to live in a village on the edge of the Sudd, a swamp in
the North of our country.»
«My family belongs to the ethnic group of the Dinka.»
«My father looked after a few cows, and my mother kept a few goats to support our family.»
«My mother also sold homemade millet beer at the weekly market. Sometimes, I was allowed to accompany her, and once I secretly took a sip of the beer.»
«I miss my friends. We often made necklaces from coloured seeds.»
Seed necklaces
Seed necklaces from South Sudan
Such necklaces made from seeds and other natural materials are very common in East and West Africa. Women usually make them for themselves or sell them on the local market or to distributors.”
Seed necklaces from South Sudan
Such necklaces made from seeds and other natural materials are very common in East and West Africa. Women usually make them for themselves or sell them on the local market or to distributors.”
15 September 2014
«After our village was attacked, we were forced to flee. My parents and two of my siblings were killed in the first attack. My two younger brothers and I were able to flee to safety in the bush.»
«After our village was attacked, we were forced to flee. My parents and two of my siblings were killed in the first attack. My two younger brothers and I were able to flee to safety in the bush.»
«When I was on my usual round to collect firewood, I heard screams. I immediately hurried back. This time, the soldiers had found our hideout in the bush. My brothers were gone without a trace.»
«After having looked for them for hours on end, I found out that my brothers had been kidnapped. As I was very scared that they would also recruit me, I was forced to leave.»
«For this reason, I joined a group of young people who were on their way to the Kakuma refugee camp in Kenya.»
«I only took the bare essentials with me: provisions wrapped up in a cloth, a plastic sheet to protect me from the rain, my flip flops, a few clothes and a small water container.»
«Most of the water I drank during my journey was very dirty.»
«I lived through some traumatic experiences on the trip. One evening, when I was looking for firewood on my own, I was attacked and raped.»
«It was the worst thing I have ever experienced. I still find it difficult to talk about it.»
1,200 km to Kakuma
Flip flops are very common in South Sudan. Most people were plastic flip flops because they are cheaper. Leather flip flops are something special.
Flip flops are very common in South Sudan. Most people were plastic flip flops because they are cheaper. Leather flip flops are something special.
«After walking through the bush and savannah for several weeks, I finally arrived at the Kakuma refugee camp.»
«At the Kakuma refugee camp, I was asked for my name, age and home country. Even though I do not own any identification papers, my features and tattoos are a clear indication that I am a Dinka from South Sudan.»
«After my fingerprints were
taken, I received a ration card for food and water. I was allocated a bed in a
separate section for unaccompanied girls.»
«As I had been suffering from morning sickness for several weeks, I went to the hospital where I was told that I was pregnant. It was a big shock for me. This must have happened when I was raped.»
«Due to my pregnancy, I got
another ration card, which I could use for buying fresh foods in various small
shops in the camp.»
«I share the hut with other women. We cook together on a solar cooker and alternate the water collection duty. I am so happy to have this solar cooker. It means that we do not need to collect wood so frequently, which keeps us safe.»
«When I cook, I often chat with other women. They give me good advice for my pregnancy.»
«As the camps are badly lit, I avoid being out on my own at night. I am scared of getting attacked in the dark. The solar street lights in central places give me a little bit more confidence and allow me to go to the toilet at night.»
«During a camp event, I saw a presentation of the Skills for Life training programme for which I registered immediately. Now I am able to read and write and calculate, and I am in the process of training to be a tailor.»
«Rumours are circulating that the Kenyan government wants to close the camp. I would love to return to my home country and look for my brothers. However, as long as the civil war rages, it is too dangerous to go back.»
«I also worry about the future. I am even considering accepting Moses’ marriage proposal. He is already 45 years old, and I am not in love with him. However, he could support me and protect me and my child.»
Unaccompanied children
At the onset of a war, children often run away and are separated from their parents. Without them, they are even more vulnerable and less protected from child labour, forced recruitment, abuse, etc. Family reunions provide these unaccompanied children with more protection and give them new perspectives. In South Sudan alone, about 11,000 children are missing or unaccompanied.
At the onset of a war, children often run away and are separated from their parents. Without them, they are even more vulnerable and less protected from child labour, forced recruitment, abuse, etc. Family reunions provide these unaccompanied children with more protection and give them new perspectives. In South Sudan alone, about 11,000 children are missing or unaccompanied.
Organisations such as the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) support the search for missing children and advocate for the reunion of surviving family members. Looking for family members in refugee camps is often done via megaphone.
UNHCR and its partners meet the basic needs of the refugees. They provide accommodation, water, food, medical care and primary education.
In Kakuma, more than 180,000 refugees live in four sectors. Most of them are from South Sudan, Somalia and Sudan.
The camp is almost like a city: there are 22 schools, two hospitals and many shops. However, it is a city nobody is allowed to leave.
Food vouchers from Kakuma/Kenya
This card entitles people in the refugee camp to get food rations. When they collect their food items, the card is punched to make sure rations are not picked up more than once. Each household receives one card, taking into account the size of the household. Name and the number of people in the household are noted down on the back of the card. In future,
This card entitles people in the refugee camp to get food rations. When they collect their food items, the card is punched to make sure rations are not picked up more than once. Each household receives one card, taking into account the size of the household. Name and the number of people in the household are noted down on the back of the card. In future,
Jerry cans
The water for the Kakuma refugee camp is pumped up from the ground. Refugees can collect their daily water rations of 20 litres per person from the common well with a jerry can. In Switzerland, the average daily water consumption per person is 160 litres.
The water for the Kakuma refugee camp is pumped up from the ground. Refugees can collect their daily water rations of 20 litres per person from the common well with a jerry can. In Switzerland, the average daily water consumption per person is 160 litres.
Sexual assaults
Unfortunately, it is not uncommon that women and children get sexually assaulted when collecting firewood. The attackers can be violent gangs or soldiers at the checkpoints. Snakes and other wild animals, landmines or unexploded remnants of war (ERW) threaten their lives when going out for wood every day. Collecting firewood in a group helps protect against sexual assaults, abductions and wild animals.
Unfortunately, it is not uncommon that women and children get sexually assaulted when collecting firewood. The attackers can be violent gangs or soldiers at the checkpoints. Snakes and other wild animals, landmines or unexploded remnants of war (ERW) threaten their lives when going out for wood every day. Collecting firewood in a group helps protect against sexual assaults, abductions and wild animals.
Meals for a family of five and six people can be prepared on these solar cookers. Cardboard is wrapped in aluminium foil to reflect the sun’s rays onto a black pot which is surrounded by a heat-resistant ‘oven bag’ that prevents loss of heat. Simple solar cookers can be assembled locally (USD 12–15). Up to 20% firewood can be saved with these stoves.
Hygiene items
Displaced women often do not have access to sanitary towels and other hygiene items. Menstruation becomes a threat. Many women get sick because they have to use their sanitary towels multiple times; they cannot wash them properly; or they are forced to use dirty cloths. Hence, women are given menstruation kits containing a clean kettle, a washing line, pegs, soap and reusable sanitary towels. These reusable sanitary towels can be washed and reused up to 12 times. The instruction of the kits are in visuals as many women are still not allowed to go to school and are unable to read and write. At the same time, the visual language overcomes language barriers.
Displaced women often do not have access to sanitary towels and other hygiene items. Menstruation becomes a threat. Many women get sick because they have to use their sanitary towels multiple times; they cannot wash them properly; or they are forced to use dirty cloths. Hence, women are given menstruation kits containing a clean kettle, a washing line, pegs, soap and reusable sanitary towels. These reusable sanitary towels can be washed and reused up to 12 times. The instruction of the kits are in visuals as many women are still not allowed to go to school and are unable to read and write. At the same time, the visual language overcomes language barriers.
Solar lamp
Malaika does not feel safe when she goes to the toilet at night. Fortunately, the solar street lights give her more confidence and a better sense of security. She is glad that she has a small solar lamp in her hut. During the day, the sun charges the solar camping lamp.”
Malaika does not feel safe when she goes to the toilet at night. Fortunately, the solar street lights give her more confidence and a better sense of security. She is glad that she has a small solar lamp in her hut. During the day, the sun charges the solar camping lamp.”
Dresses
Malaika was able to join the Skills for Life training programme and trained to be a tailor. Among other things, she learned how to make such colourful dresses. She wants to be a designer and set up her own business one day. The Skills for Life programme was launched by SDC in cooperation with Swisscontact. This programme offers training for various professions. Learning a profession will enable the refugees to earn their own living later on.
Malaika was able to join the Skills for Life training programme and trained to be a tailor. Among other things, she learned how to make such colourful dresses. She wants to be a designer and set up her own business one day. The Skills for Life programme was launched by SDC in cooperation with Swisscontact. This programme offers training for various professions. Learning a profession will enable the refugees to earn their own living later on.
Schliessung
Camp closure
Due to limited international support, the closure of the camp is repeatedly discussed. If the camp is closed, many refugees will have to return to a place that bears many dangers for them. The international community advocates for keeping the camp open and negotiates with the Kenyan government about it.”
UN Secretary-General meets President of Kenya (26. Januar 2018, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia)
Due to limited international support, the closure of the camp is repeatedly discussed. If the camp is closed, many refugees will have to return to a place that bears many dangers for them. The international community advocates for keeping the camp open and negotiates with the Kenyan government about it.”
UN Secretary-General meets President of Kenya (26. Januar 2018, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia)
Somalia
Around 70 percent of the population lives off agriculture.
For twenty years, the people of Somalia suffered under civil war triggered by the overthrow of the dictator in 1991. Reasons for the war included clan rivalry, conflicts over political power, scarce drinking water and land.
The central government was established in 2012 with international assistance. Somalia's progress towards stability has been slow. Fighting and attacks on communities by the Al-Shabaab terrorist group and clan violence are widespread. In addition, the region suffered an 8-year drought, followed by floods in 2023.
More than 0.8 million people have fled Somalia as a result of armed conflicts and natural disasters. Another 3 million or so have been displaced within the country.
Did you know?
Somalia has successfully set up a modern, robust mobile phone network.
Lebanon
Until the late 1960s, Lebanon was considered to be the 'Switzerland of the Middle East'. It was later beset by various conflicts.
The capital is Beirut.
The capital is Beirut.
Lebanon recognises 18 different religions, while Switzerland only recognises four.
This small country is the second largest host of refugees per capita. In the past, it has shown remarkable generosity in welcoming those in need. However, the high numbers of refugees place a huge burden on the country.
Lebanon is in the throes of a serious economic crisis, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and the 2020 Beirut explosion, with an estimated 9 out of 10 refugees now living in extreme poverty.
Did you know?
The singer Shakira has Lebanese roots. Her father is from Lebanon.
Syria
Damascus, capital of Syria, is more than 7,000 years old. Before the war, one third of the working population was employed in the industrial sector.
In 2011, peaceful protests against the Syrian regime triggered a civil war in the wake of the Arab Spring.
These protests escalated and quickly turned into an armed conflict. The city of Homs became one of the first cities to be heavily bombarded. Some neighbourhoods are now completely destroyed.
Due to the armed conflict, more than 6.3 million people have been displaced. This is the equivalent of roughly 3/4 of the population of Switzerland.
Did you know?
Syria, together with neighbouring countries, is considered the birthplace of Mesopotamia, the first civilisation in the world.
Protection Status S
In March 2022, many protection seekers from Ukraine left their home country because of the war. They were granted the protection status S in Switzerland. This means a quick right of residence without having to go through a proper asylum procedure.
The S permit is limited to a maximum of one year, but can be extended. After five years, persons in need of protection may receive a B residence permit, which is valid until the temporary protection is lifted.
Persons who are granted protection status S may travel abroad and return to Switzerland without a travel permit. They may engage in gainful employment (including self-employment) immediately.
The S permit is limited to a maximum of one year, but can be extended. After five years, persons in need of protection may receive a B residence permit, which is valid until the temporary protection is lifted.
Persons who are granted protection status S may travel abroad and return to Switzerland without a travel permit. They may engage in gainful employment (including self-employment) immediately.
Afghanistan
Around 75% of Afghans live in rural areas compared to just 16% of Swiss people who live in the countryside.
The capital is Kabul.
The capital is Kabul.
For large swathes of the population, the only way to escape the protracted crisis was to flee. Although the armed conflict has subsided since 2021, the humanitarian situation for civilians, which was already dire, has deteriorated further.
Since seizing power in 2021, the Taliban have almost completely eliminated women and girls from public life and education.
Since the late 1970s, 6.4 million people have been displaced due to the ongoing humanitarian crisis. A further 4.1 million people have also been displaced within the country. The total exceeds the entire population of Switzerland.
Photo: Afghan Refugees work in Iran
Photo: Afghan Refugees work in Iran
Did you know?
The carrot originates from Afghanistan.
Myanmar
In 1989, Burma was renamed Myanmar. Myanmar is ethnically highly diverse.
The capital is Naypyidaw.
The capital is Naypyidaw.
Ethnic conflicts in the state of Rakhine resulted in the displacement of the Rohingya Muslim minority.
Since the end of 2017, the Rohingya Muslim minority has been the sixth largest refugee group in the world.
In total, more than 1.25 million Rohingyas are believed to have left Myanmar and fled to neighbouring countries. This is the equivalent of around 13% of the population of Switzerland.
Did you know?
The blood-red ruby, one of the most precious-coloured gemstones, originates from Myanmar, formerly known as Burma.
Ukraine
Agriculture is essential to the Ukrainian economy. Prior to 24 February 2022, Ukraine supplied over half of the world's sunflower oil and more than 10% of wheat, barley and maize.
The capital is Kyiv.
The capital is Kyiv.
On 24 February 2022, Russia attacked Ukraine.
Some 6.2 million people have fled and sought refuge in neighbouring countries and the rest of Europe. A further 6.2 million people have also been displaced within the country.
Around 90% of those displaced are women and children. Many elderly and disabled people are unable to flee and remain in their place of residence. The men are away fighting on the frontline.
Did you know?
Although the official language is Ukrainian, Ukraine remains a linguistically diverse country. Approximately 20 languages are spoken and some 18% of Ukrainians also speak English.
Colombia
Colombia is major coffee and cocoa-producing country. Colombia has experienced a series of armed conflicts throughout its history.
The capital is Bogotá.
The capital is Bogotá.
Despite the peace agreement signed in 2016, violence and armed conflict have continued in Colombia.
The presence of landmines across large areas of the country endangers lives and interferes with farming and infrastructure development.
As a result of the instability, some 6.8 million Colombians have been displaced within the country. Colombia is also host to 2.5 million Venezuelan refugees.
Did you know?
Colombia is the second most biodiverse country in the world after Brazil. Colombia's Caño Cristales (River of Five Colours) is also part of this ecosystem.
Employment and income – honey for a better future
Honey and wax production is a source of new hope for beekeepers in Darfur.
When war broke out in Darfur in western Sudan in 2003, thousands – including Abdul-Aziz and his family – sought refuge in camps for internally displaced persons.
When the smallholder farmer and his wife left their village, they lost everything they had.
However, the Mukjar camp for internally displaced persons in West Darfur was bereft of opportunities for Abdul-Aziz, not least because it was extremely overcrowded.
The couple decided to return to their village, Bindisi, in the hope of taking up farming and beekeeping again, knowing full well that the situation wasn’t better there either.
Yet, Abdul-Aziz was lucky – he was able to join a new type of beekeeping association.
«Thanks to the project, I can now feed my family. I produce honey and wax
which I sell at the local market.»
Numerous women take part in the project and its courses – including
21-year-old mother of six, Nor Elsham Abdlgadir Mohamed.
«I process 50 to 60 portions of beeswax every week, earning 28 francs per week. It is enough to support the whole family.»
The honey project – implemented with financial support from the SDC – has given people a new glimmer of hope, combining emergency humanitarian assistance with longer-term reconstruction and development.
Venezuela
In 1820 – 44 years before the first Geneva Convention was adopted – the new state of Venezuela signed a treaty on rules of war. The treaty aimed to end brutality and atrocities of the kind perpetrated in the Venezuelan War of Independence. The treaty laid down genuine humanitarian standards, including respect for all belligerents, assistance for the wounded and sick, and the protection of civilians.
The capital is Caracas
The capital is Caracas
For a number of years, Venezuela has been gripped by a serious political, social and economic crisis. This has created major humanitarian problems for the country, compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The daily life of Venezuelans is marked by food and medicine shortages, hyperinflation, and a pervasive sense of insecurity due to rampant violence and instability.
Many Venezuelans seek a better life in Colombia, with around 2,000 people leaving the country every day. Since 2014, over 7.3 million people have fled Venezuela.
Did you know?
Venezuela has a rich and unique musical heritage. Musical genres such as joropo and salsa and the cuatro – an instrument similar to a small guitar – are an important part of Venezuelan culture.
Education – empowering people through Swiss expertise
The population of the Kakuma refugee camp in northern Kenya is around 185’000 – a touch more than the number of people living in the city of Basel.
At present, the average length of time that people live in refugee camps worldwide is 17 years.
People in camps also need opportunities, employment and income to avoid being completely dependent on outside support.
While refugees are often not allowed to integrate into the local job markets, local inhabitants in turn have no access to the help and assistance offered to refugees.
Aimed at promoting integration, ‘Skills 4 Life’ is a project in Kakuma that is open to both the inhabitants of the camp and the local population.
Participation in the project is voluntary. Those involved receive neither money nor free meals; all they need is the motivation to improve their individual situation.
Informal and inexpensive training based on the principles of ‘learning by doing’ is available in 12 disciplines including farming, masonry, refuse management, computer and mobile phone repair, laundry, tailoring and weaving.
Reading and arithmetic courses as well as business and social skills training are also provided.
The basic training element lasts four to five months and is practice-based. Besides obtaining a great deal of knowledge, participants gain self-confidence and get a certificate to show for it at the end.
Around 55% of the project participants are female.
«A number of project learning
groups in the project have already teamed up to start small businesses, which
is very gratifying.»
«The pilot project is the preliminary to an informal vocational education and training package, which we can also apply on a modular basis to other refugee situations in future.»
The project – implemented by the Swiss foundation Swisscontact on behalf of the SDC – gives people dignity, reduces poverty on a small scale, and generates opportunities.
Bangladesh
Together with Pakistan, Bangladesh gained independence from the United Kingdom in 1947. Bangladesh emerged as an independent state in 1971 after a brutal civil war.
The capital is Dhaka.
The capital is Dhaka.
Bangladesh has a very high population density of 1,277 people per square kilometre. If Switzerland had the same population density as Bangladesh, it would be home to approximately 52.7 million people.
After gaining independence, Bangladesh regularly accepted Rohingya refugees during the 1970s and 1990s. However, more recently, over 700,000 Rohingya have fled to Bangladesh, representing by far the largest influx of refugees.
Mounting climate risks pose a threat to agriculture and food security. In particular, floods and soil salinisation caused by rising sea levels will create major problems for Bangladesh.
Did you know?
The Ganges Delta (also known as the Ganges-Brahmaputra Delta or Bengal Delta) is the world's largest river delta. A large part of Bangladesh lies in the Ganges Delta which has approximately 240 tributaries.
Afghanistan – women’s rights are human rights
Afghanistan is one of the world’s poorest, most unstable countries. Through a wide range of programmes to strengthen local government structures, promote human rights and support socio-economic development, the SDC makes a sustainable contribution to reducing poverty in Afghanistan.
Women’s rights are human rights
Poverty, the trauma of war, and a lack of experience in harmonious gender interaction mean that domestic violence in Afghanistan is rife. The consequences for women can be fatal.
Switzerland also regards the training of policewomen as a priority in Afghanistan. In particular, qualified policewomen are necessary for liaison purposes in relation to domestic violence.
Switzerland also supports both the Afghan Human Rights Commission, which investigates specific cases of domestic violence, and Medica Afghanistan, a local NGO that provides psychological and legal help to victims of domestic violence.
The right to education is an important human right.
Some 87% of Afghan women can neither read nor write. However, there is increasing demand among parents for their daughters to receive an education, while local populations are taking a courageous stand against the closure of schools in areas influenced by insurgents.
Switzerland supports two projects to increase school enrolment for girls in four provinces in northern Afghanistan. The projects involve raising awareness among local populations and religious leaders (mullahs) of the importance of education for girls, and specifically promoting female teachers at secondary level.
Women’s rights also extend to politics. Thousands of women voted in the presidential elections in mid-June 2014. After queueing for hours in front of polling stations, they proudly held their ink-stained fingers aloft as proof of having voted.
Before the elections, measures were taken to enable women to vote. Human rights organisations increased women’s awareness of their political rights, urging them to go to the polls, while money was invested in training for female security staff to ensure that women could vote in safety.
Switzerland thus supports greater female representation in, and equal access to, government at both national and provincial level.
Inclusiveness is a prerequisite for development and the alleviation of poverty.
Swiss support for socio-economic development in Afghanistan’s rural areas focuses on promoting the role of women as producers and market participants.
Women farmers harvest wheat, vegetables, fruit and potatoes, and sell this produce at the market – earning a small wage helps improve their families’ lives in the process.
Worldwide demand for climate knowledge ‘Made in Switzerland’
Millions of people who are forced to leave their homes as a result of natural disasters or poverty do not receive refugee status under the 1951 Geneva Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees, and therefore have no right to protection.
The Nansen Initiative – launched by Switzerland in partnership with Norway in 2012 – addresses this issue.
The Nansen Initiative is a protection agenda that lists specific measures to prevent future climate change induced displacement. It also features programmes for better adaptation to climate change.
This is precisely where Switzerland’s proven expertise and innovations come into play, e.g. in relation to glaciology, water management, risk prevention, energy conservation, forestry and reducing air pollution.
In India, China and Peru, there are glaciers that are melting just as rapidly as ours – which is why these countries are interested in working with Switzerland.
«We have a sound base of climate knowledge thanks to our studies in the Alps. We pass on this expertise to local scientists, who are then able to observe the behaviour of glaciers in their own countries.»
«Scientists on the ground are familiar with the social context of their own countries. This is key to taking adaptive measures and can help save lives.»
In Peru, the implementation of an early-warning system for the glacial lake Laguna 513 benefited from this approach. The collapse of huge ice blocks has already pushed the lake over its banks a number of times, resulting in devastating floods.
A few kilometres away, the town of Carhuaz now receives information in real time, enabling it to evacuate its inhabitants in an emergency.
Particle filter technology is another area of Swiss expertise. In the 1990s, Switzerland was one of the first-ever countries to address the problem of harmful diesel engine emissions.
The Confederation – aiming to protect the health of construction workers – ensured that filters in construction machinery nowadays trap more than 97% of particulate matter.
In an initial project implemented by the SDC between 2004 and 2009, over
3’000 public buses in the Chilean capital of Santiago were equipped with
filters. The success of this project attracted the interest of Chinese and
other South American cities wanting to modernise their bus fleets and
construction machinery.
«Today, we know that particulate matter is carcinogenic and causes respiratory disease.»
«What is less well known is
that soot particulates are also a key contributor to global warming and that
soot deposits are making glaciers melt faster.»
Lebanon: education in a district where Syrians and Palestinians live together
The Hay Al-Gharbeh district is a few kilometres south of the vibrant city centre of Lebanon’s capital, Beirut. The people of Hay Al-Gharbeh live in difficult conditions.
Lebanese, Syrian and Palestine refugees as well as migrant workers live in these slums and the surrounding quarters, such as the Schatila Camp for Palestine refugees.
Almost every fourth person is a refugee in Lebanon, a country smaller than Switzerland.
The Syrian crisis has put more pressure on the demographics as immigration affects all aspects of life in Lebanon. It is more noticable in poor regions, where demand for education, medical care and water is high.
This is the reason why the Lebanese aid organistaion Tahaddi set up a learning centre in the Hay Al-Gharbeh district.
The roof of the learning centre covers the school yard, which is the only playing area in the whole district. This centre gives the children a certain normalcy in their lives.
More than 350 students attend various programmes in the Tahaddi learning centre. There are now four preschool classes, 11 primary classes and about 100 children, who attend extra tuition.
The Tahaddi learning centre has also accepted Syrian refugees since 2012. Some of them are so traumatised by what they experienced in Syria that they are barely able to speak.
Children who have never attended school or dropped out early can attend classes that comply with the standards of the national education system. The curriculum has also been adapted to their socially difficult context.
The Principality of Liechtenstein and Switzerland have joined forces to financially support Tahaddi. The aid organisation gives the most vulnerable a real chance.
Bangladesh – A displaced minority
Since its independence, Bangladesh has repeatedly taken in Rohingya refugees in the 1970s and then again in the 1990s. The latest mass departure, which started in August 2017 and has seen more than 700,000 Rohingyas arrive in Bangladesh, has been the biggest exodus ever recorded worldwide.
It was triggered by new outbreaks of violence in Rakhine, Myanmar’s poorest state.
Today, more than a million refugees from Myanmar live in Cox’s Bazaar in the south of Bangladesh. They often live in dire conditions in overcrowded camps.
The dismal living conditions are a great concern as the available space for the residents is extremely limited. These cramped living conditions increase the risk for disease outbreak.
The area around Cox’s Bazaar is also prone to natural disasters such as hurricanes and floods as well as landslides, especially during the monsoon season.
One of the biggest challenges is access to clean drinking water, which has always been limited in the region. Toilets are also desperately needed.
It takes considerable effort to dispose of the faeces. The refugees usually do it themselves against a financial compensation.
«Adults learned how to treat water with ‘tablets that kill bacteria’,» says Kim Müller, member of the Swiss Humanitarian Aid Unit (SHA).
Women and girls receive washable sanitary towels and underwear. Separate sanitary facilities have also been constructed. It is often the case that displaced women have insufficient privacy to menstruate in dignity.
Swiss Humanitarian Aid supplied diagnostic equipment and devices to two hospitals in the Cox’s Bazaar region in order to increase their capacities to admit more locals as well as refugees.
Thanks to the humanitarian engagement, refugees have now better access to drinking water, food, sanitary facilities, accommodation and medical care.
Soap
Handwashing saves lives.
As thousands of people seek refuge in many refugee camps, water is scarce which has led to bad hygiene practices. In the camps, every person receives seven to 11 litres of water per day. The average water consumption in Switzerland is 163 litres per person. Sufficient safe* drinking water as well as hygiene items such as soap can prevent endemic diseases such as Cholera.
*Drinking water is considered safe when it is free of pathogenic bacteria.
As thousands of people seek refuge in many refugee camps, water is scarce which has led to bad hygiene practices. In the camps, every person receives seven to 11 litres of water per day. The average water consumption in Switzerland is 163 litres per person. Sufficient safe* drinking water as well as hygiene items such as soap can prevent endemic diseases such as Cholera.
*Drinking water is considered safe when it is free of pathogenic bacteria.
Water bottle
In Switzerland, access to safe drinking water is easy: just open the tap and drink it. This, however, is not the case in many countries:
«We spent many days in the Sahara. I was forced to drink my own urine to stay hydrated.» (Unaccompanied minor refugee from Somalia, 17 years old)
«We spent many days in the Sahara. I was forced to drink my own urine to stay hydrated.» (Unaccompanied minor refugee from Somalia, 17 years old)
Bread
You have been on the go for days, or even weeks. Bread and other dried foods can be kept for a long time and are good provisions for refugees. Every ninth person goes to sleep hungry in the world. Many of them are displaced. For this reason, food and cash vouchers are distributed. They can be used to receive food rations or buy provisions in a ship. In Lebanon, 20 USD is enough to buy one loaf of bread a day for one month.
Smartphone
How important is your smartphone in your everyday life? Could you leave your phone behind?
Smartphones are no longer only a communication tool, they also provide access to banking details and accounts. They can also be used photo albums where you can store pictures of your loved ones.
But be aware: data saved on your mobile phone such as contact details and photos of your family and friends are often misused. Traffickers and criminals use this data for blackmail with the threat to use violence against the people left behind.
Smartphones are no longer only a communication tool, they also provide access to banking details and accounts. They can also be used photo albums where you can store pictures of your loved ones.
But be aware: data saved on your mobile phone such as contact details and photos of your family and friends are often misused. Traffickers and criminals use this data for blackmail with the threat to use violence against the people left behind.
Money and/or jewellery
Traffickers are expensive, and a lot of cash is needed en route. Cash and jewellery are often the only accepted means of payment during displacement.
«As we could not pay the traffickers enough money, many of us were raped.» (Meron from Eritrea, 32 years old)
«As we could not pay the traffickers enough money, many of us were raped.» (Meron from Eritrea, 32 years old)
Medication
Do you need a particular medicine such as an anti-allergy drug?
Drugs are often too expensive for displaced people. Rofenac D, for example, is a painkiller against arthritis and rheumatism. In Lebanon where every fifth person is a refugee, 20 pills cost 8,468 Lebanese Pounds (about CHF 5.70). Many refugees can no longer afford medication. Their savings have been spent; they no longer have an income; and they need the money for their daily survival (bread, rice, water, electricity, etc.).
Drugs are often too expensive for displaced people. Rofenac D, for example, is a painkiller against arthritis and rheumatism. In Lebanon where every fifth person is a refugee, 20 pills cost 8,468 Lebanese Pounds (about CHF 5.70). Many refugees can no longer afford medication. Their savings have been spent; they no longer have an income; and they need the money for their daily survival (bread, rice, water, electricity, etc.).
Penknife
Many Swiss take a penknife when they go camping. With its multiple functions, it is a handy all-round tool for almost everything: it has a can and bottle opener, knife, cork screw, saw, screwdriver and many other things you need for the outdoors. Hence, a Swiss penknife would be a perfect tool for displaced people.
Do knives have a different meaning in other cultures? How about your classmates? Who knows what a penknife is, and who owns one? Are knives off-limits for some people?
Do knives have a different meaning in other cultures? How about your classmates? Who knows what a penknife is, and who owns one? Are knives off-limits for some people?
Shoes
Good shoes can be vital as many displaced people are forced to walk through the desert or across mountains for days. Good shoes protect from the heat, injuries and cold. However, many displaced people cannot afford shoes and often wear plastic flip flops because they are cheaper. Leather thongs are something very special.
Passport and other documents
You cannot identify yourself without passport or ID card. Many of the more than 117.3 million displaced people all over the world do not have identity documents. Hence, refugees are often registered via iris scan which together with the refugees’ personal details is an integral part of the registration procedure. Iris scans serve the clear identification of a person.
In Switzerland, a so-called «laissez-passer» document is issued after a positive asylum decision or provisional admission, in case no identity papers are available.
In Switzerland, a so-called «laissez-passer» document is issued after a positive asylum decision or provisional admission, in case no identity papers are available.
Helen's story
In brief
Name: Tesfaye
First name: Helen
Year of birth: 1996
Nationality: Eritrea
Ethnic group: Tigrinya
Language: Tigrinya
Religion: Christian Orthodox
Name: Tesfaye
First name: Helen
Year of birth: 1996
Nationality: Eritrea
Ethnic group: Tigrinya
Language: Tigrinya
Religion: Christian Orthodox
What was Eritrea like before I was forced to leave?
Since the outbreak of the border conflict with Ethiopia in 2002, Eritrea has been under a state of emergency. This is accompanied by mandatory national service for both men and women. Conscription often entails forced labour for an indefinite period of time. There is no freedom of press or opinion, nor is there an independent judiciary. Moreover, there are repeated reports of torture in Eritrean prisons.
«I came to Switzerland because I am forced to do harsh and endless military service in my home country.»
Since the outbreak of the border conflict with Ethiopia in 2002, Eritrea has been under a state of emergency. This is accompanied by mandatory national service for both men and women. Conscription often entails forced labour for an indefinite period of time. There is no freedom of press or opinion, nor is there an independent judiciary. Moreover, there are repeated reports of torture in Eritrean prisons.
«I came to Switzerland because I am forced to do harsh and endless military service in my home country.»
Everyday life during the asylum process
«There is hardly any privacy at the centre. I share my room with seven other women, and my friends are unable to visit. Access to federal asylum centres is closed to the public in order to maintain the privacy of asylum seekers. Asylum seekers may visit their friends and relatives during the week from 9am to 5pm, as well as at weekends.»
«There is hardly any privacy at the centre. I share my room with seven other women, and my friends are unable to visit. Access to federal asylum centres is closed to the public in order to maintain the privacy of asylum seekers. Asylum seekers may visit their friends and relatives during the week from 9am to 5pm, as well as at weekends.»
Decision
Since Helen is already registered in Italy, her case is declared inadmissible under the terms of the Dublin Convention and she must return to Italy. The authorities forgo detailed verification of asylum applications that are deemed to be inadmissible. The Dublin Convention determines which member state is responsible for processing an asylum application. This ensures that individual applications are examined only once within the EU. Individuals must apply for asylum in the country through which they first entered the territory of the Dublin Convention. Hence, the responsibility for Helen’s asylum application lies with Italy.
Since Helen is already registered in Italy, her case is declared inadmissible under the terms of the Dublin Convention and she must return to Italy. The authorities forgo detailed verification of asylum applications that are deemed to be inadmissible. The Dublin Convention determines which member state is responsible for processing an asylum application. This ensures that individual applications are examined only once within the EU. Individuals must apply for asylum in the country through which they first entered the territory of the Dublin Convention. Hence, the responsibility for Helen’s asylum application lies with Italy.
«I don’t know anyone in Italy. In Switzerland, I have my cousin and my
friends. What am I supposed to do?»
Perspectives
«They took me back to Italy, where I now live in an asylum centre near Rome. I am still sad about not being allowed to stay near my cousin’s place. I really hope Italy grants me protection and I do not have to return to my home country. Now and again, I work as a nanny for a family looking after their three children. I am finding it easy to learn Italian with the children. I like the language and would like to speak it fluently as quickly as possible. Maybe I can visit my cousin some time.»
«They took me back to Italy, where I now live in an asylum centre near Rome. I am still sad about not being allowed to stay near my cousin’s place. I really hope Italy grants me protection and I do not have to return to my home country. Now and again, I work as a nanny for a family looking after their three children. I am finding it easy to learn Italian with the children. I like the language and would like to speak it fluently as quickly as possible. Maybe I can visit my cousin some time.»
Yasin’s story
In brief
Name: Bahri
First name: Yasin
Year of birth: 1992
Nationality: Tunisia
Ethnic group: Arab
Name: Bahri
First name: Yasin
Year of birth: 1992
Nationality: Tunisia
Ethnic group: Arab
What was Tunisia like before I was forced to leave?
In 2010, a Tunisian market vendor set fire to himself in the street after being forced to close down his vegetable stall because he didn’t have a permit. His livelihood was taken away from him. His self-immolation is considered the trigger for the Tunisian revolution, which led to a series of democratic reforms. However, as long as the basic economic needs of the population are not met and the youth have no future prospects, the pressure to migrate remains.
«Tunisia is a poor country and I couldn’t find work there. In order to support my family, I came to Europe in the hope of finding employment.»
In 2010, a Tunisian market vendor set fire to himself in the street after being forced to close down his vegetable stall because he didn’t have a permit. His livelihood was taken away from him. His self-immolation is considered the trigger for the Tunisian revolution, which led to a series of democratic reforms. However, as long as the basic economic needs of the population are not met and the youth have no future prospects, the pressure to migrate remains.
«Tunisia is a poor country and I couldn’t find work there. In order to support my family, I came to Europe in the hope of finding employment.»
Everyday life during the asylum process
«By doing community service work, I can earn some pocket money and get in contact with Swiss people. Asylum seekers at federal centres can do community service work that benefits the general public. These jobs include clearing debris after floods, keeping hiking paths in good condition and helping to separate rubbish.»
«By doing community service work, I can earn some pocket money and get in contact with Swiss people. Asylum seekers at federal centres can do community service work that benefits the general public. These jobs include clearing debris after floods, keeping hiking paths in good condition and helping to separate rubbish.»
Decision
After two weeks, Yasin is notified that his asylum application has been rejected and that he must leave Switzerland. Under the Asylum Act, neither a lack of prospects nor poverty are reasons for granting asylum. If nothing prevents the person from returning to his/her country of origin, the asylum application will be rejected and the person concerned will be required to leave Switzerland. If the person returns voluntarily and is not liable to prosecution in Switzerland, then he/she may receive return assistance.
After two weeks, Yasin is notified that his asylum application has been rejected and that he must leave Switzerland. Under the Asylum Act, neither a lack of prospects nor poverty are reasons for granting asylum. If nothing prevents the person from returning to his/her country of origin, the asylum application will be rejected and the person concerned will be required to leave Switzerland. If the person returns voluntarily and is not liable to prosecution in Switzerland, then he/she may receive return assistance.
«They told me that I have to return to Tunisia. My family lent me a lot of money for my trip to Europe. I wanted to find a job here to support my family. I feel ashamed to return empty handed. Luckily, I am eligible for repatriation assistance. I would like to open a motorcycle repair shop in my home country, and Switzerland will support me in setting it up.»
Perspectives
«I have opened my own motorcycle repair shop in Tunis, thanks to technical and financial support from Switzerland. Things are going well at the moment, and I am able to earn a living. This makes me proud. My parents are happy that I am back home. They say that I have become more mature – and they are right. Unfortunately, they had to borrow money to finance my journey to Europe. I want to build my business so that I can help my family and pay them back.»
«I have opened my own motorcycle repair shop in Tunis, thanks to technical and financial support from Switzerland. Things are going well at the moment, and I am able to earn a living. This makes me proud. My parents are happy that I am back home. They say that I have become more mature – and they are right. Unfortunately, they had to borrow money to finance my journey to Europe. I want to build my business so that I can help my family and pay them back.»
Ashkan’s story
In brief
Name: Mahdavi
First name: Ashkan
Year of birth: 1993
Nationality: Iran
Ethnic group: Persian
Language: Persian
Religion: Muslim
Name: Mahdavi
First name: Ashkan
Year of birth: 1993
Nationality: Iran
Ethnic group: Persian
Language: Persian
Religion: Muslim
What was the Islamic Republic of Iran like before I was forced to leave?
Minorities are heavily oppressed in Iran. People who criticise the Iranian government can expect severe punishment without fair trial. Corporal punishment and executions are also widespread. Political prisoners often suffer ill-treatment and torture, and no access to medical treatment.
«Because I expressed my opinion freely, I was considered a traitor to the revolution and put in prison.»
Minorities are heavily oppressed in Iran. People who criticise the Iranian government can expect severe punishment without fair trial. Corporal punishment and executions are also widespread. Political prisoners often suffer ill-treatment and torture, and no access to medical treatment.
«Because I expressed my opinion freely, I was considered a traitor to the revolution and put in prison.»
Everyday life during the asylum process
«It’s an emotional rollercoaster ride for me at the moment. Luckily, there are counsellors here who help me come to terms with these issues. Every federal asylum centre has a counsellor. A ‘quiet room’ for meditation is also available for asylum seekers of all religions.»
«It’s an emotional rollercoaster ride for me at the moment. Luckily, there are counsellors here who help me come to terms with these issues. Every federal asylum centre has a counsellor. A ‘quiet room’ for meditation is also available for asylum seekers of all religions.»
Decision
Askhan is recognised as political refugee. He is allowed to stay in Switzerland and receives a B residence permit. Being the target of political persecution constitutes grounds for asylum. Spouses and under-age children of recognised refugees may enter Switzerland and are also granted asylum. His integration into Swiss society is supported and funded by the canton. Refugees may work in any industry.
Askhan is recognised as political refugee. He is allowed to stay in Switzerland and receives a B residence permit. Being the target of political persecution constitutes grounds for asylum. Spouses and under-age children of recognised refugees may enter Switzerland and are also granted asylum. His integration into Swiss society is supported and funded by the canton. Refugees may work in any industry.
«After being interrogated and imprisoned several times in Iran due to my political activities, I am grateful that Switzerland has recognised me as a refugee. Here in Switzerland, I am finally able to express my opinions freely. Yet, I still hope to return to Iran one day.»
Perspectives
«I am very happy about being able to start a new life here in Switzerland. I might even be able to complete my studies one day, which won’t be easy. However, I have to improve my French first. I regularly meet a Swiss student for language tandems, where I also learn a lot about Swiss culture. I miss my family and my life in Iran very much. It’s the everyday things I miss, I yearn for Iran’s smells, the food, or the sound of my mother’s and siblings’ voices. I have made some friends in Switzerland, who are mostly compatriots from Iran, but loneliness keeps on catching up with me. Leaving everything behind is not easy.»
«I am very happy about being able to start a new life here in Switzerland. I might even be able to complete my studies one day, which won’t be easy. However, I have to improve my French first. I regularly meet a Swiss student for language tandems, where I also learn a lot about Swiss culture. I miss my family and my life in Iran very much. It’s the everyday things I miss, I yearn for Iran’s smells, the food, or the sound of my mother’s and siblings’ voices. I have made some friends in Switzerland, who are mostly compatriots from Iran, but loneliness keeps on catching up with me. Leaving everything behind is not easy.»
Mohammed’s story
In brief
Name: Abdulla
First Name: Mohammed
Year of birth: 1982
Staatsbürgerschaft: Syria
Language: Arab
Religion: Muslim
Name: Abdulla
First Name: Mohammed
Year of birth: 1982
Staatsbürgerschaft: Syria
Language: Arab
Religion: Muslim
What was Syria like before I was forced
to leave?
In the wake of the Arab spring, Syria’s civil war was triggered by a peaceful protest against the government in early 2011. This protest escalated and quickly turned into an armed conflict. The city of Homs was heavily bombed from the very beginning. Some parts of the city are completely destroyed. Before the war, Homs used to be a flourishing city.
In the wake of the Arab spring, Syria’s civil war was triggered by a peaceful protest against the government in early 2011. This protest escalated and quickly turned into an armed conflict. The city of Homs was heavily bombed from the very beginning. Some parts of the city are completely destroyed. Before the war, Homs used to be a flourishing city.
Everyday life during the asylum process
«I am happy that my children are allowed go to school during the asylum process. Due to asylum seekers’ short stay in federal asylum centres, their children do not attend state schools during this time. However, they can attend classes at the asylum centre. Children can start normal schooling as soon as they move into cantonal accommodation.»
«I am happy that my children are allowed go to school during the asylum process. Due to asylum seekers’ short stay in federal asylum centres, their children do not attend state schools during this time. However, they can attend classes at the asylum centre. Children can start normal schooling as soon as they move into cantonal accommodation.»
Decision
Refugees who are admitted through the resettlement programme receive refugee status within a very short period of time. Mohammed and his family receive a B residence permit. Swiss cantonal authorities offer language and integration courses for refugees to become better acquainted with life and customs in Switzerland. Certain cantons also assess refugees’ employment potential to help facilitate their integration into the job market.
Refugees who are admitted through the resettlement programme receive refugee status within a very short period of time. Mohammed and his family receive a B residence permit. Swiss cantonal authorities offer language and integration courses for refugees to become better acquainted with life and customs in Switzerland. Certain cantons also assess refugees’ employment potential to help facilitate their integration into the job market.
«I am so relieved to have reached safety. I am still suffering from the
consequences of the torture, and I still experience severe bouts of depression.
In Switzerland, I can finally visit a psychiatrist, who helps me deal with my
traumatic experience.»
Perspectives
«My engineering qualification is not recognised here. I found work as a cleaner at a hospital at short notice. Although I am happy to be earning my own money, I would like to put my skills as an engineer to use. The same applies to my wife, who is a qualified nurse. We hope to find suitable work with the help of our supervisor. My bouts of depression make it harder for me to learn German. I would like to do an apprenticeship here, but my German is not yet good enough. Patience is everything. Our children already speak German without any difficulties and have made lots of friends. They have settled in very well, and I am very grateful for it.»
«My engineering qualification is not recognised here. I found work as a cleaner at a hospital at short notice. Although I am happy to be earning my own money, I would like to put my skills as an engineer to use. The same applies to my wife, who is a qualified nurse. We hope to find suitable work with the help of our supervisor. My bouts of depression make it harder for me to learn German. I would like to do an apprenticeship here, but my German is not yet good enough. Patience is everything. Our children already speak German without any difficulties and have made lots of friends. They have settled in very well, and I am very grateful for it.»
Aziz’s story
In brief
Name: Poladi
First name: Aziz
Year of birth: 1984
Nationality: Afghanistan
Ethnic group: Hazara
Language: Persian (Pashtoo and Dari)
Religion: Muslim
Name: Poladi
First name: Aziz
Year of birth: 1984
Nationality: Afghanistan
Ethnic group: Hazara
Language: Persian (Pashtoo and Dari)
Religion: Muslim
What was Afghanistan like before I was forced to leave?
Since the late 1970s, Afghanistan has been crippled by endless armed conflicts and has not seen peace. In 1998, the Taliban came to power. They introduced strict rules. Women were no longer allowed to work and had to cover up. Men were forced to grow beards. Girls were not allowed to go to school. Music, television, cinema and sports were prohibited. The Taliban cracked down hard on those, who did not adhere to the rules. Sometimes they openly executed people in the streets.
Afghanistan is still not safe. There is an average of more than 60 security incidents per day. Since 2015, Afghanistan has also been threatened by IS.
Since the late 1970s, Afghanistan has been crippled by endless armed conflicts and has not seen peace. In 1998, the Taliban came to power. They introduced strict rules. Women were no longer allowed to work and had to cover up. Men were forced to grow beards. Girls were not allowed to go to school. Music, television, cinema and sports were prohibited. The Taliban cracked down hard on those, who did not adhere to the rules. Sometimes they openly executed people in the streets.
Afghanistan is still not safe. There is an average of more than 60 security incidents per day. Since 2015, Afghanistan has also been threatened by IS.
Everyday life during the asylum process
«I can forget my worries and fears for a few hours when I play football in the afternoon. Some local residents help people in federal asylum centres by organising various activities such as tutoring, children’s games, sports events, meet-and-greet coffee hours, excursions, and visits to the theatre. They can liaise with asylum centre managers as and when necessary.»
«I can forget my worries and fears for a few hours when I play football in the afternoon. Some local residents help people in federal asylum centres by organising various activities such as tutoring, children’s games, sports events, meet-and-greet coffee hours, excursions, and visits to the theatre. They can liaise with asylum centre managers as and when necessary.»
Decision
Aziz is not a recognised refugee because there is no specific evidence of persecution against him. During his interviews, he explained that he fled Afghanistan because of the war. The current situation does not allow Aziz to be sent back, which means he receives 'provisional admission' (permit F). Civil war, severe health problems and disproportionate punishment in the event of repatriation can be reasons for a provisional admission.
Aziz is not a recognised refugee because there is no specific evidence of persecution against him. During his interviews, he explained that he fled Afghanistan because of the war. The current situation does not allow Aziz to be sent back, which means he receives 'provisional admission' (permit F). Civil war, severe health problems and disproportionate punishment in the event of repatriation can be reasons for a provisional admission.
«I feel safe in Switzerland – but only for the time being. I have to renew my F permit every year. No one knows whether I can stay in Switzerland permanently. I really hope they will grant me a longer-term residence permit.»
Perspectives
«Many employers are reluctant to take on people who have been provisionally admitted which makes it hard for us to find a job. After three years and many rejections, I finally found work as a kitchen helper at a restaurant. I miss my family terriblyt. They are going through tough times. I would like to support them financially, but I don’t have enough money to do so. However, I try to keep in regular contact with them. My big dream is to start my own family in my new home country.»
«Many employers are reluctant to take on people who have been provisionally admitted which makes it hard for us to find a job. After three years and many rejections, I finally found work as a kitchen helper at a restaurant. I miss my family terriblyt. They are going through tough times. I would like to support them financially, but I don’t have enough money to do so. However, I try to keep in regular contact with them. My big dream is to start my own family in my new home country.»
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Displacement
Menschen
Maleika
