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What are the most common risks Refugees face when trying to flee to safe countries?

Birt Zumbusch

As a user of social media, I have come across several stories and reports which highlight the challenges refugees face when trying to flee their countries and seek asylum in safe regions. The risks they face are often life-threatening and unimaginable. Here are some of the most common risks refugees face:

1. Human Trafficking

Human trafficking is one of the most significant risks refugees face when they leave their homes in search of safety. The desperation to leave their homes makes them vulnerable to unscrupulous individuals who may offer to help them escape but end up exploiting them instead. In the process, they may end up being sold into slavery or forced into prostitution, leaving them at the mercy of their captors.

2. Physical Harm and Violence

The journey to safety is often dangerous and treacherous. At times refugees are forced to walk through hostile terrains, risking physical injuries and even death. The risks increase when crossing borders or passing through conflict zones, where they are susceptible to violence and brutality from soldiers, militias and insurgent groups.

3. Sexual Violence

Refugee women and children are particularly vulnerable to sexual violence and exploitation. They risk being raped or forced into prostitution, making them victims of abuse even as they try to find sanctuary.

4. Languages and Communication

When refugees reach border crossings, they often do not speak the language of the new country nor understand their customs, leaving them at a disadvantage. They may also lose their identification papers, making it challenging for them to prove their identity and seek assistance.

5. Inadequate Shelter and Medical Care

Refugees often arrive in a new country with no shelter or medical care. They may have to live in makeshift camps crowded with strangers with no access to food or shelter. This makes them vulnerable to disease outbreaks, poor hygiene and inadequate medical attention.

6. Separation from Families and Loved Ones

During the journey to safety, refugees may lose contact with their families and loved ones, or even lose them. They are often forced to leave behind properties, pets and other possessions they hold dear, leaving them dejected, traumatized and emotionally vulnerable.

7. Legal and Political Risks

Refugees face significant legal and political challenges once they arrive in a new country. They may have to deal with immigration and citizenship issues, court proceedings and legal bureaucracy. They may also be subjected to discrimination and exclusion due to their status, race or religion.

In conclusion, the risks refugees face when seeking safety in new countries are enormous and life-changing. As a society, we need to help protect the rights of refugees, advocate for their safety and work towards creating a more inclusive world where everyone has access to safety and justice.