Ever since we entered Iran, we started noticing the discrimination towards foreigners - not tourists but migrants from neighbouring countries. It has been a consistent pattern in each country that has accepted refugees or migrants. For example, the Iranians spoke very poorly about Afghans living in their country, and the Turkish generally blamed Syrian refugees for taking their jobs.
We have several stories to share from our experience cycling through these “troubled” areas.
Afghans in Iran
Once we camped at a field near some villagers home. It was dark when we pitched the tent and it was quiet. It has been a long day so we were tired and wanted to sleep early. One of the things that frightens us the most is being approached when we're in the tent. After midnight, the neighbours came to ask us who we were, and whether we were Afghans. They seemed quite scared of us and we were worried that we were in trouble. We introduced ourselves as tourists from New Zealand and asked if we were allowed to camp here. It was no problem and they looked relieved we weren't Afghan. We realised later that their concerns were from the stereotypes toward Afghans.
Afghans have a tough life in Iran. They bring their family to Iran for employment and opportunities, and safety from an endless war, however they are stereotyped as beggars, stealers, dangerous and takers. Our own situation is somewhat similar in that we are migrating to Europe for a new life, better pay and lifestyle - yet we face no discrimination. Why is that?
Syrians in Turkey
Turkey was an interesting country where they had opened the borders and accepted many Syrians. We passed through many refugees camps along their southern border. Small concrete houses lined up in grids surrounded by a big fence. The community was quiet and peaceful. A family or two are outside the "enclosure" enjoying the surrounding fields.
When we talked to some locals in Turkey, their impression towards Syrians were either neutral or negative. They are proud their government provided help but also blamed them for taking jobs and the increased crime. Our general observation was that refugees were being scapegoated for the economic problems currently faced in Turkey. This leads to Syrians being the butt of jokes and laughing stock.
100 Days in Iran
The most hospitable and welcoming country we've ever been to. As a thank you to our new friends we have made this <a href="
## No room here
We met another cycling couple from an eastern European country who had cycled multiple years round the world. They surely appreciated the extremely warm hospitable culture of the Middle Eastern countries. Yet - they didn't want refugees coming into their country. You'd think after travelling through all the Middle East you'll learn about hospitality and be sympathetic towards their political instabilities.
They gave excuses that resembled far right nationalists.
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- Our country don't have muslim communities, they won't have anywhere suitable to move to.
- Other European countries are better for them.
- Our values are very different to theirs so we can't possibly live together.
We were rather disappointed to hear this given they have travelled so much and received endless hospitality. They enjoy receiving help but when it came to opening their doors to those in need - it was firmly shut. We tried reasoning with them using NZ's chanced policy to increase refugee intake quota (1000 to 1500 by July 2020) even though we have just 1.18% in NZ identifying as muslims (2003 Census). Perhaps having a migrant based population enabled us Kiwis to look past labels and welcome foreigners in need with open arms. But then again, we don't have thousands marching to our border everyday.
Video: Darashakran Refugee Camp
The first refugee camp we saw on this trip was in Kurdistan Iraq. This short info clip show just how big it is.
▶️ Watch DTube Video here
Refugees live among us but get treated like second class citizens. It's an unfortunate reality. Nobody wants to be a refugee fleeing from their home and community. Naturally it is not by choice. We need to see them as human beings and treat them with empathy and humility. Perhaps after reading this, in your next encounter with refugees you could be more understanding and welcoming.
Travel Resources for your trip to Iraq
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Flights: We recommend checking Kiwi.com to find the best and cheapest flights to Iraq.
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Day Trips & Tours: We recommend GetYourGuide for a variety of well-organized and enjoyable activities.
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