Request for Help from Iranian Refugees Facing Deportation by the Turkish Government - 2004-01-27

Dear Sir/Madam, we, the Iranian refugees, have introduced ourselves to the UNHCR office in Van, Turkey, for 2 to 7 years in hopes of relief. Unfortunately, our claims have been rejected, and our cases have been completely closed. We would like to draw your attention to the following points: Although the majority of us have spent half of our lives fighting against the 'Islamic Republic of Iran' regime, chaos, dictatorship, and for democracy, justice, and freedom, and we have provided credible documents in this regard, unfortunately, those claims were not accepted, and we remain in uncertainty. In fact, in addition to our marital situations, problems such as the ability to provide for our needs have become very difficult, if not impossible. When we approach the UNHCR for assistance, they refuse to cooperate due to the status of our cases. At the same time, the possibility of working and earning for our families has been taken away from us due to the refugee laws enacted by the Turkish government. As a result, we are facing malnutrition, health, and economic issues, as well as education challenges. Enduring these hardships should indicate to you that we have faced numerous problems that make returning to our home country impossible. Based on this, we request: 1- A reconsideration and careful review of our cases and recognition of us as refugees. 2- Attention to our physical and financial conditions, as well as healthcare facilities. 3- The transfer of our cases to the embassies of host countries and facilitation of our affairs. 4- The cancellation of deportation orders by the Turkish security forces. These are some of our primary needs. We await your actions on these matters. We thank you in advance for your cooperation and assistance. Sincerely, The Committee of Iranian Refugees, Closed Cases, Van - Turkey, 20/1/2004, Contact phone number: 00905553132491.