In Thailand, several thousand Pak-Christian asylum seekers are grappling with the harsh realities of living as illegal immigrants. Despite a significant number of these individuals holding UNHCR registrations as official asylum seekers or refugees, they are still treated as illegals. This forces them into precarious cash-in-hand jobs, often under unsafe and exploitative conditions. Learn more by watching this documentary:
Pakistani Christian Wilson Chowdhry, led Chris Rogers of the BBC to the various locations in the documentary as part of his voluntary work with our charity back then.
The root of the issue lies with the Royal Thai Government’s refusal to ratify international conventions for asylum seekers. The government remains steadfast in its stance against providing any form of leniency to refugees and asylum seekers within its borders. This rigid policy results in frequent arrests, a punitive fine system, and brutal conditions in Immigration Detention Centers (IDCs). The intention is clear: to deter those seeking safety and refuge in Thailand by making their lives as difficult as possible.
This month, The British Asian Christian Association (BACA) are aiding a Thai charity that documents prison conditions by connecting them with Pakistani Christians in Bangkok to contribute to their annual report on the country’s prison and detainment systems.
Amidst this environment of fear and uncertainty, the British Asian Christian Association monthly grant program stands as a beacon of hope for many. On May 29th, ten Christian families received a grant of 1000 baht (£25) each. This financial assistance is crucial for them, as it helps cover essential expenses like house rent, groceries, and other daily necessities. The recipients have expressed their deep gratitude for this support, which significantly alleviates their daily struggles.
Among the recipients of the BACA grant are:
- Amir Vincent (50 years)
- Aneel Pervaiz (31 years)
- Salina Peter (71 years)
- Abil Nadeem (33 years)
- Liyas Pervaiz (43 years)
- Irum Christina (40 years)
- Audrey Moscrop (50 years)
- Andrees Yousaf (53 years)
- Yousaf Gill (60 years)
- Marie Gowan (65 years)
These individuals and their families face daily uncertainties and risks, yet programs like the BACA grant provide them with much-needed relief and a sense of hope. The ongoing support from such initiatives is vital in helping them navigate their challenging circumstances while striving for a better future.
The British Asian Christian Association provides hardship funds, immigration bail fees, medical assistance grants, and much more to desperate asylum seeker and refugee families in Thailand. Please help us continue this vital work by donating (here).
