Report on a Protest Experience in Germany

By Nasrin Ramzanali

25 October 2002

Every year, 50,000 asylum seekers are deported from Germany, i.e. 130 to 140 people a day. The border and security police deport asylum seekers using any means necessary; some have even died as a result of the violence meted out by German police.

In light of the wave of deportations, the growth of state racism, and increasing threats against asylum seekers, the International Federation of Iranian Refugees (IFIR) - German Branch organised a two week long sit-in with the assistance of the International Committee against Stoning in opposition to the German government's anti-asylum policies.

The sit-in began on 29 September, which is also known as Refugee Day with a conference that included speeches from organisers and representatives of various organisations that supported the sit-in and its demands. Huge numbers of asylum seekers participated in this conference. On average, 40 to 50 asylum seekers participated in the sit-in on a daily basis. During the sit-in, numerous meetings and programs were planned.

On the second day of the sit-in, we erected tents in the city centre of Essen with placards and slogans against deportation, state racism, stoning, execution and the Islamic Republic of Iran. As a result, we were able to draw the attention of large numbers of people. Our action and demands were well received by people who came over to our tables and read our materials and press releases. They were interested in knowing more about the political situation in Iran, stonings and executions. They condemned the German government for its increased economic and political relations with Iran and believed that asylum seekers should not be the victims of such wheelings and dealings.

On the third day of the sit-in, IFIR representatives met with the Internal Minister of Nord Rein Westphalen. The Minister agreed to review the closed cases of asylum seekers in this region.

IFIR representatives also visited women facing deportation in the largest detention centre in the area in order to get their voices heard by people on the outside. Women asylum seekers from Islam-stricken societies are forced to sign forms and wear a veil to prepare their documentation for deportation.

During the sit-in, we also stood in front of the court and announced the numbers of stonings, executions, and arrests of the people in Iran. We then pointed out to the rightlessness of asylum seekers and stated that anyone who deems the Islamic Republic a safe country is an accomplice in their crimes. We also submitted documents of human rights violations to the head of the court. In another effort during this time to raise awareness, we organised a 35 km bike tour riding between the two cities of Dortmund and Bochum. People’s participation and encouragement during the 35-kilometer bike tour was impressive. On the way we held various public meetings including one in the Bochum city centre.

Visiting the camps of asylum seekers and bearing witness to the abysmal situation was also another part of this two-week sit-in.

Twenty-five refugee rights organisations supported our sit-in both morally and financially. We continue to receive support letters from individuals and organisations even though the protest ended several days ago.

On the last day of the sit-in, we marched between the cities of Bochum and Essen. This action caught the attention of many people and some joined the march that was about 36 kilometres long.

Local and national print media and television produced several reports on the sit-in. Through this sit-in and by exerting pressure on the media, they were forced to provide coverage on our protest. Via the sit-in we were able to give a real image of the Islamic regime of Iran as well as the German government’s racist policies. During this time we were greatly supported by the people. People embraced us, gave us flowers and pastries and stated that our presence is a necessary for society. In support of the asylum seekers’ sit-in, the city theatre of Essen invited us to see a play which was being performed.

IFIR has time and again announced that only united and organised protest can secure our legitimate demands. IFIR's campaign against deportations will continue.

For more information, contact Nasrin Ramzanali, Director of IFIR German Branch Tel: +49 172 5350946, ifirgermany@web.de.