Support Sit-in of Refugees in Van, Turkey

September 10, 2001

Refugees in the border town of Van, Turkey have been participating in a sit-in at the office of the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) in Van, Turkey in protest against that agency’s indifference and irresponsibility towards their claims. Lengthy procedures, non-provision of reasons for refusal, inadequate translators, confrontational interviews, as well as non-provision of any form of financial support until claims are approved, etc. are some of their grievances.

In light of the fact that the UNHCR Turkey office has refused to address previous legitimate demands, protesting refugees are demanding to meet with a mission from the UNHCR - Geneva.

IFIR calls on all to support the protesting refugees from Iran, Iraq, Afghanistan and other countries in their attempt to have their grievances addressed. Send letters to UNHCR Geneva urging them to investigate the situation. Protest letters can be sent to: UNHCR Geneva, Fax: +42-22-739-7353, E-mail: hqpr00@unhcr.ch; UNHCR Turkey, Fax: 0090-312-438-2702, E-mail: turan@unhcr.ch.