Feb 11 • 04:00 UTC 🇮🇱 Israel Haaretz

Israel Prevents Refugees from Obtaining Permanent Status, Even After Decades in the Country

Israel continues to deny refugees permanent status, leaving many in legal limbo even after living in the country for decades.

The article highlights the plight of refugees in Israel, specifically focusing on the story of Gando Barry, a 42-year-old man from Sierra Leone who has lived through unimaginable trauma. Barry, whose family was decimated during a decade-long civil war in Sierra Leone, struggles with the psychological scars of his past, having faced abduction, exploitation, and the murder of close family members. His fragmented words reflect the deep-seated trauma that continues to affect him daily, echoing the experiences of many other refugees in similar situations.

Despite having lived in Israel for many years, refugees like Barry face significant hurdles in achieving permanent residency status. The Israeli government's policies regarding refugees often leave them in a precarious legal status, devoid of rights and protections that come with permanent residency. This bureaucratic impasse can lead to ongoing psychological distress and instability for individuals who are already grappling with their traumatic pasts and uncertain futures.

The implications of these policies extend beyond individual stories of hardship; they reflect broader issues related to how countries handle refugee populations and their obligations under international law. By continuing to deny permanent status to refugees, Israel risks isolating and marginalizing this community, further complicating their ability to integrate into society and access essential services. Barry's story serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of such policies, urging a reevaluation of how refugees are treated within the country.

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