Aid For Refugees: Helping Those In Belarus

The ongoing Belarus border crisis has left thousands of migrants, including children, stranded at the EU border with Poland, Lithuania, and Latvia. The situation is dire, with people struggling against hypothermia, hunger, and exhaustion. The migrants, largely from the Middle East and Asia, are caught between the hostility of Polish authorities and the false promises of Belarus. Belarusian authorities have been accused of taking revenge for EU sanctions by offering migrants tourist visas and helping them cross the border. While Poland has been accused of pushing migrants back across the border, contrary to international rules of asylum. In this context, it is crucial to explore ways to help refugees in Belarus, ensuring their safety and providing them with immediate support.

Provide food, water, clothing, medical care, and shelter to refugees stranded at the EU border

Providing food, water, clothing, medical care, and shelter to refugees stranded at the EU border in Belarus is a complex and challenging task, due to restrictions imposed by the Belarusian government on humanitarian organisations. Here are some ways in which these essential provisions can be provided:

Food and Water:

• International organisations like the Red Cross are providing food parcels to refugees in certain areas. However, this supply is not regular or stable, and more needs to be done to ensure consistent access to food.
• Local organisations and individuals can distribute food and water directly to refugees in need. This may be challenging due to the restricted access to the border areas, but it is crucial to ensuring that people have enough to eat and drink.
• Advocate for the Belarusian government to allow more humanitarian organisations access to the border areas to provide these essential provisions. The current restrictions have limited the amount of aid that can reach those who need it.

Clothing:

• The Belarusian Red Cross provides clothing to asylum seekers, refugees, and those with complementary protection. They also offer humanitarian assistance and counsel on integration-related issues.
• Local communities and individuals can donate clothing to refugees through charities and organisations working directly with them. Ensuring access to suitable clothing is essential, especially during cold winter months.

Medical Care:

• Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has provided medical humanitarian assistance to refugees in Belarus since 2021. They have helped people access healthcare and mental health support, and they have referred people for treatment for various medical conditions, including frostbite, acute respiratory infections, chronic diseases, and physical trauma.
• Other international medical organisations, such as the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), can be encouraged to provide additional medical support to refugees.
• Local medical professionals can also offer their services to refugees, ensuring they have access to essential healthcare.

Shelter:

• Asylum seekers in Belarus have the right to live free of charge in temporary accommodation centres. However, there may be limited spaces available.
• Local communities and individuals can offer spaces in their homes or other suitable locations to provide temporary shelter for refugees.
• In the longer term, advocate for the Belarusian government to establish more permanent solutions, such as refugee camps or other forms of accommodation, to ensure refugees have safe and secure places to stay.

It is important to note that the situation for refugees at the EU border in Belarus is dangerous and unpredictable. There have been reports of violence, pushbacks, and human rights abuses by border guards on both sides of the border. Therefore, when providing any form of assistance, prioritising the safety and security of those offering help is also crucial.

Support organisations like Save the Children, which are working to ensure the safety of refugee children and their families

In 2022, UNICEF partnered with the Belarus Red Cross and other organisations to provide support to refugee children and their families. UNICEF supported 2,160 Ukrainian children and caregivers in Belarus from February 2022 to February 2023 with education, mental health and psychosocial support, information counselling, and child-centred recreation activities. The Belarus Red Cross provides humanitarian assistance, counsels on and facilitates integration-related issues, and assists in rebuilding family ties lost in the aftermath of armed conflicts.

Save the Children is another organisation working to ensure the safety of refugee children and their families in Belarus. In November 2021, the organisation called for immediate support for refugees, including children, stranded at the Poland-Belarus border. The refugees were facing hypothermia, hunger, and exhaustion, and their mental and physical health had deteriorated due to their perilous journeys. Save the Children urged the EU to provide these refugees with access to EU territories so they could request international protection. The organisation emphasised the need for food, water, clothing, adequate medical care, and shelter for the refugees.

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is another organisation that assists foreigners in Belarus by providing consultations on safe travel and stay abroad, as well as helping with voluntary returns to their countries of origin.

Additionally, the Belarusian Movement of Medical Workers' Refugee Counselling Service (RCS) provides free legal counselling on asylum, application for asylum, and legal assistance on other protection-related issues. They have offices in all regions of Belarus and can be reached through a hotline.

Help refugees with the asylum application process in Belarus

The asylum application process in Belarus can be complex and challenging, but there are several ways you can help refugees navigate it. Here are some detailed steps to assist refugees with their asylum applications:

• Understand the asylum process in Belarus: Familiarize yourself with the steps outlined on the UNHCR Belarus website. This will help you guide refugees through the process effectively. The process includes submitting an application for protection, participating in asylum interviews, and awaiting a decision by the state migration authority.
• Offer practical assistance: Refugees may need help with filling out the necessary forms and gathering required documentation. You can assist them in understanding what documents they need, such as identification documents, birth certificates, education and employment records, and membership cards. Help them organize and prepare their documents for submission.
• Provide language support: Many refugees may not speak the local language fluently. Offer translation or interpretation services to ensure they can effectively communicate their needs and experiences to the authorities. This can make a significant difference in ensuring their story and fears are accurately conveyed.
• Connect them with legal aid: Refugees have a better chance of success when they have legal representation. Help them find and access free legal counselling services, such as the Refugee Counselling Service (RCS) of the Belarusian Movement of Medical Workers. These services can provide valuable guidance and ensure their rights are protected throughout the process.
• Offer emotional support: The asylum application process can be stressful and emotionally draining. Provide a listening ear and help refugees cope with the stress and uncertainty they may be experiencing. Refer them to mental health services or counselling if needed.
• Assist with basic needs: Ensure that refugees' basic needs are met while they go through the asylum process. This includes access to food, clothing, shelter, and medical care. You can connect them to organizations like the Belarusian Red Cross (BRC) Society, which provides humanitarian assistance and facilitates integration-related issues.
• Advocate for their rights: Stay informed about the rights of asylum seekers in Belarus, as outlined by UNHCR. Be vigilant and speak up if you witness any violations of their rights, such as forced return or punishment for illegal entry. Know that asylum seekers have the right to be exempted from punishment for illegal entry if their intention was to seek asylum.
• Facilitate family reunification: Some refugees may have family members they wish to reunite with. Help them understand the family reunification process and provide support in navigating the necessary procedures. This can include providing documentation and facilitating communication with the relevant authorities.
• Monitor the situation: Stay updated on the evolving situation at the Belarus-EU border. Follow news and updates from organizations like Save the Children, which has been actively advocating for the rights and support of refugees stranded at the border. By staying informed, you can better understand the challenges and risks faced by refugees and adapt your assistance accordingly.
• Collaborate with organizations: Partner with local and international organizations that are actively supporting refugees and asylum seekers. This includes groups like Grupa Granica, a Polish Network of NGOs monitoring the situation, and Doctors Without Borders (MSF), which provides humanitarian assistance. Collaborating with these organizations can amplify your impact and ensure refugees receive comprehensive support.

Provide legal counselling and assistance to refugees seeking asylum

Providing legal counselling and assistance to refugees seeking asylum in Belarus is crucial to ensure they receive the protection they need. Here are some ways to help:

Understanding the Asylum Process in Belarus

Before providing legal counselling, it's essential to understand the asylum process in Belarus. Any foreigner in Belarus has the right to apply for asylum, regardless of their legal status in the country. The process typically involves the following steps:

• Application for Protection: Refugees can apply for asylum at the state migration authority offices in various regions, to border guards when entering the country or if caught for illegal border crossing, or to authorities if caught for illegal residence.
• Asylum Interview: This is a crucial step where applicants provide supporting documents and explain their claim. Refugees should bring identification documents, educational and employment records, membership cards, and any other relevant evidence.
• Decision by State Migration Authority: After the interview, the authorities will decide whether to grant refugee status or complementary protection.
• Appeal: If a refugee's application is rejected, they have the right to appeal the decision in court.

Direct Legal Assistance

Now, let's explore some ways to provide legal counselling and assistance:

• Informing Refugees of Their Rights: It's important to educate refugees about their rights during the asylum process. They have the right to confidentiality, protection from forced return, exemption from punishment for illegal entry (if seeking asylum), financial and accommodation assistance, and the ability to terminate the asylum procedure at any time.
• Document Collection and Preparation: Help refugees gather and prepare the necessary documents for their asylum interview. This includes identification documents, individual and status documents (birth certificates, marriage certificates, etc.), educational and employment records, and any other evidence supporting their claim.
• Legal Counselling Hotlines: Set up hotlines or helplines where refugees can call to receive free legal advice and counselling on asylum-related matters. This could be a crucial first point of contact for those seeking legal assistance.
• In-Person Legal Clinics: Establish in-person legal clinics or drop-in centres where refugees can receive direct legal assistance and counselling. These clinics can be staffed by lawyers or paralegals who can provide more tailored advice and help with completing applications.
• Translation Services: Offer translation services to help refugees navigate the legal process, especially if they don't speak the local language. This ensures they can effectively communicate their needs and concerns.
• Accompanying Refugees to Interviews: Provide refugees with emotional support and legal accompaniment during their asylum interviews. This can help ensure they feel less intimidated and can accurately convey their story and reasons for seeking asylum.
• Appeal Process Guidance: If a refugee's application is rejected, guide them through the appeal process, including helping them understand the timeline, required documentation, and additional evidence that may strengthen their case.

Advocate for the rights of refugees and asylum seekers, including the right to protection, care, and support

Advocating for the rights of refugees and asylum seekers in Belarus is crucial to ensure they receive the protection, care, and support they need. Here are some ways to achieve this:

Raise Awareness and Educate Others

Spread accurate information about the situation in Belarus and the rights of refugees and asylum seekers. Educate your community, friends, and family about the issues facing these individuals, including their struggles and the assistance they require. By raising awareness, you can foster empathy and encourage others to take action.

Stand Against Discrimination and Xenophobia

Refugees and asylum seekers in Belarus often face discrimination and xenophobia. Speak out against any instances of prejudice, racism, or negative stereotyping directed toward these individuals. Challenge discriminatory policies and practices and promote inclusion and respect for all, regardless of their nationality or status.

Support Local Organizations

Local organizations and NGOs in Belarus are dedicated to assisting refugees and asylum seekers. These organizations often have a deep understanding of the specific needs and challenges faced by these individuals. Consider volunteering your time or donating to reputable local organizations that provide legal aid, humanitarian assistance, or integration services to refugees and asylum seekers.

Advocate for Legal and Policy Changes

Engage with policymakers, government officials, and decision-makers to advocate for refugee rights. Push for legal and policy changes that protect refugees and asylum seekers, improve their access to essential services, and promote their social inclusion. This may include advocating for fair and efficient asylum procedures, family reunification policies, and access to education and employment opportunities.

Protect Vulnerable Groups

Refugee and asylum-seeking populations often include vulnerable groups such as children, women, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities. Advocate specifically for the rights and protection of these groups, ensuring their unique needs are addressed. Support organizations that provide specialized services, such as medical and psychological care, education for children, and assistance for victims of gender-based violence.

Monitor and Document Human Rights Violations

Stay informed about the treatment of refugees and asylum seekers in Belarus. Document and report any instances of human rights violations, including abuse, torture, or the denial of basic rights. Share this information with relevant authorities, human rights organizations, and the media to hold those responsible accountable and prevent further violations.

Frequently asked questions