Assalamu Alaikum Ya Nesan!

The members of the United Nations have adopted many policies regarding the rights of refugees, and outlined the responsibilities of member nations towards civilians fleeing conflict. The spirited wording of these resolutions and the treatment it receives in the media has created a sense of security among the global civilian population that they have some hope should conflict affect them. However the present conflict in the Middle East has shown us that being a refugee can be deadlier than standing your ground against an oppressor.

The journey in fleeing your home when a conflict strikes is extremely perilous to begin with. Ocean crossings and border crossings bring death and suffering for many who attempt it. And for those that manage to survive the trip, the destination itself can turn hostile. Some countries may honor refugee rights and others may not, irrespective of whether they are a signatory to the refugee conventions. Some countries are not signatory to the convention, and ending up on the shores of any of them will put you into a limbo, where your future is far more uncertain than in a war zone. Exploitation, imprisonment, harassment, unbearable living conditions and abuse is wide spread among the refugee communities, and despite its extensive treatment of this subject, the United Nations seems unable to cope.

The death of Aylan Kurdi who drowned off the coastal town of Bodrum in Turkey

Even when the government of a destination country is willing to treat the refugees according to international law, the people of the land can be extremely hostile. The plight of the Rohigya people that came here is a stark reminder of the volatile fate of refugees. Germany has been an exemplary example where the government has done a fantastic job, in dealing with refugees from Syria, but a section of its people have taken it upon themselves to make matters unbearable for the newcomers, and even if these refugees are successful in getting asylum, their lives are at the mercy of these malicious segments of society.

Therefore in this day and age, our homeland is our most precious possession. As citizens we must be keenly involved in its affairs, and ensure it is passed on to the next generation with all the luxuries we enjoyed. No matter where you think you can immigrate to, and no matter how warm their invitation, you will never receive another home like that which you have now. Being detached, unconcerned, and careless about its affairs will ensure that you will be challenged for its possession, and when that happens there will be no place to run.

The Saracen is but small in number, and spread thinly in our blessed island. However our insignificance does not exclude us from the fear of others. For this reason, we must be far more innovative and indulgent in the affairs of the homeland, to ensure that our will is considered, and we can mitigate unfavorable circumstances from arising that will threaten our safety and comfort. The first step towards this is to support those that speak up for us and those that strive for our cause. Next is to be united with each other irrespective of differences. We can argue later. And most of all we must execute our civic duties with determination, foremost amongst them is voting. And when challenges arise it is more often than not, better to stay and fight for our rights, than fear and flee.

May Allah grant us peace and prosperity? Ameen!