#RethinkingRefugee: Myth vs Reality
For too many, the word “refugee” comes with misconceptions. At ACH, our #RethinkingRefugee campaign is committed to correcting these wrong perceptions, encouraging understanding, and inviting communities to see the real stories behind refugee lives. Refugees are people who didn’t choose this path. They’re people who fled homes they loved, families they were forced to leave behind, and familiar lives they had to abandon – all for the hope of survival.
This article will explore common myths surrounding refugees and open the real stories grounded in facts and appreciation for the journeys they undertake to build new lives.
Myth 1: Refugees take resources away from communities
Reality: Refugees are valuable contributors to their communities – economically, culturally, and socially. Many are skilled professionals and entrepreneurs who are eager to give back to their communities. Research shows that when refugees are given the support to thrive, they help drive local economies, support business growth, and bring fresh perspectives to various industries.
Here are some examples:
https://ach.org.uk/news-and-features/bringing-businesses-life-launching-rocket-man-bristol
Myth 2: Refugees choose to leave for a better life
Reality: For most refugees, leaving home isn’t a choice. They are forced to flee due to war, persecution, or life-threatening circumstances. Their journey is not about “seeking opportunity” but about survival. This reality is an essential part of rethinking refugees: seeing them as individuals who make immense sacrifices to protect their families and future. Recognising the courage in such a decision reframes refugees as agents of resilience adapting to circumstances, they never wished for, but courageously face.
Myth 3: Every single asylum seeker is a criminal
Reality: Under international law, seeking asylum is fully legal. These are people who flee their countries due to conflict, violence, or the fear of getting persecuted. They often risk their own lives, so that they can get to safety. On arriving in a country, these individuals are screened and go through various checks. Most are just people looking for stability and happiness and are far from being criminals.
A Refugee’s Route to Resettlement
The route to resettlement for refugees is rarely straightforward. It is mostly made up of:
1. Fleeing immediate Danger: Leaving behind homes, jobs, and loved ones under emergency conditions
2. Temporary resettlement: Many refugees initially stay in overcrowded camps, sometimes for years, without certainty of a permanent home.
3. Screening and application processes: Refugees undergo extensive security checks before being approved for resettlement, ensuring that they meet stringent requirements.
4. Adjusting to new communities: Once resettled, refugees must navigate new languages, cultural differences, and systems while often coping with past trauma.
Now, we invite you to pause for a moment and imagine yourself going through all of this and more. How does that genuinely feel?
The journey of a refugee is one of survival, resilience, and a strong will to overcome. By understanding their story, we see them not as victims but as individuals courageously facing unimaginable challenges to build a new life.
Humanity over Sympathy:
At ACH, #RethinkingRefugee goes beyond awareness - it’s about real connection. Recognising refugees as individuals with ambitions, talents, and the determination to succeed helps us see them as a part of our shared community.
When we begin to truly Rethink Refugee, we can build a community that appreciates the grit, resilience, and contributions they bring. When we break down myths and see the person behind the label, we can build communities where refugees are valued.
We are committed to helping refugees build stable, fulfilling lives. Here’s how:
a. Housing support: We’re providing stable housing options that give refugees a secure start and a foundation for their future.
b. Employment and Skills Training: From career-focused programs to practical skills training (Go Digital Program, English for Work), we’re creating pathways to meaningful employment.
c. Community Integration: Our #RethinkingRefugee campaign is about building inclusive communities and changing outdated perspectives around refugees.
d. Support for entrepreneurs: We’re empowering refugee entrepreneurs to launch and grow their businesses, adding value to their communities.
With every step we take, we are rethinking refugee and what it means to welcome and support these individuals, are you?
