The Hazara Diaspora Network has called on the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to review the asylum case of Benazir Norzad, a Hazara woman, in accordance with the principles of a fair trial and international commitments. In a statement released on Thursday, October 29 (7 Aqrab), the network expressed deep concern over the potential deportation of Ms. Norzad.
The statement urges American authorities to "accurately and comprehensively" assess the potential risks of her return to Afghanistan before making any decision about her deportation. The network emphasized that Ms. Norzad's ethnic identity and gender, as a Hazara woman, must be seriously considered when evaluating the potential dangers of her return to Taliban-ruled Afghanistan.
The network pointed to widespread concerns about systematic discrimination, security threats, and targeted violence against the Hazara community in Afghanistan. Numerous reports from human rights organizations have documented these threats. Furthermore, the severe restrictions imposed by the Taliban on women and girls have exposed them to serious human rights risks.
The Hazara Diaspora Network stated, "Decision-making on Ms. Norzad's asylum case must be based on credible evidence, an individual assessment of risks, and respect for human rights and dignity." The organization has asked the U.S. government to refrain from returning Ms. Norzad to Afghanistan or any other country that might endanger her safety until a fair review of her case is completed.
This call comes as the situation of Afghan refugees in various countries remains a pressing human rights concern. After the fall of the previous government in August 2021, thousands of Afghans who had worked with foreign forces or international organizations, or were at risk due to their ethnic identity, gender, or civil activities, fled the country.
Benazir Norzad's case has become symbolic of the difficult situation faced by Hazara refugees and Afghan women who encounter legal and bureaucratic obstacles in their search for a safe haven. Human rights activists hope this request will draw the U.S. government's attention to the vulnerable situation of these refugees.
Source: Hazara Diaspora Network Statement
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