Wednesday, May 31, 2017

Umrah update: Day 5: Humans of Makkah:

Meet Abdul Karim who is Rohingya and hails from the Indo-Aryan people from the Rakhine State, Myanmar. The Rohingya are the most persecuted people on the planet and face scenes of widespread persecution, torture and death on a daily basis mainly at the hands of Burmese Buddhists.

The Rohingiya have zero recognition as Burmese citizens and receive little help from neighbouring countries and the global community. There are a small number of human rights organisations which advocate on behalf of these people.

In Saudi Arabia the Rohingya live in their own confined communities within the slums of Kudai and Naqqasha and can be found selling fruit and veg amongst carrying out other manual tasks. They have heritage and have been living in Saudi Arabia for almost 100 years. A few years ago they were able to apply for an Iqama permit which has provided a little security in a country where foreigners cannot be naturalised as citizens. This does however present the challenge of securing stable employment to pay for their increased costs in relation to their day to day living.

Karim is happy with his lot and grafts hard and long all year round as a fresh fruit purveyor in Makkah. He's a really jolly old chap and his smile permeates and brings radiance to his whole face and demeanour.

Compared to his country folk his life is one of ease. 

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