March 14, 2024
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Spencer Tilger, [email protected]
REFUGEE MOTHER STRANDED IN IRAQ SUES GOVERNMENT TO RETURN TO SAFETY IN UNITED STATES WITH CHILDREN
(Greenbelt, MD) – Last night, Jane Doe, a refugee mother stranded in Iraq, requested a federal court allow her to return to safety in the United States with her children. By unlawfully preventing her from returning to the United States, the U.S. government is forcing Doe to choose between sending her children back to the United States by themselves, or staying in Iraq where the entire family faces threats. Doe’s name has been withheld for her safety. The lawsuit was filed by the International Refugee Assistance Project (IRAP) and Holwell Shuster & Goldberg.
Why is Jane Doe stranded in Iraq?
- Threats from Shiite militants
- Husband’s refugee application denied
- Fearing for family’s safety in Iraq
“Every day, I worry that my children and I will be harmed if we stay in Iraq,” said Jane Doe. “We are not able to live normal lives due to threats from militias, and I wish we were back in the United States where we will be safe. This is no way to live.”
What is the current situation?
- Children’s travel documents set to expire
- Family stranded in Iraq for over five years
- US government refusing Doe’s re-entry with children
“It is not uncommon for refugees to need to travel abroad during the first years of resettlement. The wait time to process applications for travel documents continues to grow, meaning families often aren’t able to get their applications approved before their travel date, or may apply from abroad. Moreover, they shouldn’t be required to have refugee travel documents to return,” said Kate Meyer, IRAP Litigation Staff Attorney.
How is IRAP advocating for Jane Doe?
- Motion for a preliminary injunction
- Complaint filed for Doe’s case
- IRAP providing legal aid and advocacy
The International Refugee Assistance Project (IRAP) develops and enforces a set of legal and human rights for refugees and displaced persons. Mobilizing direct legal aid, litigation, and systemic advocacy, IRAP serves the world’s most persecuted individuals and empowers the next generation of human rights leaders. Learn more about their work here.
Source: refugeerights.org