syrian refugees — A group of Syrian refugees living in Cyprus has published a letter responding to an op-ed penned by the general manager of the Israel-Cyprus Chamber of Commerce, which appeared in Phileleftheros. In their letter, the refugees sought to clarify their circumstances and challenge the negative perceptions that have been perpetuated about them.
The letter was shared by Far Right Watch Cyprus, which noted that the Syrian community members chose to remain anonymous due to fears of backlash. They described the original op-ed as a “racist rant” that unfairly targeted specific ethnic and religious groups.
In their statement, the refugees made it clear that their migration to Cyprus was a result of the devastating war and political unrest that has plagued Syria. They expressed, “When your house is bombed, when you are persecuted for what you are, when your right to life is stolen, you do not ‘choose’ uprooting. You run. You survive. It is human.” This poignant message highlighted the dire circumstances that forced them to leave their homeland.
The letter also addressed the accusations that asylum seekers are a burden on the economy. The refugees countered these claims by explaining their contributions to the Cypriot labour market, stating, “Refugees and asylum seekers, including Syrians, work in important sectors of the economy. We build our daily lives here.” They emphasised their active participation in society, paying into the National Health System and Social Insurance Fund, despite often not having the opportunity to benefit from these systems.
Furthermore, the refugees challenged the general manager of the Israel-Cyprus Chamber of Commerce, asking, “Among others, do you know who works in the construction sector, Mr Cohen, so that you can, in turn, promote investment opportunities at the Israel-Cyprus Chamber of Commerce?” This direct appeal underscored their role as essential contributors to the Cypriot economy.
In a broader context, the refugees reflected on their shared experiences with the Cypriot people, noting that Cyprus has its own history of invasion and displacement. They urged their fellow citizens to empathise with their plight, stating, “Cyprus, more than any other European country, can understand the pain of refugees.” They reminded Cypriots of the bonds formed through shared suffering, urging for a narrative that views refugees not as threats, but as individuals seeking to survive.
The letter concluded with a call for solidarity, as the refugees implored Cypriots to support truth, justice, and humanity. They articulated a clear distinction between those fighting for survival and those perpetuating oppression, stating, “The real destabilizers are not refugees; they are bombs, occupations and political games that create refugees.” Their final remark echoed the title of the op-ed, suggesting it is indeed not too late for Cyprus to embrace a compassionate stance towards those seeking refuge.
