Marjan Beryalay
NSW, Sydney
marjan.beryalay@gmail.com

Date: 04 July 2023

Mr. Michael Pezzullo AO
Secretary of the Department of Home Affairs
Department of Home Affairs,
PO Box 25, Belconnen ACT 2616

Subject: Urgent Appeal for Expediting the Cases of Two Afghan Hazara Applicants of Refugee and Special Humanitarian Visa

1- Primary Applicant: ZAINAB HAYATI
Date of Birth: 30 September, 1987
Citizenship: Afghanistan,
Applied for Refugee and Special Humanitarian Program on 14/01/2022
File No.: 2021038001
Proposer’s Name: Noria Beryalay
Proposer’s Date of Birth: 20/04/1972

2- Primary Applicant: HABIBULLAH MUHIBI
Date of Birth: 06 August 1968
Citizenship: Afghanistan
Applied for Refugee and Special Humanitarian Program on 10/09/2021
Application ID: IRIS 20381118101
File Number: 2021014247

Dear Mr. Michael Pezzullo,

We, as concerned citizens and permanent residents of Australia, respectfully present this petition on behalf of two families who have applied for the Australian Refugee and Special Humanitarian Visa Program. Trapped in a life-threatening situation in their home country, their prolonged stay in neighboring countries, including Iran and Pakistan, exposes them to an unwelcoming environment characterized by bullying, deprivation of basic needs, and the erosion of their dignity. This plight particularly affects Afghan individuals, especially the persecuted Hazara minority, who endure escalating trauma and anxiety, further compromising their mental well-being. Urgently expediting their cases is imperative to ensure their safety, provide vital support, and alleviate their distressing circumstances.

The Hayati and Muhibi families face persecution, violence, and grave threats to their lives in their own country of Afghanistan and they have sought refuge in our nation, by applying for our Refugee and Special Humanitarian visas. They are desperately seeking safety and an opportunity to rebuild their lives. It is our moral duty as compassionate citizens to ensure that they are granted protection and the chance to start afresh.

We firmly believe that every individual has the inherent right to be free from persecution. Human life and freedom hold significant value in international laws and our own laws. We are proud to know that human rights, especially those of persecuted minorities, women, and children, hold a significant place in Australian foreign policy, reflecting our government's commitment to promoting and protecting these rights globally.

We kindly request the government to expedite the processing of these two cases, considering the grave dangers they face in their home countries. Timely processing of their applications is crucial to ensure their safety and well-being.

We understand the challenges and complexities involved in addressing the needs of visa applicants. However, we firmly believe that our government has the capacity and responsibility to protect and assist those who are in great danger of being persecuted due to their race, religion, and beliefs. By extending our compassion and solidarity, we can demonstrate our commitment to human rights and global humanitarian values.

If the Australian government does not expedite the processing of their case and does not grant them and their family members visas, their lives and well-being would remain at risk. They would continue to live under the constant threat of persecution by the Taliban and terrorist groups in their home country. Their safety, freedom, and human rights would remain compromised, potentially leading to further harm, violence, or even loss of life. Urgent action is necessary to ensure their protection and provide them with the opportunity to rebuild their lives in a safe environment.

We kindly request your urgent attention to this matter and appreciate your swift action to safeguard the lives of these two Hazara families. We trust in your commitment to justice, fairness, and upholding human rights principles.

Thank you for your attention and understanding. We eagerly await a positive response that reflects the compassionate values of our nation.

Sincerely,

Marjan Beryalay