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Former Afghan Journalist Urges International Community Not To Turn A Blind Eye

Tuesday, 17 August 2021 06:52

Sayed Farid Sanai came to Portarlington in 2019, fleeing Taliban retribution for speaking out about the group.

A former Afghan journalist living in Ireland is calling on the international community not to turn a blind eye to his country. 

Sayed Farid Sanai came to Portarlington Direct Provision Centre in 2019, fleeing Taliban retribution for speaking out about the group.

The ex-broadcaster says thousands of lives are at risk, as well as homes, businesses and women's rights.

Mr. Sanai warns, without immediate intervention, other terrorist groups will seize their opportunity:

Up to 150 humanitarian visas are being made available by government for Afghans, under the Irish Refugee Protection Programme.

The visas will mean they won't have to enter the direct provision system upon arriving here.

Meanwhile an emergency meeting of EU Foreign Ministers will be held later to discuss the bloc's response to the crisis in Afghanistan.

MEP Frances Fitzgerald says there needs to be a particular focus on the plight of women and girls in the country:


In a televised address last night, the US President said the country's mission in Afghanistan was never meant to have been nation-building.

Joe Biden said he "stands squarely" behind his decision to withdraw after 20 years of conflict.

He acknowledged the Afghan government collapsed quicker than expected, but accused local leaders of 'giving up'.

President Biden said it was time to leave:

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