Students of color say it is very difficult for them to leave Ukraine. Under the hashtag #AfricansinUkraine they share their stories. For example, how they are often refused on trains and buses, and how difficult it can be to cross the border.
Patricia Daley is a Kenyan-British lawyer and activist who tries to help the students. She speaks of a pattern of discrimination. Her team is in contact with thousands of students on the run. “I quickly found out that many foreign students have a very hard time. Not only Africans but all people of color, including from India for example, have many difficulties to get out and not get the same access to transport or accommodation.”
According to her, there are two standards at the border. “There is segregation: all people of color have to stand in separate rows. And even if they have their passports and student visas in order, it is made very difficult for them, especially at the Polish border.” Nigerian President Buhari expressed his displeasure about this yesterday.
NOS spoke with African students who fled Ukraine.
–
