Afghan asylum seeker Tabriz Saifi has regained access to life-saving medical care after Turkish authorities reversed their decision to reject his family’s application for international protection. This important step came after sustained pressure from Amnesty International activists and allies, showing once again the power of collective action.
Authorities reverse rejection
On May 2, 2025, the Bursa Directorate of Migration Management contacted the Saifi family and invited them to a meeting. During the meeting, officials informed them that the February 2025 decision to reject their application for international protection was being overturned. The application will now be processed, and their asylum seeker status has been restored.
With this reversal, Tabriz Saifi once again has access to free healthcare and related services. This access is currently granted for an initial period of one year.
Activism makes a difference
This outcome was made possible by strong public pressure. Hundreds of activists responded to Amnesty International’s urgent action, urging authorities to reinstate Tabriz Saifi’s right to healthcare.
The actions of Amnesty International activists and others appealing to the authorities to reinstate Tabriz Saifi’s access to life-preserving medical care has been crucial in achieving this outcome,
The Human Rights Foundation of Türkiye
The Human Rights Foundation of Türkiye, which referred Saifi’s case to Amnesty, emphasized the impact of this solidarity. “The actions of Amnesty International activists and others appealing to the authorities to reinstate Tabriz Saifi’s access to life-preserving medical care has been crucial in achieving this outcome,” they said. “On behalf of Tabriz Saifi and his family, we are grateful to everyone who took this action.”
Thank you to everyone who raised their voice—your support made this victory possible.
NO FURTHER ACTION IS REQUESTED. MANY THANKS TO ALL WHO SENT APPEALS.
