Canada’s Sluggish Hostage Aid

Despite the ongoing extension of my captivity in Greece, my diligent attempts to extricate myself from these unacceptable circumstances continue with steadfast resolve. The latest manifestation of these efforts was my recent visit to the Canadian Embassy in Athens, which took place on Thursday, December 14th, 2023. This was supplemented by an earlier electronic correspondence directed to the foremost pertinent Canadian authorities, dispatched roughly three weeks earlier.

The referenced electronic mail is a formal continuation of my previous communication from the preceding year, which was duly directed at both the Prime Minister of Canada, the Right Honourable Justin Trudeau, and the Honourable Marc Miller, the incumbent Minister of Immigration. In the year 2022, the Office of the Prime Minister had expeditiously relayed the matter at hand to the then-serving Minister of Immigration, the Honourable Sean Fraser, for due consideration. Regrettably, despite this referral, subsequent correspondence from the Minister’s office remained absent, thereby necessitating additional follow-up on my part.

Pursuant to the recent correspondence dated November 23rd, 2023, the Office of the Prime Minister had once again delegated the matter to the Office of the immigration minister for deliberation. Regrettably, the response emanating from the Minister’s Office on November 27th, 2023, was deemed utterly unsatisfactory, offering merely a perfunctory referral of the issue back to the UNHCR office or suggesting alternative impracticable solutions, such as the procurement of Private Sponsors. This was in complete disregard for the well-considered and viable propositions I presented, as well as the extensive details provided, despite the prolonged adversities I have continually endured in the vicinity of the UNHCR premises in Athens throughout the preceding decade.

The unsatisfactory response from the Minister’s office, in conjunction with the substandard reception encountered at the Canadian Embassy in Athens on December 14th, 2023—a matter I shall elaborate on shortly—necessitated the re-escalation of the issue to the Office of the Prime Minister. Subsequently, the issue was, for a second time, referred back to the Minister’s office for further consideration. It remains uncertain whether a subsequent communication from the Minister's office is to be anticipated.

It is imperative to underscore that my communications with Canadian authorities commenced two years prior to the precipitous disruptions that completely destabilized my life in Southern Kurdistan, commonly referred to as Northern Iraq. This prolonged period of engagement involved persistent liaisons with the Canadian Embassies in both Jordan and Turkey. The objective was to solicit their support in enhancing my Birth Certificate, so it could function as a Passport, enabling me to adhere to standard immigration protocols for entry into Canada as opposed to seeking asylum/resettlement as a refugee.

Prior to the disruptions instigated by the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), I was engaged in a flourishing vocation that afforded me both substantial recompense and the potential for international assignments contingent upon the resolution of my passport-related complexities. However, due to unacknowledged correspondences with Canadian Embassies, the unwarranted revocation of my legally obtained residence-permit by the KRG, and the exacerbation of my already grave plight following endeavors to salvage my life through the UNHCR’s regional office—mirroring their past decade of reckless dealings in Greece—I ultimately had no alternative but to escape the region. Subsequently, I resumed these endeavors upon my arrival in Greece in 2014.

Yet, despite numerous attempts to engage through direct visits to their embassy in Athens—documented expediently for the public record—their inaction in providing the necessary assistance persists. Correspondence soliciting an audience with the Ambassador has often gone unrecognized, access to the Embassy grounds perpetually denied, and to date, no official has made themselves available to address my concerns in an environment devoid of duress.

The most recent engagement with their embassy adhered to the persistent pattern previously encountered. Despite dispatching written entreaties for an audience with the distinguished and recently appointed Ambassador Karine Asselin, proffered respectively on November 23rd and December 07th, 2023, my overtures elicited no response. The reception's conduct did not meet expected standards and was therefore decidedly unsatisfactory, culminating in an inability to secure an audience with any embassy officials, including Ambassador Asselin herself.

Upon my presumed anticipated arrival—foreknowledge likely attributable to the consistent surveillance by entities monitoring my activities outside the UNHCR office—I was greeted with the sight of the reception’s curtain being drawn near to closing. Nevertheless, with resolve and prior to affixing my Banner to a metallic electrical pole located at the corner of their establishment—directly opposite the entrance, with the reception area being a mere few paces to the left—I advanced towards the embassy. Post customary exchange of salutations with the receptionist, I forthrightly articulated, “I request an audience with the esteemed Canadian Ambassador, Ms. Karine Asselin.”

The receptionist, a woman of indeterminate age partially concealed behind the drapery, courteously acknowledged my entreaty and indicated her intention to notify the Embassy officials posthaste. Upon asserting the urgency of my circumstances, I then gestured towards the specific site where my banner was to be displayed, stating my intention to await an audience with the representatives at that spot. After affixing my banner to the electric pole, I presented myself once again at the reception to ascertain whether my initial request had been properly relayed to the appropriate parties. To which, she replied unambiguously with a level of formality, “Yes, the Ambassador has been notified.”

I thus articulated, “Would you be so kind as to notify them with due emphasis that I am earnestly requesting the Ambassador’s immediate presence at the entrance? The matter pertains to my earlier correspondence soliciting an appointment, dated November 23rd and December 07th, 2023, and it is of the utmost urgency.” Despite this, the receptionist's response was devoid of elaboration, simply echoing, “The Ambassador has been apprised.” Persisting in my efforts, I suggested that she note the referenced dates to underscore their significance for their attention. After a momentary interlude, the receptionist merely proffered her initial affirmation, articulating, “The Ambassador has been duly informed, Sir.”

In acknowledgement of her remarks, I concurred and added, "Indeed, I am aware. As per your previous assertions. Nevertheless, might I trouble you to document these particulars and convey to the respective parties that I am respectfully requesting the Ambassador’s immediate presence at the entrance? My numerous years of visits to this Embassy lend weight to my request to meet with the Ambassador." Regrettably, despite an extended period of anticipation at the reception, she opted not to provide any further communication.

Whilst I maintained my position adjacent to the reception area, a female individual, ostensibly in her mid-twenties, made her presence known. It was a mere two minutes before the receptionist bestowed her attention upon the newcomer, electing to forgo a response to my earlier, as-yet unanswered inquiry. Their conversation, held in Greek, was brief, encompassing no more than two minutes before she was granted entry onto the Embassy premises. A key was entrusted to her for the express purpose of securing her electronic devices in one of the designated lockers at the entrance, aligning with the Embassy’s stipulations against bringing such items within its confines.

Concurrently, another individual made an appearance, this time an elderly gentleman who appeared to be in his mid-sixties. He, too, was promptly accorded precedence. Amidst this, the receptionist turned her attention back to me, invoking my surname, “Mr. Nillufary, would you kindly relocate yourself for a duration of three minutes to the area indicated by your banner?” with a discreet additional instruction, “I must insist on no recordings, please.”

Nonetheless, prior to yielding my position at the reception, I seized the occasion to reassert my earlier entreaties, “I must insist upon noting these specific dates and the prompt notification of the pertinent authorities; it is of the utmost importance that I secure an audience with the Ambassador. My predicament is of utmost urgency. Given the protracted duration of my visits here, it is imperative that the urgency of my case is understood. I earnestly petition for the Ambassador’s attention at the entrance.”

Despite this, the receptionist merely reiterated her previous assertion, “The Ambassador has been duly notified.” In retort, I articulated, "Your notification did not encompass the nature of their response. It is within my rights to request an audience with them. My plea for asylum necessitates an unambiguous response." She then pronounced, “Regrettably, we are merely security personnel and are not privy to such information.” Acknowledging this limitation, I persisted, "Precisely, your lack of information underscores the importance of my request—that my message be conveyed forthwith. The Ambassador’s presence is hereby solicited at the entrance."

She then articulated with emphasis, echoing her previous statement, “The Ambassador has been duly notified.” Upon which I inquired with brevity, “What is their position on the matter?" Nevertheless, in the absence of additional communication from her end, I then pronounced, “I shall return shortly.” Consequently, I vacated the vicinity to allow for the reception of the newly arrived individual who lingered nearby.

Upon my subsequent return to the reception following the conclusion of the other party's affairs, I renewed my request with decorum, stating, "If I may, I sought the Ambassador's presence outside at the entrance." Despite my reiterated plea, the receptionist merely parroted her initial reply, "The Ambassador has been duly notified." Consequently, I expressed, "Precisely such was your statement before, yet you omitted to convey any subsequent communication from their end." Unyielding, she maintained, "Regrettably, I am not privy to that information."

Accordingly, I articulated, "I request an audience with an appropriate representative." To which she replied, "Indeed, as previously mentioned, the Ambassador has been apprised of your request." Pursuing the matter further, I queried, "May I be enlightened as to the nature of the response to my inquiry? It is imperative that I confer with the Ambassador. Will their Excellency grace us with their presence shortly, or should I anticipate an alternative arrangement? My affairs are of a pressing nature." The receptionist interceded, stating, "Regrettably, I am not privy to that information." I reaffirmed, "I strongly insist upon receiving a definitive response to my inquiry."

The receptionist responded, articulating, "Regrettably, my role here is confined to that of a security officer. The Ambassador has been duly notified of the situation, and beyond that, my knowledge is limited." Upon further inquiry regarding the feasibility of establishing a communication channel from the reception, she opted not to furnish an answer. Despite my persistent efforts, addressing her by her respective designations such as 'security' and 'reception', there was no forthcoming response.

A DHL courier effectuated the delivery of a parcel whilst I remained proximal to the reception area. Subsequent to his egress, I endeavored to engage the receptionist’s attention on multiple occasions by utilizing appellations such as "Miss," "Security," and "Reception." Finally, she offered a response, articulating, "Sir, as previously communicated, the Ambassador has been duly apprised of the matter. Beyond this point, my knowledge is not expansive." In retort, I intoned, "I have a pair of inquiries. Should I anticipate an emissary to greet me outside? You have indicated ignorance on the matter; might I trouble you to make inquiries? Alternatively, could you establish a communication channel through the reception?"

Her response was articulated thusly, “Kindly correspond with them through electronic mail.” In turn, I elaborated, “Indeed, such action has already been taken. Nonetheless, as I am presently on the premises, my preference leans towards securing a communication channel from reception should there be no response at the entrance.” She then inexplicably reiterated her initial statement, “The Ambassador has been duly apprised of the situation.” Consequently, I expressed with emphasis, “That does not constitute a suitable response to my inquiry. May I request the establishment of a communication channel from the reception?”

The receptionist yielded a response, stating unequivocally, "It is beyond my capacity to furnish an answer in the absence of the requisite information." In retort, I proposed, "Perhaps it would be prudent to inquire." Notwithstanding the passage of a substantial interval, ensuring without a response, I ventured to ask again, "Might you be willing to make an inquiry?" Yet, after another extended period of anticipation, my query was left unacknowledged. Compounding the situation, the reception area was entirely obscured by the drawn curtain, rendering any occupants behind them out of sight.

Consequently, I articulated a formal complaint, stating, “Pardon me, this does not adhere to proper conduct. I have posed two inquiries, and it is my expectation to receive the corresponding responses.” Despite this, the curtain remained closed, and my subsequent efforts, including knocking on the windowpanes, failed to elicit any response.

Whilst I continued awaiting service at the reception area, an individual who had previously been granted access within the Embassy’s confines, duly returned the safe deposit box key to the attendant behind the reception upon their egress whilst the drapery maintained its closed disposition. Vigilantly observing the vicinity via the surveillance apparatus, the reception attendant promptly acknowledged the departing individual and retrieved the key through a diminutive aperture beneath the windowsill. Nevertheless, despite these interactions, the attendant persisted in neglecting my previous inquiries, maintaining her silence even after my additional attempt as I rapped gently on the windowpane and reiterated, “Pardon me, my earlier inquiries have yet to be addressed. Might I inquire if you are available?”

Notwithstanding the protracted period of standing by the reception, culminating in a considerable degree of fatigue, the absence of a response necessitated a temporary withdrawal to my Banner’s location for a brief respite upon the frigid pavement. By that juncture, the time had advanced to two o’clock post meridian. Observing from afar, my attention was drawn to yet another party who approached the reception and was promptly acknowledged, whilst the curtains remained emphatically closed.

After the completion of the discourse between the newly arrived individual and the receptionist, an additional security officer stationed at the neighboring sector, which also serves as the ingress point to the Embassy premises, unlatched the portal to accept a parcel from the individual in question. Said person, in possession of two packages of matching appearance, imparted one unto the custody of the receptionist sans entering the premises and expeditiously vacated the vicinity thereafter.

At approximately two-forty post meridiem, I revisited the reception again to inquire about the status of my earlier queries. By that time, nearly three hours had elapsed since my initial engagement upon arrival at the facility. Despite the apparent disregard for my renewed salutations by the receptionist, I persisted with dignified civility, articulating, "Excuse me, I am facing a predicament. I presented several inquiries earlier, for which I require elucidation. Should you be unable to furnish the requisite information, might I implore you to summon an alternative representative capable of addressing my concerns?"

Nevertheless, despite repeated entreaties, including additional calls and tapping on the windowpanes, she remained unresponsive. “Excuse me! Reception, can you hear me? Is it possible to communicate?” I implored. Yet, her silence persisted. It became evident that further lingering by the entrance or enduring the frigid pavement alongside my Banner would invariably lead to detrimental health effects, an entirely untenable situation, particularly amidst the grips of severe daily starvation and chronic fatigue resulting from years of incessant, yet unresolved tribulations outside the UNHCR office. Consequently, I gathered my belongings and departed the premises, still bereft of answers to my pressing enquiries.

Irrespective of the notably unsatisfactory engagement experienced once again at their Embassy, it remains to be seen if Canada will ultimately grant me asylum. Nonetheless, in the interest of maintaining transparency, the video record of my Embassy visit on December 14th, 2023, is accessible for evaluation here.

Conclusions:

Amidst the daunting tribulations encountered in Greece over the past decade, I earnestly solicit any institution, corporation, entity, or individuals endowed with ample financial capabilities to consider with due gravity the dire nature of my circumstances and contemplate contributing to my Fundraising initiative set forth Herein. A benevolent contribution from your end would be of immense assistance in mitigating the unrelenting adversities that I am striving to surmount.

“Donate now to support a Refugee directly.”

Your philanthropic donations, regardless of size, possess the potential to enact significant change. An ongoing and steadfast monetary pledge would be deeply valued.

Additionally, it is imperative to expedite the advancement of the campaign by disseminating relevant details through various communication channels, including social media, email, and text messaging. Your commitment to fostering participation in this commendable endeavor is greatly appreciated.

Moreover, it would be highly beneficial to the initiative should you graciously extend your support to my online petition through endorsement and assisting in its broader distribution.

Sign the Petition here.

Should you consider yourself sufficiently prepared to contribute to the advancement of this noble cause, your involvement would represent a significant display of unity in the face of the inequitable struggle for justice and freedom that I have resolutely faced in the past decade.

Moreover, considering the ongoing detrimental activities in Greece, I earnestly entreat all members of the press and media, encompassing distinguished correspondents and news writers, to consider coordinating their endeavors in bringing this issue to the attention of the broader populace. By undertaking such action, we may aid in upholding the principles of justice and the rule of law, as opposed to promulgating injurious narratives.

In conclusion, I wish to express my profound gratitude and respectfully request your careful consideration and decision on this matter, in the hope that it will greatly benefit our shared human community.

Your immediate action is required.

Hostage of Europe / Anwar Nillufary

Published: Monday, January 08th, 2024

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