A man hailing from Africa, who endured severe persecution due to his sexual orientation, has sought sanctuary in Japan for the past four years following his escape from his homeland. However, with the implementation of a new law this month potentially impacting his deportation status, the man is fraught with apprehension regarding his future.
Despite his ongoing pursuit of refugee status, the man is prohibited from engaging in employment within Japan and is ineligible for enrollment in any health insurance programs. Yet, he maintains that, in comparison to returning to his home country, enduring imprisonment or even death in Japan would be preferable.
The man, in his 30s, recounts experiencing brutal violence at the hands of his family upon their discovery of his same-sex relationship, an act deemed illegal in his country. Speaking to the Mainichi Shimbun under conditions of anonymity, he detailed the physical assaults inflicted by his father and younger brother, including a harrowing ordeal of confinement and repeated beatings.
In a desperate bid to escape his perilous circumstances, the man arrived in Japan on a tourist visa at the end of 2019, accompanied by his partner at the time. Despite promptly applying for refugee status upon arrival, his initial application was rejected due to inadequate support during the application process. Reportedly, Japan maintains a stringent criteria for foreigners seeking refugee status, demanding compelling evidence of imminent persecution.
However, in February 2022, the man discovered support through the Osaka-based nonprofit organization RAFIQ, initiating legal action to challenge the government’s denial of his refugee application. With the assistance of RAFIQ and legal representation, he aims to present compelling evidence of his persecution, including threatening messages from his family.
Despite his ongoing legal battle, the man’s current situation remains precarious. Restricted from employment and health coverage, he survives on a daily allowance provided by a refugee assistance organization. His modest existence is marred by constant fear of deportation under the newly enacted law, which permits the expulsion of individuals with twice-rejected asylum applications.
Expressing his deep-rooted apprehension, the man confessed, “The mere thought of returning to my homeland fills me with dread. It’s unbearable.”
As the legal proceedings unfold and his second application for refugee status is prepared, the man’s plight underscores broader concerns regarding the treatment of vulnerable individuals within Japan’s immigration system. Keiko Tanaka, representative director of RAFIQ, emphasized the importance of transparent and compassionate implementation of immigration laws, particularly in cases where individuals face linguistic and cultural barriers.
In the face of uncertainty, the man remains resolute in his desire for a secure and dignified existence, echoing the sentiments of many asylum seekers navigating Japan’s complex legal landscape.