Bring TT children home

THE EDITOR: In the wake of several distressing incidents involving women and children in TT, I have received some comfort in knowing a conversation has been started. The rights of our women and children should be our nation’s priority, and we should be fighting for them wherever they are.

On March 24, the world commemorated the International Day for the Right to the Truth Concerning Gross Human Rights and for the Dignity of Victims. I suggest that we reflect on the lives of our citizens who have had their rights violated at home and that we think of those whose rights are disregarded abroad.

Among them are the women and children of our country who are currently living in inhumane conditions and facing physical abuse and sexual exploitation in refugee camps in Syria

Over 70,000 people are crowded together in makeshift tents which expose them to harsh winter, 122 Fahrenheit summer temperatures, unsafe water and diseases like chicken pox, measles, cholera and now covid19. They are suffering from severe malnutrition and dehydration and also battling with mental health problems like anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Many of these families were taken to Syria based on false assumptions of a better life. The children of course had no choice in the matter. Almost forgotten for two years by their own countrymen, they now find themselves in the midst of a conflict zone and in real danger of being influenced by radical groups.

As we commemorate the importance of being open about gross human rights violations, I hope our government is thinking about our nationals who are far from our shores and are being denied the most basic rights of life. We can protect them just as we are striving to protect those within our borders. Please TT, let’s work to bring them home.

R KHAN

via e-mail