Public Understanding

Abiba looking at Reza

Photo by Derek Speirs shows Julienne, Patrice Fuden Mancho, Abiba Ndeley and Reza Mirfattahi all who have experience of the asylum system and who work with the Irish Refugee Council in raising awareness on asylum and refugee issues.

A crucial part of the Irish Refugee Council's work is to create public awareness about the facts regarding asylum seekers, refugees and separated children and to counter misinformation. Behind the statistics are human beings, many of whom have suffered greatly in their  country of origin and are seeking protection here. We work to explain why asylum seekers have come to Ireland seeking safety and the difficulties that many encounter when going through the asylum process.

The IRC works to promote understanding between asylum seekers, refugees and the rest of the population. As part of this, the media plays a particularly important role. Many journalists report on this topic in a fair and balanced way ensuring accurate coverage of what can at times be a complex and sensitive area. We do however challenge unbalanced coverage, especially that which targets specific nationalities or is inaccurate.  

 The IRC  regularly sends out press releases (link) on relevant topics. Asylum seekers and refugees have extraordinary stories to tell of courage and resilience. We work with them and with journalists so that a fuller and more accurate picture emerges about their lives in Ireland today.

 IRC media work has focused on the Immigration, Residence and Protection Bill, highlighting the inadequacy of the Direct Provision allowances and unacceptable conditions in receptions centres, and upholding the rights of separated children. We send out regular press releases, keep in touch with journalists and involve asylum seekers and refugees in communication, advocacy skills and the lobbying of politicians.

 We also work to raise awareness of the global issues that lead to the forced migration of people from their countries and the issues that they face as asylum seekers and refugees.

 Part of this role is dispelling some  perceptions that asylum seekers are here to 'exploit the system'. 

 We seek to ensure that there is a better understanding  of the difference between refugees, asylum seekers,  undocumented immigrants and documented immigrants.

 For further information on asylum seekers and refugees in Europe please see the European Council on Refugees and Exiles www.ecre.org.

An excellent handbook of selected terms and concepts is People on the Move  a THP/UNESCO handbook available on www.thehagueprocess.org/publications

FOMACS the Forum on Migration and Communications www.fomacs.org for news and creative materials on migration