Tight Spaces gives insight into the journeys of these resilient young people in search of safety and their experiences in Ireland’s international protection system. It aims to raise awareness of Ireland’s Direct Provision system and intends to bridge the gap in knowledge for young people in Ireland on this topic.
The resource provides some definitions and facts at the beginning, setting the global context of what causes individuals and families to make the heart-breaking decision to flee their home and seek safety in another country. This follows with a deeper look at Ireland and the system of Direct Provision. The voices of young people currently living in Direct Provision are threaded throughout, as they express the reality they are facing. This is a very important aspect of this resource - it was the intention of all who were involved in its development that the voices of those impacted by this issue are central.
Tight Spaces was created with funding from Concern Worldwide, the National Youth Council of Ireland, and Irish Aid.
Hear what young people who participated had to say:
I wanted to create a safe space for young people to be able to share where they come from. I didn't have that when I was living in Direct Provision.
Nike Monisola Awoyemi-IRC Young Leader
For me, it was the right thing to do. It is now that we can shape the future, and be a voice for the voiceless. I have lived experience of this system and feel that I have an obligation to create a change. It was also very encouraging to work with other young people who did not live in Direct Provision but recognised the injustice in it and wanted to work towards creating change also.
Abdulai Mansaray-IRC Young Leader
I wanted to raise awareness of Direct Provision and to create a booklet that will educate people about what is happening in their surroundings and to encourage integration and a sense of welcoming.
Marwa Zamir-IRC Young Leader