Challenges Faced by North African Asylum Seekers in Switzerland
In 2024, over 80 percent of North African asylum seekers in Switzerland were documented as accused in criminal proceedings at least once. This alarming statistic has prompted discussions about the treatment and perceptions of individuals from this region. T. (42), an Algerian asylum seeker, shares his experiences in the Swiss asylum system, stating, "I want to be good, but they won't let me." After his asylum application was denied, he filed an appeal and is currently waiting while working for a meager wage in a federal employment program at a Zurich asylum center. M., a 22-year-old Algerian, echoes T.'s sentiments, expressing feelings of rejection: "Here, we are immediately seen as criminals," he tells 20 Minutes. His intent is not to engage in illegal activities but rather to work and pursue his passion for drawing.
These two men are part of a demographic that has been under intense scrutiny lately: North African asylum seekers. An internal assessment by the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM), reported by Blick, indicates that 80.5 percent of these individuals faced criminal accusations during their asylum procedures or following negative decisions in 2024. In response, government entities are working to enhance collaboration, close gaps in detention practices, and expedite the processing of those without realistic asylum prospects.
The Personal Stories Behind the Statistics
M. has recently returned to Switzerland after some time away. He reveals that his brother is currently imprisoned, although he does not know the specific location. His journey back was motivated by a desire to locate his brother, whom he describes as having "problems." Having previously lived in Switzerland, M. knows the challenges that lie ahead. His own asylum application has already been rejected, and he now finds himself homeless. He spent two days in custody, an experience that has taken a significant toll on his mental health: "I don’t want to go back to prison." As an Arab refugee, he feels it is particularly difficult to lead a respectable life in Switzerland. He describes encounters with the police as discriminatory, stating, "They stop us more often, treat us disrespectfully, and assume we are all criminals." He also perceives a negative portrayal of North Africans in the media and society, which he feels stigmatizes him. "It’s like a stamp that I cannot get rid of," he laments.
T.'s story is equally compelling, as he left Algeria due to his previous association with a criminal group from which he sought to distance himself. His attempts to escape that life were met with hostility, leading to fears for his safety compounded by financial difficulties. T. is adamant about his desire to work legitimately, stating, "I’m not a thief; I don’t even work under the table." However, he finds it challenging to secure regular legal employment. Like M., he feels marginalized and prejudged by authorities, which has eroded his optimism about building a better life in Switzerland. His preference would be to relocate to Belgium, Germany, or France, where he believes he may have better prospects. When discussing the SEM statistics, T. expresses little surprise, understanding how desperation can lead people to crime. "Our situation is often hopeless. Without money, perspective, or legal access to work, it’s easier to fall into temptation," he acknowledges.
Similarly, S. from Morocco has been following the discussions surrounding SEM data, often switching between French, English, and Arabic during conversations. He expresses sadness and frustration over the reports, highlighting how they exacerbate an already difficult situation for asylum seekers. "Our situation is already challenging, and these discussions make everything harder," he states before heading to an appointment for undocumented individuals.
What do these three men hope for? They desire to be judged not by their origins but by their character and actions, wishing for a fair chance rather than being perceived as a threat from the very first interaction.
As reported by 20min.ch.
