Trapped for 20 Years: Iranian Refugees in Malaysia Struggle Without Work, Identity, or Sta

Trapped for 20 Years: Iranian Refugees in Malaysia Struggle Without Work, Identity, or Sta

The Issue

 

Iranian refugees in Malaysia have been living in legal uncertainty for more than a decade, and in some cases up to 20 years, without the ability to work legally or secure a stable livelihood.

For many years, a significant number of Iranian refugees have remained trapped in a prolonged state of legal limbo, without access to durable solutions such as legal status or resettlement. This extended uncertainty has made it nearly impossible to live with dignity, stability, and basic human security.

Despite their efforts to survive, many refugees are denied the right to work legally, forcing them to carry the burden of high living costs, education, and healthcare expenses without reliable income. This ongoing financial pressure has placed immense strain on individuals and families, pushing many into poverty, hardship, and social isolation.

Over time, these conditions have caused deep and lasting harm. Families have been torn apart, individuals have suffered serious psychological distress, and some have tragically lost their lives. Many refugees are raising children born in Malaysia who face an uncertain future, lack of legal identity, and limited opportunities for stability and growth.

In addition to these challenges, many Iranian refugees report that they do not feel fully safe, even in Malaysia. Some have experienced intimidation and pressure to remain silent, particularly from individuals aligned with the Islamic Republic of Iran.

Despite the existence of international protection frameworks, Iranian refugees continue to face prolonged delays, lack of transparency, and insufficient attention to their cases compared to other groups.

Given the current situation in Iran, many refugees are unable to return safely due to credible fears for their security and well-being.

🚨 We call on the international community to take urgent action:

Conduct an independent and transparent investigation into the situation of Iranian refugees in Malaysia

Accelerate refugee status determination and resettlement processes

Ensure equal, fair, and non-discriminatory treatment

Enable refugees to access lawful means of earning a livelihood to support themselves and their families

Protect the dignity, safety, and fundamental human rights of all refugees

Your signature can help bring visibility to this urgent humanitarian issue and push for meaningful change.

1,474

The Issue

 

Iranian refugees in Malaysia have been living in legal uncertainty for more than a decade, and in some cases up to 20 years, without the ability to work legally or secure a stable livelihood.

For many years, a significant number of Iranian refugees have remained trapped in a prolonged state of legal limbo, without access to durable solutions such as legal status or resettlement. This extended uncertainty has made it nearly impossible to live with dignity, stability, and basic human security.

Despite their efforts to survive, many refugees are denied the right to work legally, forcing them to carry the burden of high living costs, education, and healthcare expenses without reliable income. This ongoing financial pressure has placed immense strain on individuals and families, pushing many into poverty, hardship, and social isolation.

Over time, these conditions have caused deep and lasting harm. Families have been torn apart, individuals have suffered serious psychological distress, and some have tragically lost their lives. Many refugees are raising children born in Malaysia who face an uncertain future, lack of legal identity, and limited opportunities for stability and growth.

In addition to these challenges, many Iranian refugees report that they do not feel fully safe, even in Malaysia. Some have experienced intimidation and pressure to remain silent, particularly from individuals aligned with the Islamic Republic of Iran.

Despite the existence of international protection frameworks, Iranian refugees continue to face prolonged delays, lack of transparency, and insufficient attention to their cases compared to other groups.

Given the current situation in Iran, many refugees are unable to return safely due to credible fears for their security and well-being.

🚨 We call on the international community to take urgent action:

Conduct an independent and transparent investigation into the situation of Iranian refugees in Malaysia

Accelerate refugee status determination and resettlement processes

Ensure equal, fair, and non-discriminatory treatment

Enable refugees to access lawful means of earning a livelihood to support themselves and their families

Protect the dignity, safety, and fundamental human rights of all refugees

Your signature can help bring visibility to this urgent humanitarian issue and push for meaningful change.

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Petition created on 31 March 2026