Polio vaccine
My participation in the polio vaccine campaign Helping future generations
One of the most important humanitarian projects in which I participated several times was participating in the polio vaccination campaign. The aim of this campaign was to immunize children against polio and prevent the spread of this disease in Afghanistan. In this project, direct contact with children and families was a unique experience for me. Seeing small and innocent faces, who gave vaccines with open hands and without fear, strengthened the sense of responsibility and hope in my heart.
Changing children's lives
The “Wakil Guzar” system in Herat is an integral part of the city’s social and cultural structure. A Wakil Guzar acts as a representative of the people in a specific neighborhood, serving as a bridge between the community and the government. Their responsibilities include addressing local disputes, conveying the needs and issues of residents to government officials, and assisting in the implementation of community projects. This system is deeply rooted in Afghanistan’s traditions and plays a vital role in fostering connections between citizens and the state.
During my time in Herat, Mr. Seyed Hashem, the Wakil Guzar, and Dr. Soroush from Herat Central Hospital supported me on several occasions, providing valuable assistance in advancing various processes and initiatives. Their help made challenging paths more manageable and offered me meaningful experiences.
Additionally, regular training sessions related to these efforts were held at Herat Central Hospital, significantly enhancing my knowledge and capabilities. Participating in multiple rounds of polio campaigns in various areas—as both a vaccinator and a monitor—gave me a profound sense of responsibility and a deeper appreciation for the international community’s commitment to Afghanistan. I was proud to be a part of this cycle of support and relief, contributing to efforts that made a positive impact on people’s lives.
But this work was not without challenges. Attending this campaign in high-risk areas, especially in some provinces under the control of armed groups, was associated with serious threats. During the campaign, several cases of killings and shootings of vaccinators were recorded in other provinces, clearly indicating serious risks. These vaccinators were targeted by direct fire just to carry out a humanitarian mission and save children’s lives
Polio campaigns have always been accompanied by significant risks, particularly in areas where access and security posed challenges. These efforts required careful coordination with Wakil Guzar and local elders to ensure the safety of the teams and the communities involved. The risks included facing resistance or misinformation among the locals, as well as potential indirect security threats. Without the support and guidance of trusted community figures like the Wakil Guzar and elders, these campaigns could have encountered major obstacles, putting both health workers and the success of the mission in jeopardy. Their presence was crucial in building trust, reducing risks, and ensuring that the life-saving vaccines reached every child in need
In this project, I had the opportunity to interact directly with families and children. The sweet laughter of the children after receiving the vaccine and the satisfaction of the families that they can protect their child from a deadly and crippling disease made me realize more the importance of this kind of humanitarian activities. Raising awareness and ensuring the future health of future generations was one of the most important achievements of this campaign, which gave me a deeper sense of social responsibility.
My Message to the International Community and Human Rights Organizations
my background includes professional contributions to renowned organizations such as UNODC in Herat. However, I now face significant challenges in my life and the lives of my family. The fall of Herat, security threats from the Taliban, my detention and trial, and forced migration are just part of the difficulties I have endured. These experiences, though difficult, reflect the harsh realities that many in our region face.
Today, my family and I live under the uncertainty of temporary green residency permits, with an unclear future ahead. The looming threat of being forced to return to Afghanistan—a country that is neither safe nor offers any security for our lives—constantly weighs on our hearts and minds. I am striving to secure safety, stability, and a brighter future for my wife and daughters—a future where we can live in peace and make a positive contribution to the global community.
I appeal to the international community and human rights organizations to view my case and that of my family as a genuine and human one. We are in need of support and solidarity to rebuild our lives and achieve a secure future. I hope our voice will be heard, and that this effort will lead to a positive outcome
Risk of deportation from Iran
All the green papers of temporary residence of Afghan nationals in Iran have been revoked, and according to the instructions of the Iranian immigration authorities, this group must return to Afghanistan.
My family and I are at risk of forced deportation
Don’t let us get fired
13Apr2025