Exploiting Asylum Seekers: The Church of Scientology’s Controversial Volunteering Scheme in Ireland
Anas Ishtiah, a Jordanian-Palestinian, had never heard of the Church of Scientology until June. While staying at the Crooksling tented accommodation centre in Dublin, he was approached by a Nigerian resident. The Nigerian invited Ishtiah to volunteer with Scientology, claiming it would help him with his refugee status and job interviews.
Ishtiah created a WhatsApp group for Arabic-speaking asylum seekers at Crooksling. Up to 200 asylum seekers joined. Many did not speak English, so Ishtiah translated for them, repeating what he had been told about the supposed benefits of volunteering for Scientology.
For two months, Ishtiah organized groups of 30 to 50 men to distribute anti-drug leaflets in Dublin. Participants received certificates, believing these documents would support their asylum applications.
Ishtiah noticed that some participants treated the task lightly, tossing leaflets in the bin after receiving their certificates. However, others engaged seriously, attending a “human rights open day” at the Scientology church and receiving additional certificates.
His discomfort grew when church members asked him to teach English without pay and offered housing in return. One day, he was asked to clean the church for eight hours without food. He expressed concern, stating, “I don’t need that.”
Critics highlight Scientology’s attempts to integrate into Irish society through front groups. They accuse the organization of trying to mask its controversial image. An independent councillor noted their efforts to join drug and alcohol task forces were blocked by concerns about harmful practices.
What challenges do asylum seekers face when navigating faith-based organizations for support?
Headline: “Navigating Asylum and Beliefs: An Insightful Interview with Anas Ishtiah on His Experience at the Church of Scientology”
By [Your Name]
News Editor, newsdirectory3.com
In a surprising turn of events, former volunteer Anas Ishtiah found himself at the intersection of faith, uncertainty, and the pursuit of asylum. Anas, a Jordanian-Palestinian who recently got involved with the Church of Scientology while staying temporarily in Dublin’s Crooksling accommodation centre, shares his story and insights.
Interviewer: Anas, thank you for speaking with us today. First, could you tell us about your initial encounter with the Church of Scientology?
Anas Ishtiah: Thank you for having me. When I arrived at Crooksling in June, I hadn’t heard of Scientology before. It was a Nigerian resident who approached me and invited me to volunteer with the organization. He assured me that this involvement could help improve my chances for asylum and assist with job interviews.
Interviewer: That sounds intriguing. What motivated you to get involved and create a WhatsApp group for Arabic speakers?
Anas Ishtiah: Many asylum seekers at Crooksling, like me, faced language barriers. I wanted to ensure they had access to information and support. The idea of connecting with others who could potentially benefit from this volunteering opportunity seemed worth exploring. So, I set up a WhatsApp group, and quickly, around 200 people joined.
Interviewer: What were some of the activities you organized for these volunteers?
Anas Ishtiah: We worked mostly on distributing anti-drug leaflets across Dublin. It felt meaningful, and I believed it could make an impact. I organized groups of 30 to 50 volunteers for this purpose. Participants received certificates, and many believed that these documents would support their asylum applications, which was a significant motivator.
Interviewer: Did you notice any immediate benefits or changes for the participants in your group?
Anas Ishtiah: Initially, there was a sense of purpose among the participants. However, I did notice that some took the task lightly. Unfortunately, not everyone was committed, and there were occasions when people would toss the leaflets rather than distribute them genuinely. I think this reflects the complex realities asylum seekers face; some were more desperate than committed to the cause.
Interviewer: What about the promises made regarding asylum applications? Did you find that these certificates carried any weight?
Anas Ishtiah: That’s a difficult question. Although we were told that volunteering with Scientology could help us, especially with documentation, I have yet to see any tangible benefits or hear positive stories from anyone using the certificates in terms of their asylum applications. It raises questions about the motivations and credibility of such promises.
Interviewer: It must have been challenging to navigate these circumstances, especially dealing with hope and uncertainty. What are your thoughts on the role of organizations like Scientology in the lives of vulnerable asylum seekers?
Anas Ishtiah: It’s a double-edged sword. On one hand, they offer a community and some semblance of purpose which is especially vital for refugees who feel lost. On the other hand, it is imperative to ensure that they aren’t exploiting vulnerable populations or creating false hopes. Transparency and genuine support should be at the core of any such initiative.
Interviewer: What advice would you give to other asylum seekers who might find themselves in a similar position?
Anas Ishtiah: My advice would be to be cautious. Participate in opportunities that seem beneficial but always verify their legitimacy. Seek multiple opinions, and ensure that you have a well-rounded understanding before investing your time and hopes in any organization. It’s important to prioritize your well-being.
Interviewer: Thank you, Anas. Your insights are invaluable and shed light on a complex issue facing many asylum seekers today. We wish you the best in your future endeavors.
Anas Ishtiah: Thank you for having me. I hope my experiences can help others navigate a challenging journey.
As the conversation reveals, the intersection of faith, volunteering, and asylum is fraught with complexities. Anas’s story underscores the need for caution and community support as vulnerable populations seek stability in unfamiliar environments. Keep following newsdirectory3.com for more on this topic and other pressing issues affecting asylum seekers today.
While membership numbers for Scientology in Ireland are low—132 according to the 2022 census—many asylum seekers continue to volunteer. Endurance Osaretin, an asylum seeker, has volunteered for five months and leads leaflet drops weekly. He received a letter of appreciation from Scientology and paid €20 for a training course on working in the Irish labor market.
Osaretin believes volunteering helps him build connections and skills. Legal experts, however, state that Scientology certificates offer no real benefit for asylum applications. A member of the International Protection Appeals Tribunal pointed out such letters from community groups do not influence decisions.
Despite the decline of its membership, Scientology still engages asylum seekers in volunteer work. The church claims many asylum seekers seek to join its efforts voluntarily and appreciate participation recognition.
Anas Ishtiah stopped volunteering for Scientology after a friend’s advice. He felt exploited and plans to focus on obtaining asylum and finding paid work in Ireland. He concluded, “They wasted my time, wanting us to do everything for free.”