Jailed due to protest act – do I qualify for a refugee application in the US?
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Jailed due to protest act – do I qualify for a refugee application in the US?
I’ve been jailed in my home country Tunisia due to ‘drinking water’ publicly
during ramadan. Such an act is prohibited by law in Tunisia, yet I did it as a
form of protest to claim my very basic right as an atheist to eat and drink
anytime/anywhere without feeling like I’m committing a crime. Some people
have the luxury to do it discreetly, however for the non-muslim minority who
work 8 hours a day and can’t afford a discreet spot, being forced to fast
against their will is pretty much a form of torture.
I’ve been jailed for a couple days, and been warned as I got released that I
could face 3 months of prison if I repeat my act. There was no torture
involved horrible prison conditions aside, any chance I could qualify for a
refugee application in the US?
Best Regards,
-Firas
Asked on June 1, 2017 under Immigration Law, Alaska
Answers:
SB Member California Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 6 years ago | Contributor
That one act in and of itself is probably insufficient to warrant an asylum grant but it really depends on what else you have in your background that may be eligible for an asylum claim. It is best for you to consult with an immigration attorney to understand the process and go over your specific situation.
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