Yemenis in the Netherlands protest against measures to return them to the country under the control of militias

Members of the Yemeni community in the Netherlands organized a protest today, Sunday, to express their rejection of the Dutch government’s classification of Yemen as a “safe country” while militias have been dividing the country for years since the outbreak of war in Yemen.

The Yemenis participating in the demonstration are demanding a review of this decision, which they see as a violation of their rights as refugees from a country witnessing an ongoing conflict and the spread of militias that impose de facto authority in most Yemeni governorates.

The protesters raised banners for the victims of the violations and crimes committed by the militias, to draw the attention of the international community to the humanitarian tragedy experienced by the Yemeni people and the danger that threatens their children if they are returned to Yemen under the control of these militias.

Yemeni refugees in the Netherlands fear the Dutch decision, which could be followed by measures to return them to the country.

Hundreds of Yemeni refugees in the Netherlands protested against the Dutch government's classification of Yemen as a "safe country" and chanted slogans confirming that the country is not safe due to the presence of the terrorist Houthi militia. pic.twitter.com/NhtUOGWj4d

— Yemen Youth TV Channel (@TVyemenshabab) September 15, 2024

Community activist Bassam Al-Eryani said, “The serious violations committed by the Houthi militias against civilians, including killing, torture, random arrests, and forced displacement of thousands of families, without discrimination between men, women, or children.”

He added, "Isn't the series of violations against employees of international and humanitarian organizations, the illegal arrests, and the intimidation of humanitarian workers enough for the world to take serious steps to end the militia's control over the lives of Yemenis?"

The protesters pointed out - in a statement - that "Yemen is facing the largest humanitarian crisis in the world, with millions living below the poverty line and children suffering from severe malnutrition, in addition to the collapse of the health system and the lack of basic services."

The participants called on the international community to intervene immediately to save Yemen, open safe humanitarian corridors to deliver food and medical aid without the interference of the militias, and hold accountable all those who committed crimes against the Yemeni people.

They also called for an immediate end to the war and the start of a real political process that would ensure peace and justice for the Yemeni people. The statement said, "The Yemeni people have the right to a dignified life and a bright future," stressing that they will not remain silent and will continue to raise their voices until Yemen enjoys peace and stability.