More than 1.2 million people have already fled Ukraine as Russia’s invasion continues. The United Nations estimates the number of refugees could go as high as four million. As Ukrainians seek shelter in neighbouring countries and foreign nationals are moved out of Ukraine under diplomatic efforts, Middle Eastern and African migrants face increased racism and discrimination.
Poland has not allowed Africans and persons of colour to cross its borders and has been admitting Ukrainian citizens only.
Meanwhile, asylum seekers on the Polish-Belarusian border feel they have been left to die, stuck in the border zone without food and basic human amenities. Journalist Ako Mecid shines a spotlight on their plight.