Border Biases: Exposing Discrimination in International Travel

PositiveMinds | Positive Stories | Edition 046

A scene at an airport immigration counter, created using DALL-E by OpenAI.

A month and half ago, I shared a disheartening experience of apparent discrimination and racism at Bangkok airport in my Positive Minds | Positive Stories | Edition 043.

More recently, on 9 January 2024, I found myself at Istanbul airport. After an endless wait in the queue, I observed a noticeable difference in treatment. The immigration officer extended warm smiles and prompt service to Western travellers, many of whom received visas on arrival. In stark contrast, I had endured a lengthy and rigorous process in Nairobi to secure my visa, submitting an exhaustive list of documents.

When it was finally my turn, the officer's demeanour changed. The look she gave me as she held my passport was one of deep suspicion. She meticulously examined my visa, made a few phone calls, and, at one point, a colleague even took my passport away for further scrutiny.

After about half an hour, following more inspections and procedures, I was allowed to pass. The officer's reluctance and scepticism were palpable as she returned my passport.

The ordeal continued at baggage claim, where my luggage was missing. It turned out to be in the 'unclaimed items' area, having circled countless times the conveyor belt in my absence. Just as I thought my challenges were over, I was singled out for a 'random check' by a customs agent. This invasive search felt far from random, a sentiment all too familiar to me.

These experiences are not just mere travel inconveniences; they represent a deeper issue of racism and discrimination that persists in various forms. Despite my mental preparation for such encounters, acceptance is not an option. I consistently address these issues with the officials, advocating respectfully but firmly for fair treatment.

I believe that change begins with raising our voices against these injustices. Racism and discrimination are not inherent to a country but are the actions of individuals. Our fight, therefore, is not against a nation but against the mindset of those who judge based on skin colour or origin.

Sharing our experiences and standing together can transform individual voices into a powerful collective call for change.