From Persecution to Resilience: The Story of the Hazara in Afghanistan and Iran

By Bobby Darvish, Iranian-American Ex-Muslim, Former Vegan, Former Democrat, Former Socialist, Former CAIR-Columbus Executive Director, Former Muslim Forum of Utah President, Former Pagan, Christian Conservative LDS Priest

The Hazara people have long faced systemic oppression in both Afghanistan and Iran, stemming from a combination of ethnic prejudice, religious discrimination, and political marginalization. For centuries, their unique culture, language, and adherence to Shia Islam have made them targets in regions dominated by other ethnic groups and religious sects. As an Iranian-American and a former member of several cultural and religious communities, I find it deeply troubling to witness how this historically resilient people have been continuously denied basic rights, dignity, and security.

In Afghanistan, the Hazara have suffered through waves of violence, from mass killings during the reign of Abdur Rahman Khan in the late 19th century to recent attacks by extremist groups like the Taliban and ISIS-K. These groups have frequently targeted Hazara communities, destroying villages, massacring civilians, and turning schools, mosques, and public spaces into sites of tragedy. Despite being a substantial minority, the Hazara are often excluded from political representation and are disproportionately affected by poverty and unemployment.

In Iran, where many Hazara sought refuge, the discrimination is more subtle but equally insidious. Despite sharing the Shia faith with the majority of Iranians, Hazara refugees and migrant workers are often treated as second-class citizens. They are frequently subjected to labor exploitation, denied proper documentation, and have limited access to education and healthcare. Racist attitudes toward their distinct Mongoloid features and their Afghan origins further exacerbate their marginalization. Even the Iranian regime, which presents itself as a defender of Shia Muslims worldwide, has failed to offer meaningful support to Hazara communities, instead using them as pawns in regional conflicts.

The plight of the Hazara is not just an Afghan or Iranian issue; it is a human rights crisis that demands international attention and action. Humanitarian organizations, governments, and religious communities must come together to address the root causes of this persecution. As someone who has left behind oppressive ideologies and embraced a faith grounded in love, justice, and service, I believe it is our moral obligation to stand in solidarity with the Hazara, amplifying their voices and working toward a future where they can live without fear of persecution.

Citations:

1. Emadi, Hafizullah. State, Revolution, and Superpowers in Afghanistan. Praeger Publishers, 1990.
2. Amnesty International. “Afghanistan: Hazara Community Under Attack.” Amnesty.org, 2020.
3. Human Rights Watch. “Afghanistan’s Hazara Community Faces Targeted Killings.” HRW.org, 2021.
4. Hanks, Reuel R. Central Asia: A Global Studies Handbook. ABC-CLIO, 2005.
5. United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). “Iran: Issues Faced by Afghan Refugees and Asylum Seekers.” UNHCR.org, 2017.