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Comment by IliaLitviak | Hacker News Reader

A more than valid question! It's the only way I could figure out how to economically convey "I am a Russian who decided to leave Russia to not be complicit and because my history of protests and support for opposition makes it scary to stay, while I completely understand the level of privilege I'm enjoying and can't call myself a refugee even remotely". Even though I always wanted to live abroad, I didn't decide when and how exactly I would emigrate, hence "forced".

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You sound like a candidate for asylum? Despite the administration policy, asylum law is still on the books. Might be good to get an application in and cross your fingers for a subsequently more friendly admin.

Based on Ilia's post on the "Who's wants to be hired?" thread, he's currently based in Portugal.

I am, yes. As I said, I am aware of my privilege and even though I might technically theoretically be a valid asylum case It would feel like abusing a system designed to help people in actual dire need. So even though I am more than willing to relocate, I would definitely NOT do that through the asylum process.

Ilia, first of all, from what you've written today, you come across to me like a decent principled person and that's rare nowadays. I admire that.

That said, if I may offer you my $0.02: systems exist for us to fallback on. You might know yourself and your situation best but sometimes the best way to not drown is to take a lifeline even if you know how to swim. I completely understand not wanting to take-up the space of someone in greater need but let the bureaucrats make that call.

I'm not very smooth with words but what I'm saying is, I encourage you to apply for social support systems nonetheless. That's not just specifically the asylum process but I'm sure there are other programs in the EU (for instance) where you might qualify. It wouldn't hurt your situation, let the bureaucrats make the call, I don't think anyone will take it against you.

Best of luck.

>> like a decent principled person and that's rare nowadays. I admire that

They could be a russian spy as well. You never know if he has an assignment from fsb/gru.

"I have to leave my home country because my political stances makes it unsafe for me to stay" is like the textbook definition of political refugee.

Huh! Points to you for clarity of understanding. Wish I was an employer able to take note of this :) for now I would NOT take the 'apply for asylum' suggestion, not until we clean house. Could be the dumbest thing you could do right now.

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