Author Who Posed As A Refugee Shares Insights Into His Risky Journey

Matthew Aikins, a Canadian war journalist, shares his experience of posing as a refugee to help his friend Omar flee Afghanistan. His memoir, 'The Nakeds Don't Fear the Water,' chronicles their perilous journey from Kabul to Europe. Aikins discusses the dangers faced, the role of smugglers, and the impact of border controls. He also reflects on the current state of Afghanistan, emphasizing the need for global support for Afghan refugees. Aikins plans to return to Afghanistan to continue his reporting.

What motivated Matthew Aikins to pose as a refugee?

• To help his friend Omar escape Afghanistan

• To avoid military service

• To experience the refugee journey firsthand

• To write a novel about refugees

What was one of the major challenges faced during the journey from Turkey to Greece?

• Lack of food and water

• Being crammed into a van with too many people

• Language barriers with smugglers

• Getting lost in the mountains

Why do many refugees rely on smugglers to escape their countries?

• Refugees prefer to travel in groups

• Refugees are not allowed to travel legally

• Smugglers offer free services

• Smugglers provide safe and legal travel options

How do stricter border controls affect the smuggling industry?

• They decrease the number of smugglers

• They increase profits for smugglers

• They make smuggling less common

• They eliminate the need for smugglers

What is one of the consequences of cutting off aid to Afghanistan?

• A non-functioning government

• Increased government stability

• Improved economic conditions

• Decreased migration rates

What has been a survival strategy for Afghans over the past 40 years?

• Relying on international aid

• Building stronger communities

• Investing in local businesses

• Migrating to other countries

What are Matthew Aikins' future plans regarding Afghanistan?

• To retire from journalism

• To write a novel about his experiences

• To return to Afghanistan for further reporting

• To start a refugee aid organization