Human rights activist Wanjira Wanjiru has voiced her disappointment after being denied a UK visit visa, calling for systemic reforms in the visa approval process.
Wanjiru was invited to attend a program hosted by Al Jazeera but was unable to travel due to the UK embassy’s decision to reject her application.
In a statement, Wanjiru criticized the opaque and often arbitrary nature of visa refusals, particularly for individuals from African and Global South countries.
She argued that such refusals are not just individual setbacks but reflect broader systemic discrimination that limits opportunities for engagement on global platforms.
“Visa refusals should be challenged systemically,” she said, highlighting the need for transparency and fairness in the process.
The UK embassy cited various reasons for the rejection, though specific details remain unclear.
Common grounds for visa denials often include insufficient financial evidence, doubts about the applicant’s intent to return, or perceived security concerns.
However, Wanjiru and other activists believe that such justifications disproportionately affect professionals, scholars, and activists from Africa, reinforcing exclusionary policies.
Her case is not an isolated incident. Many African professionals and human rights defenders have reported similar experiences, raising concerns about unequal access to global dialogues.
Critics argue that visa policies undermine diversity in international discussions, preventing voices from marginalized communities from being heard.
Wanjiru’s call for systemic challenges to visa refusals aligns with ongoing advocacy for fairer immigration policies.
Activists suggest reforms such as clearer visa guidelines, independent appeals mechanisms, and greater accountability in decision-making.
As the debate continues, Wanjiru’s case serves as another reminder of the urgent need to address visa discrimination on a structural level.
By Nairobi