In February 1992, the Slovenian authorities removed 25,000 individuals from the national registry, effectively rendering them illegal immigrants overnight. This administrative action highlights the vulnerability of personal status, as one's rights to employment, housing, and healthcare are entirely dependent on government records. The author recounts personal testimonies from those affected, illustrating the profound psychological and social impact of suddenly being declared non-existent by the state. By examining this historical event, the article warns against the potential dangers of modern political rhetoric surrounding mass deportation or remigration, suggesting that bureaucratic decisions can strip citizens of their legal standing without warning or recourse.
Source : The Guardian
Photo : The Guardian
