Finding Safety: How One Afghan Teen Escaped Exploitation and Found Support in Serbia

After two years of hardship and exploitation, 17-year-old Yusuf arrived in Serbia exhausted and unsure of his next steps. With support from InfoPark, CWS ‘s local partner, he found safety and a path forward. 

A Journey Marked by Fear and Uncertainty 

Yusuf*, a 17-year-old from Afghanistan, arrived in northern Serbia in late 2025 after a harrowing two-year journey. Following the Taliban’s rise to power, life in Afghanistan became unbearable. He first fled to Türkiye, where he worked in a factory, and later decided to continue traveling—without a clear destination, but with hope for something better. 

His first attempt to cross the Türkiye-Bulgaria border was traumatic. Smugglers rushed the group across a razor-wire fence using a ladder and blanket, shouting commands as they moved. Yusuf described the experience as feeling “out of his body.” It was his first direct encounter with smugglers, and he quickly learned that disobedience could mean being left alone in the forest. 

Harsh Conditions and Constant Risk 

The journey to Serbia took five days, with little food and constant fear. Near the border, Bulgarian police intercepted the group—without the smugglers—and took them to a reception center. After collecting their information, money and some documents, the group was returned to the Turkish border. With no authorities present, they made their way to a nearby town where smugglers were waiting. 

In a second attempt, Yusuf and 17 others traveled in a van with the seats removed, keeping their heads down to avoid detection. Near Belgrade, the group was split into smaller units. Yusuf ended up in a squat with a few others, where conditions were dire: sleeping outdoors, no beds or bathing for six days, limited food and repeated failed attempts to cross northern Serbia. 

A Turning Point in Belgrade 

During regular outreach, InfoPark’s mobile team identified Yusuf and conducted a thorough protection interview, recognizing his fragile psychological and physical state. The team offered him and his peers accommodation in a state-run center—a surprise, as they had been told smugglers charged 300 euros for such access. 

Yusuf was also given detailed information about available services, legal options regardless of status, the asylum process and integration opportunities for unaccompanied minors. Grateful and relieved, he accepted the referral to a minors’ accommodation center managed by the Commissariat for Refugees and Migration. 

The Power of Information and Support 

Thanks to accurate information and direct support from InfoPark, Yusuf was able to make informed decisions about his future. With a safe place to stay and access to essential services, he could begin to recover and plan his next steps. His story shows how reliable information and compassionate outreach can protect vulnerable minors and counter the harmful influence of smugglers. 

*For the protection of the individual mentioned in this story, a pseudonym has been used. 

In partnership with InfoPark, CWS provides emergency aid—including food vouchers, hygiene kits and medical supplies—to refugees and migrants in Serbia, while also offering short-term shelter, mental health support and safe spaces for those most at risk. 

This project is possible thanks to the generosity of UMCOR. To learn more about our work in Eastern Europe, click here. 

A Step Forward: One Young Man’s Journey Through the Balkans

After weeks of walking from Türkiye to Serbia, 21-year-old Farid arrived exhausted and injured—but determined to reach safety. With support from InfoPark, CWS’s local partner, he received critical aid that helped him continue his journey with dignity. 

A Long Road from Afghanistan 

Farid*, a 21-year-old from Afghanistan, arrived in Serbia in June 2025 after nearly a month of travel on foot. He had crossed from Türkiye through Bulgaria with a group of ten compatriots, hoping to reach Norway, where he has relatives. His journey was marked by hardship, resilience and a quiet determination to find safety. 

Farid grew up in a poor household. His father died when he was very young, and though his extended family offered some support, resources were scarce. Three years ago, Farid left Afghanistan for Türkiye via Iran, working in a junkyard and sending money home. Eventually, he and a few friends decided to attempt the Balkan route on foot, relying on GPS and advice from others to avoid smugglers, and they faced strenuous walking, poor hygiene and injuries along the way. 

A Moment of Relief in Obrenovac 

By the time Farid reached Serbia, his shoes were completely worn through, and he had no money to replace them. During a routine outreach visit, InfoPark’s mobile team identified him and conducted a protection interview. They immediately prioritized his urgent needs, offering psychosocial support, non-food items and medical care. 

Fortunately, the outreach team had his shoe size available in their car. The simple act of receiving new shoes lifted Farid’s spirits. His injuries were treated, and he received supplies for continued care. Despite receiving an offer for accommodations at the reception center, Farid declined, choosing instead to continue toward the Bosnia and Herzegovina border that evening—still focused on reaching his destination. 

Filling the Gaps Along the Balkan Route 

In partnership with CWS, InfoPark provides essential support to people on the move—many of whom remain invisible to formal systems. From food vouchers and hygiene kits to medical supplies and legal aid, these services are often the only lifeline for migrants and refugees navigating the Balkan route. 

For Farid and countless others, even small interventions—like a pair of shoes—can make a profound difference in their safety, health and dignity. 

*For the protection of the individual mentioned in this story, a pseudonym has been used. 

In partnership with InfoPark, CWS provides emergency aid—including food vouchers, hygiene kits and medical supplies—to refugees and migrants in Serbia, while also offering short-term shelter, mental health support and safe spaces for those most at risk. 

This project is possible thanks to the generosity of UMCOR. To learn more about our work in Eastern Europe, click here. 

From Displacement to Independence: Twin Sisters Rebuild Their Lives in Serbia

After fleeing war in Ukraine, Tetiana and Valeriia found safety and purpose in Serbia. With creativity, determination and support from CWS and local partners, they’ve transitioned from asylum center residents to independent artisans building a new life. 

A Journey Toward Safety and Stability 

Tetiana and Valeriia, twin sisters from Ukraine, arrived in Serbia in June 2022 after leaving their homes in search of safety from the war. From the beginning, they demonstrated remarkable resilience, independence and creativity as they began rebuilding their lives far from home. 

While living at the Asylum Center in Vranje, the sisters continued their remote work and quickly became active in community life. They discovered a passion for handcrafted jewelry and decorative items, using Czech and Japanese beads to create intricate necklaces, bracelets and ornaments. Their artistry soon reached beyond the center walls, as they showcased their work at local fairs—sharing their culture and connecting with the broader community. 

Finding Purpose Through Craft and Community 

With support from the Belgrade Center for Human Rights, CWS’s local partner, Tetiana and Valeriia received short-term housing assistance while searching for an apartment. Inspired by their close bond with Elvira’s family—fellow asylum seekers—they chose the city as their new home. 

The sisters are now living independently and have settled into their new home. Since moving, they have continued to expand their new lives: continuing with their online work, enrolling in a language school and learning Serbian.  

Their journey from displacement to independence reflects the power of community, creativity and determination—and the promise of a future they are shaping together. 

In partnership with the Belgrade Center for Human Rights, CWS provides legal aid, case management and protection services to help refugees and migrants in Serbia access their rights, navigate asylum processes and rebuild their lives with dignity. 

This project is possible thanks to the generosity of UMCOR. To learn more about our work in Eastern Europe, click here.