Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Two Iranian Players Naturalised as Australian Citizens After Anthem Protest

Naturalisation gives the women permanent protection under Australia's humanitarian visa pathway.

Overview

  • The players, Atefeh Ramezanisadeh and Fatemeh Pasandideh, refused to sing Iran’s national anthem at the AFC Women's Asian Cup in March and faced denunciation in Iranian state media.
  • Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke offered humanitarian visas to members of the Iranian delegation after the tournament and the two players accepted protection in Australia.
  • Five other squad members later withdrew their claims and returned to Iran after reported threats to family members linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.
  • On Wednesday the two players were formally naturalised at a Brisbane ceremony where they received citizenship certificates and posed for photos with Tony Burke.
  • Local clubs and the Iranian-Australian community have supported their settlement and the players have been invited to train with Brisbane Roar as they focus on safety, health, and rebuilding their lives.