Literature (non-fiction): The People Smuggler by Robin de Crespigny – Penguin Australia, May 2012
Drawn from three years of interviews, The People Smuggler recounts the life of Ali Al Jenabi, one of the first men to be tried in Australia for people smuggling offences.
About this winner
- Year: 2012
- Level: Winner
- Award category: Media award
About the 2012 nomination
Drawn from three years of interviews, The People Smuggler recounts the life of Ali Al Jenabi, one of the first men to be tried in Australia for people smuggling offences. The book puts a human face on those involved in the boat voyages, revealing a harrowing picture of a man who, by turning to people smugglers, sought to escape severe repression in Iraq and seek safety for his mother and six younger brothers and sisters, only to become a ‘people smuggler' himself. The book exposes many anti-refugee myths common in Australia and points to the actions of governments, police and intelligence agencies in encouraging anti-refugee sentiment.
About the Human Rights Awards
The Australian Human Rights Awards is an inspirational showcase of the best in all of us. The Awards honour and celebrate diverse human rights heroes and significant achievements in protecting and promoting human rights in Australia.