It is not easy to be a Conservative these days, as a British migrant/refugee sur-place, and a specialist family and immigration/asylum lawyer, I have heard the public outcry for less immigration and fewer asylum seekers, which demonstrates there is perhaps a sector in our society who have been neglected and feel left behind.
So, why did I become a Conservative and remain a Conservative?
When I chose my political affiliation in 2014, I could relate to Conservative values such as small government, personal responsibility, access to opportunity for all, education, family values, tradition, the rule of law, enterprise, and democracy.
As someone whose family was persecuted by the Islamic Regime of Iran and someone who was not a Muslim in an Islamic country, I knew very well what could happen to individuals and businesses when the State becomes too powerful. I did not want that for the country which I have now been calling home for years, the UK. I also admired the British culture and its values, which I could see had roots in Christianity.
Therefore, I believe these should be preserved rather than annihilated through globalism and multiculturalism. Yes, a celebration of cultures is essential, and the Metropolitan feel of London is fantastic; however, Britain can celebrate and must defend its long-held values, such as tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs, mutual respect, individual liberty, the rule of law and above all, democracy. These can all be defended through the Conservative values we hold dear.
Conservatism is also concerned with strong borders and security for this country in a world where Russia, China and Iran are becoming more and more dangerous and sophisticated in their attacks. In the past, the Russian Oligarchs or IRGC leaders with wealth could have easily migrated to the UK legally through investing funds of at least £1m, which for many of them was not much; the previous Conservative governments stopped that route and rightly so. Today, we need to ensure those who threaten our national security do not find routes to settle in the UK, whether legally or illegally.
Therefore, Conservatism still has much to offer, as mentioned above, albeit the Conservative Party and some of its leaders may have sometimes let down its members and the public. Like all humans, we all make mistakes, learn from them, and move on. What is important is that we remain true to our core values, be honest with the public when we are strong or weak, and have a clear vision and roadmap for a more prosperous and just country where everyone can have the opportunity to reach their full potential, and nobody is left behind; perhaps then we can rebuild trust with the people whom we want to serve.
- Attieh Fard
