Ayaan Hirsi Magan Ali

I was surprised by the unfolding of the story surrounding Ms Hirsi Ali's refugee status in Holland. Much as i'm dismayed by the whole episode, i have to wonder whether the reaction of her political party (VVD) and most of the press is warranted.

During the early 20th century, many migrants to America, UK, Canada, would fabricate stories in order to gain admittance to safe, prosperous countries where they could be able to enjoy a better standard of life without fear or persecution.
The fact that Ms Ali qualified as a refugee under the convention in Nairobi, Kenya and was granted status there is irrelevant. She is a woman who has overcome overwhelming odds to ascend in to the Dutch political estanblishment.

Her valid criticisms of religious excesses have meant she lives under protection from armed guards round the clock. The fact that she is a woman, compounds the animosity and physical threats aimed at her. Good luck to her in her new career at the American enterprise institute( can't stand their politics), and long may she continue toi criticise superstition and its grip on vast tracts of the globe.