Emergency fundraiser for Mahdi!

Emergency Fundraiser for Mahdi!

#SaveMahdi

Mahdi is a young Saudi atheist living in South Korea who is in URGENT need of
help. Mahdi saved money to go to school in Japan, where he became an atheist in
2015.

He went to S. Korea because he has a strong affinity to Eastern Asian countries
and culture. He returned to Saudi Arabia after leaving Japan a few years later,
thinking that he could keep his non-belief to himself, but this did not work out.
Once in Saudi Arabia he had to flee abroad in fear of his life. He chose to claim
asylum in S. Korea since it was the fastest and easiest way out.

Unfortunately, when Mahdi first applied for asylum in S. Korea, he had no lawyer, no atheist organization to support him, no letters, nothing. He didn't know how the process works, and his application was denied, most probably because he
wasn't able to persuade officials that he is an atheist. He appealed the decision
but again with no lawyer and no support. His appeal was rejected in just
TWO days—appeals usually take several months for a decision.

Now Mahdi must retain a lawyer to start his 2nd and FINAL appeal, just under the wire from the expiration of his visitor's visa. Atheist Alliance International can help him now but, without a lawyer, his chances of success are close to zero.
He will be deported back to Saudi Arabia and be charged with being an atheist,
which carries the death penalty in that country.

He has almost used up his savings and living on the small amount remaining.
He cannot afford lawyer's fees. He's depressed and, at times, feels hopeless.
He's terrified of going back to Saudi Arabia. Mahdi has received death threats on Twitter. His father holds a high religious position in Saudi and is angry because he feels Mahdi has brought shame on the family.

Mahdi has applied for several jobs, but all have been denied due to not having
citizenship or a work visa. We need to raise $3,000 urgently to engage a lawyer
for Mahdi's final appeal. Obtaining asylum will save his life.  Please help.