Drawn to Leave

‘Daniel, they are not going to leave us alone – there is always going to be something that they will find to cause us trouble. This harassment is not going to stop,’ said Mum. ‘What kind of future is there for us here? We have to get out of here somehow.’
The end of World War II offered hope to millions of people across Europe that they would now be able to live in peace and freedom. However this hope was shortlived in Yugoslavia, which became increasingly authoritarian under the rule of Marshal Josip Tito. For people like my parents, who wanted the best life for their children, the only real option was to try and leave – despite the fact that leaving was no longer allowed.
Drawn to Leave tells the story of my family’s attempts to escape our homeland in search of a better life. It’s the story of my parents’ incredible strength, courage and determination to find a way out.