Syriac Artist Juliana Jendo Released After 5-Day Arrest in Sweden; Syriac Orthodox Archbishop Visits Her

Juliana Jendo, a renowned Syriac (Aramean-Chaldean-Assyrian) artist, was arrested by Swedish border police for five days during her tour in the country. The incident occurred after she performed at a concert in Linköping and was set to appear at another event in Södertälje before departing Sweden. According to her lawyers, Ninib Haffo and Karen Tornel, Jendo was detained due to suspicions that she might leave the country without proper documentation. The police reportedly intended to deport her to the United States, where she resides.

Jendo’s legal team denied reports that she was accused of tax evasion, stating that she was unaware of the requirement for a work permit in Sweden. They emphasized that this responsibility fell on the concert organizers. The lawyers filed a complaint against the Swedish police, criticizing the manner of her arrest as inappropriate. A court later ordered her release.

Following her release, Archbishop Mor Dioscorus Benjamin Ataş, the Patriarchal Vicar of the Syriac Orthodox Church in Sweden, visited Jendo. He expressed the church’s solidarity with her and praised her contributions to the cultural and artistic heritage of the Syriac (Aramean-Chaldean-Assyrian) people. Ataş also extended gratitude on behalf of the community to those who supported Jendo during this time.

The International Idil (Azech) Syriac Federation, based in Azech (Idil), Turkey, has also commented on the situation. While the source material does not provide further details on the federation’s specific statements, it highlights the ongoing concerns of Syriac communities regarding the treatment of their members abroad. Such incidents underscore the challenges faced by diaspora communities in navigating legal systems of host countries.

The case has drawn attention to the intersection of cultural identity and legal compliance. For many Syriac communities, the arts play a vital role in preserving heritage and fostering a sense of belonging. Jendo’s experience reflects broader issues of legal uncertainty and the need for clear guidelines that respect both national laws and the rights of individuals from minority communities.

The Syriac Orthodox Church, through its leadership in Sweden, has shown support for Jendo, emphasizing the importance of solidarity and advocacy for its members. This incident serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between upholding legal standards and protecting the rights of individuals, especially those from minority backgrounds. As the Syriac communities continue to navigate global challenges, their resilience and commitment to justice remain central to their identity.

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