Northern Ireland: 1 in 4 LGBTQ+ asylum seekers experience sexual assault in asylum accommodation

A report by Rainbow Refugees NI and Law Centre NI published on Friday revealed that LGBTQ+ asylum seekers in Northern Ireland experience serious homophobic abuse in their asylum accommodation. The report, titled “We are getting hurt,” shows that 78 percent of the study’s participants experienced “homophobic abuse or violence in or around their asylum accommodation.”

According to Rainbow Refugees NI, LGBTQ+ asylum seekers have experienced homophobic abuse such as name-calling, severe bullying, harassment and physical and sexual violence. The report further found that while victims of homophobic abuse usually report to Migrant help, Mears or the police service, the reporting process did not lead to effective results for the majority. Additionally, the research showed that the chance of being relocated after experiencing abuse is low and is mostly possible with the interference of support organizations. Moreover, the report raised concerns over the high prevalence of self-harm and suicide among abuse victims.

The organizations provided key recommendations, such as that housing provider Mears designate housing units “for the exclusive use of LGBTQIA+ asylum seekers” to guarantee safe asylum accommodations. The report also suggested that homophobic abuse response should follow racial and domestic abuse policies and therefore provide victims access to expedited relocation policy as well as suicide prevention services.

Overall, the report highlighted that LGBTQ+ asylum seekers in the UK face constant abuse in their accommodation. Migration Justice Project at Law Centre NI member Liz Griffith stated:

LGBTQIA+ asylum seekers deserve the chance to rebuild their lives and feel safe in their own homes. We are optimistic that the recommendations in this report will bring about tangible and progressive change and we look forward to working collectively with Mears, Migrant Help, and others to ensure the safety and wellbeing of LGBTQIA+ asylum seekers who have sought sanctuary in Northern Ireland.

As Pride Month nears its end, the necessity to address the serious issues the LGBTQ+ community faces around the world remains urgent. A recent report published by Ugandan LGBTQ+ advocacy organization Convening for Equality reported human rights violations against LGBTQ+ people following the passage of the country’s Anti-Homosexuality Act (AHA) 2023. Earlier in June, South Korean authorities denied the 25th Seoul Queer Culture Festival from using the Seoul Plaza, prompting discrimination accusations from the event committee.

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