Unsafe Haven: The Security Challenges Facing Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Asylum Seekers and Refugees in Turkey

Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) individuals are among the most vulnerable asylum seekers and refugees in Turkey today. Having escaped persecution in their countries of origin, they arrive in Turkey to confront significant new challenges to their safety, security and protection.
This report is based on in-depth interviews with 46 LGBT asylum seekers and refugees living in Turkey, most of whom are Iranian. Their testimonials shed light on serious gaps in their protection, including violent harassment from local community members and other refugees, a lack of sufficient police protection, identity-based barriers to housing, employment, social services and education, and invasive questioning during asylum procedures.  The report also sets out specific, practical recommendations to stakeholders to ensure that Turkey's LGBT asylum seekers and refugees are safeguarded from violence and harassment and provided equal access to their social and economic rights.

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