On 3 December, an interactive discussion focusing on knowledge exchange between the local LGBTIQ+ community and LGBTIQ+ refugees and asylum-seekers, was organized by UNHCR and local experts. The aim of this event was to raise awareness and understanding of local community members on the challenges faced by LGBTIQ+ refugees and asylum-seekers.
Moreover, the event was organized to inform LGBTIQ+ migrants, asylum-seekers and refugees about resources, support programmes, and mechanisms available to LGBTIQ+ persons in BiH.
This discussion brought together activists who are engaged in issues related to providing support to LGBTIQ+ refugees and asylum-seekers in Bosnia and Herzegovina and LGBTIQ+ asylum-seekers.
Two LGBTIQ+ refugees, who are currently in Sarajevo, shared their experiences of living in countries of criminalized homosexuality and challenges they encountered during their journey.
“It is a great pleasure to be here with you and to share my experiences. We do not often have the opportunity to speak openly, given that we are in spaces, surrounded by people we often do not trust. This is a good change.” Said one of the LGBTIQ+ refugees present.
LGBTIQ+ refugees and asylum-seekers face many challenges, which puts them at a great disadvantage. They are often in need of psychosocial support as a result of the stigmatization and other traumas experienced as a result of their sexual orientation and gender identities, including sexual or gender-based violence (SGBV), in their country of origin, in countries of transit and in BiH. This is not only experienced by LGBTIQ+ people on the move, but also by the local LGBTIQ+ community. Hence why it is important that there is a platform where they can exchange knowledge and inform about existing support mechanisms.
What consequently affected the participants of the panel and the public, is that a common narrative was created that enabled the exchange of knowledge and ideas, as well as the possibility of advancement and networking. Audiences and attendees had a chance to become ambassadors of change and to be familiar with the solidarity network that can be used for situations when potential referrals are needed for LGBTIQ+ refugees and asylum-seekers.
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