#17 UNHCR

All over the world, LGBTIQ+ people unfortunately still experience human rights violations. LGBTIQ+ refugees are often expected to be able to return to countries where it is not safe for them. In only 11 countries LGBTIQ+ rights are included in the constitution. Many see no option but to flee their home. No one should be forced to flee because of who they are or who they love.

But there is work to be done in the Netherlands as well. Many LGBTIQ+ refugees are harassed, threatened or isolated. It is therefore important to let them know that the Netherlands supports them. You are here – in the Netherlands – free to be who you are.

UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, supports LGBTIQ+ asylum seekers and refugees during Pride and every day of the year.

We offer protection to people forced to flee and seek solutions for them. UNHCR recognizes people who have to flee because of their sexual orientation and/or gender identity as refugees. UNHCR offers them shelter in safe houses and psychosocial and medical care. We also resettle LGBTIQ+ refugees because of their vulnerability in the country of asylum.

In the Netherlands we offer protection and create awareness around this subject to increase support for LGBTIQ+ refugees. UNHCR the Netherlands provides legal support for asylum applications. We lobby for better LGBTIQ+ policies and for fair procedures in line with international treaties.

During Pride, we want to let LGBTQ+ refugees know that we hear them, see them, admire them for their strength and that we are here for them, every single day. A message that is incredibly important. Too often refugees are still seen as needy or helpless. But we are proud of their strength, courage, talent and resilience and that is the message we want to convey. We want to celebrate their strength and courage.

We want to let all LGBTQ + asylum seekers and refugees know that they have a home in the Netherlands, that they belong and that they are an important part of our society.