Malta is in constant efforts to promote equality and respect towards LGBTIQ persons in an intersectional manner. This includes LGBTIQ persons who whether due to their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and/or sex characteristics or other reasons seek asylum in Malta.
Given that most asylum seekers come from countries where being out as an LGBTIQ person may give rise to persecution we also wish to communicate that Malta is a safe place for LGBTIQ persons. The SOGIGESC Unit developed a welcome poster seeking to impart this simple message.
Another goal of the SOGIGESC Unit is to ensure that LGBTIQ asylum seekers and migrants are able to access information around LGBTIQ rights in a language they can understand.
For this purpose, in collaboration with UNHCR, the Unit has developed information leaflets in 6 different languages, these being English, French, Arabic, Somali, Tigrinya and Bangladeshi.
They provide asylum seekers and migrants in Malta with information on different equality laws and practices in Malta and information on where to access LGBTIQ-related services.
This initiative forms part of a wider campaign being implemented in collaboration with various national entities which also aims to build the capacity of those working with migrants in reception centers on how to better cater to the needs and well-being of LGBTIQ asylum seekers.
You must apply for asylum in the country where you are seeking protection. This often involves presenting your case to immigration authorities and proving that you have a legitimate fear of persecution. trap the cat