The Impact of Covid-19 on Displaced LGBTQI Persons: A Report with Four Recommendations for Policy Makers
This report offers a snapshot of the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on displaced LGBTQI+ individuals seeking resettlement, due to the closure of borders, pausing of resettlement acceptances, and travel between countries. It includes an analysis of current literature on COVID-19 responses, as well as interviews with human rights workers representing civil society organizations working at the frontline of the COVID-19 response. The report concludes with four policy recommendations including: 1) Uphold the right to asylum during COVID-19, 2) Resume the resettlement of LGBTQI refugees, 3) Release LGBTQI asylum seekers being held in detention centres, and 4) Increase resources dedicated to supporting LGBTQI refugees.