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

This report was first released in 2009 and then revised and updated in 2011. In addition to being based on the original 46 in-depth interviews conducted for the 2009 edition of this report, the findings and conclusions in this updated version are based on information provided by 62 LGBT refugees represented jointly by HCA and ORAM since that time. Most LGBT refugees in Turkey come from Iran. In addition to Iranians, LGBT refugees from Iraq, Afghanistan, Palestine, and Sudan have also sought protection in Turkey.  LGBT people are among the most marginalized and vulnerable asylum seekers and refugees in Turkey today. The protections extended by the government of Turkey and UNHCR allow these individuals to escape the severe mistreatment, torture and death they faced in their countries of origin. However, their physical survival is often mired in new dangers and deprivations in often-hostile environments in Turkey.