Our Mission
ORAM protects and empowers LGBTIQ asylum seekers and refugees globally, creating sustainability and systemic change.
The Issue
In many countries around the world, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex and queer (LGBTIQ) individuals face severe discrimination and violence due to their sexual orientation and/or gender identity.
The Current Situation
In approximately 70 countries, consensual same-sex relationships are criminalized, exposing millions of individuals to the risk of arrest, prosecution and imprisonment – and even, in at least six countries, the death penalty.
The Reality
Even in countries where homosexuality has been decriminalized, LGBTIQ people still face stigma and persecution. Many countries do not have specific laws targeting LGBTIQ individuals; however, they are often unwilling to protect LGBTIQ citizens whose human rights are being abused.
A Marginalized Group
The persecution LGBTIQ individuals face can come from many different actors, including the state, community or family. Many LGBTIQ individuals often have no other choice but to flee their countries of origin in search for a safer and better life.