Queering Asylum in Europe: Legal and Social Experiences of Seeking International Protection on grounds of Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity

This two-volume open-access book explores the experiences of people claiming international protection in Europe based on their sexual orientation or gender identity (SOGI). It offers a comparative, interdisciplinary approach to examine the legal and social experiences of these individuals, providing recommendations for a fairer and more humane treatment of SOGI-related asylum claims. The book is of interest to researchers, policymakers, and practitioners in migration and refugee studies, law, and SOGI asylum.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 487 pages
Publication date: 01 September 2021
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This comprehensive two-volume open-access book delves into the profound and multifaceted experiences of individuals seeking international protection in Europe based on their sexual orientation or gender identity (SOGI). It offers a theoretically and empirically grounded portrayal of these individuals' lives, providing a comprehensive understanding of their challenges and struggles. Through a combined comparative, interdisciplinary (socio-legal), human rights, feminist, queer, and intersectional approach, the book explores not only the legal experiences of those claiming asylum on grounds of their SOGI but also their social experiences outside the asylum decision-making framework. The authors meticulously analyze how SOGI-related claims are adjudicated in various European frameworks (European Union, Council of Europe, Germany, Italy, and the UK), offering detailed recommendations to adequately address the intersectional experiences of individuals seeking asylum. This unique approach ensures that the book appeals to a wide range of audiences, including researchers in migration and refugee studies, law, and broader academic communities, as well as policy makers and practitioners in the field of SOGI asylum.

The first volume of the book focuses on the theoretical foundations of SOGI asylum, providing a comprehensive overview of the legal and policy frameworks that govern these claims. It explores the historical context, legal developments, and international human rights standards that underpin the protection of SOGI individuals. The authors examine the challenges faced by SOGI asylum seekers, including discrimination, violence, and marginalization, and argue for the need to establish a more inclusive and equitable asylum system.

The second volume of the book delves into the empirical evidence and case studies that shed light on the experiences of SOGI asylum seekers in Europe. It features in-depth interviews and narratives from individuals who have sought protection in various countries, providing a firsthand account of their struggles, resilience, and achievements. The book also highlights the role of advocacy organizations, legal professionals, and grassroots movements in supporting SOGI asylum seekers and advocating for their rights.

Overall, this two-volume open-access book is a groundbreaking contribution to the field of migration and refugee studies. It offers a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the experiences of SOGI asylum seekers, providing valuable insights for policymakers, practitioners, and researchers alike. By highlighting the intersectional nature of their experiences and advocating for a more inclusive and equitable asylum system, the book contributes to the ongoing efforts to promote the rights and dignity of all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

Weight: 430g
Dimension: 156 x 232 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030694432
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021