Protection for LGBT people
In many countries lesbian, gay, bi and trans people face execution, torture, rape and murder from people in their own community or from their government. People who face the threat of this type of persecution can seek sanctuary in the UK. The right to gain asylum is governed by international law, and you cannot apply for asylum outside of the UK.
Stonewall's work
In 2010 Stonewall published No Going Back: lesbian and gay people and the asylum system, research which is based on interviews with asylum seekers and UK Border Agency (UKBA) staff. It found systemic failures in our asylum system resulting in legitimate lesbian, gay and bi asylum seekers regularly being refused asylum in the UK.
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UKBA and the Home Office have subsequently acknowledged that the asylum system has failed many lgbt asylum seekers and the Government has made a commitment to cease sending lgbt people back to countries where they face persecution.
Stonewall's international work
Being gay is illegal in over 78 countries across the world and being a lesbian is illegal in 49. In 5 countries same-sex sexual activity carries the death penalty.
Stonewall is sharing its lobbying approach and tools with activists fighting for the rights of gay people worldwide. We’re lobbying the UK Government and international organisations to advance equality for lesbian, gay, bi and trans people worldwide.