Purpose: As part of the plan The Rainbow City of Bergen: Plan for gender and sexual diversity 2023-2027, the city of Bergen includes information about the importance of taking responsibility for LGBTIQ+ refugees.
Stimulus/Rationale: Many immigrants in Bergen come from countries with a different view on gender and sexuality diversity than in Norway. In several countries homosexuality is still illegal, so an important task for the city is to inform about LGBTI people’s situation in Norway. Immigrants at an early stage must be informed of LGBTI people’s legal status in Norway, such as protection against discrimination, legislation about marriage, and starting a family. Refugees and other people belonging to social groups where they may be in a vulnerable position because of their sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression must be especially well taken care of. Refugees having an LGTBI identity are particularly vulnerable because:
- They are quite often subjected to discrimination and violence in immigrant reception centres.
- They may have difficulties in explaining their reason for seeking asylum (if it relates to gender and sexual identity) when using an interpreter of the same nationality or background.
- Many lack trust in representatives from the authorities due to negative experiences during their escape and in their country of origin.
- Some are traumatized because of abuse or assault in their country or during their escape.
Process:
Bergen provides residence to vulnerable refugees with various sexual identities, gender expressions and gender identities. When creating the plan for The Rainbow City of Bergen, Bergen municipality emphasized the need for follow-up and protection of queer migrants and refugees. Bergen municipality will continue to open for rapid and prioritized settlement of queer migrants and refugees. In Bergen municipality it must therefore ensure that information about rights and resources for queer people should be available to all residents of asylum reception.
The plan was approved by the city council in October 2023. The municipality will develop improved measures in cooperation with the target group. Training and instruction will be given to staff working with refugees.
Impact: TBA.
Key reference documents: The Rainbow City of Bergen: Plan for gender and sexual diversity 2023-2027
