Exceptional Encounters. Sexual orientation, gender identity and the Belgian asylum system

Korte beschrijving

In Belgium, around 4% of persons applying for international protection do so for fearing persecution on the ground of their sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI). While the migration regime is becoming increasingly stricter, an exceptional opening appears to be created for SOGI refugees, whose identities and values supposedly correspond with and confirm Belgium as an LGBTIQ+ friendly nation. At the same time, the asylum system was not made to receive SOGI applicants. The thesis traces the trajectory of SOGI applicants throughout the Belgian asylum system, from their accommodation to the preparation of their interview and eventual examination of their asylum claim. The research’s broad perspective brings into focus the various actors who are a part of this process, working within, alongside or against the asylum apparatus. Drawing on extensive fieldwork and in-depth interviews, the findings show how SOGI applicants’ trajectories are impacted by the places and people they encounter along the way, just as these exceptional encounters leave an impact on their interlocutors.