The International Response to the Syrian Refugee Crisis: A Queer Feminist Analysis of Protection Gaps and the Needs of LGBTIQ Individuals in Refugee Camps

Abstrak

LGBTIQ individuals in Syrian refugee camps face discrimination, violence, and inadequate protection. Protection policies are often too generalized and fail to consider the specific vulnerabilities of LGBTIQ individuals, increasing the risk of gender-based violence and homophobia. The research titled The International Response to the Syrian Refugee Crisis: A Queer Feminist Analysis of Protection Gaps and the Needs of LGBTIQ Individuals in Refugee Camps uses a qualitative method by conducting a journal review. The results show that healthcare services, legal assistance, and psychosocial support in refugee camps are often unresponsive to the specific needs of the LGBTIQ group, further hindering their access to protection and care. Although international organizations and civil society organizations have made efforts to provide support to LGBTIQ refugees, these responses are often poorly coordinated and limited by a lack of resources. Stronger advocacy, training for camp staff, and the implementation of more inclusive policies are needed to protect the rights of LGBTIQ individuals in refugee camps. This study recommends a Queer Feminist approach to create protection policies that are more sensitive and responsive to LGBTIQ needs, with a focus on developing safe complaint mechanisms and improving access to healthcare and mental support services.