Turks and Caicos Islands

The Gayther Refugee and Migrant guides are designed to support people from the global community; however, they are not exclusively LGBTQIA+ guides, as they contain information, resources, and tips that can help anyone seeking refuge or fleeing challenging situations and circumstances where they live. The guides provide valuable and key information for anyone researching their options, a resource for everyone, allies, friends, and anyone looking to understand the world better, regardless of their sexuality or gender identity.

No one chooses to become a refugee or an economic migrant; it is typically something that happens to them and is often out of their control. Whether through those in power abusing their position with regard to policies and laws that target the vulnerable, or through war and conflict taking place around where they live. Though it is often forgotten, the cause is war, conflict, mismanagement and abuse of power; the victims are those affected, the refugees and migrants forced to leave their homes and all they have known.

Unfortunately, we live in a world where identifying as a refugee or economic migrant often comes with labels, unfair stereotypes and preconceptions. If you are someone that is seeking refuge, desperate for help and looking for safety and the ability to ensure your fundamental human rights, such as the right to shelter, food and access to healthcare, remember this was done to you, that you are not at fault, you are not to blame and though it may seem like the world is against you, many people, organisations and nations are willing and able to provide you with the support and help you need.

The relationship between those seeking refuge or assistance and those providing it is a social contract, a long-term relationship, based on trust and collaboration. In providing sanctuary, those receiving help will likely have to make a conscious commitment, one in which they work to integrate into their new homes and communities, as well as accept and understand that they are now in a country that has different customs and cultures than the ones they might be used to and know. Finally, everyone acknowledges that integration is the journey, one that will likely take time and commitment, not the final destination.

The guides showcase the state of individual countries, the ratings on the Safe Country Index, the Gayther LGBTQIA+ Equality Index, and the LGBTQIA+ Safe Country Index, all key indicators of how each country treats its people, especially LGBTQIA+ people. You will learn more about the political environment, refugee statistics, useful phrases in the local languages, healthcare information, details about the country as a whole, and, most importantly, a valuable tool that provides estimated distances to the nearest safe countries from where they are located. Whatever your situation, the guides are a helpful tool when researching your options.