This
is not a LAGLA event, but we are happy to announce it here, not least because
it is a good course and the delegates' fees are very reasonable with an extremely
low student fee (£30). Book early for lower fees.
Many members of LAGLA
may be aware that over half the countries in the world outlaw homosexuality and
seven nations still impose the death penalty for consenting sexual acts between
men. In some African countries legislation
is being introduced to increase penalties for homosexuality. The UK does
consider applications for asylum on the basis of sexual orientation, but also
has a policy that people can go home and be discreet. A recent piece of research commissioned by
Refugee Support found that LGBT asylum seekers face severe difficulties in this
country as they are often isolated from the community organisations and faith
groups that provide support to asylum seekers and that they often experience
homophobic harassment in government accommodation.
At the University of
Greenwich, we are organising the conference, LGBTI Asylum Seekers and Refugees:
a Case of Double Jeopardy, to promote research into this little known area, and
to act as a forum of knowledge transfer between academics, private practitioners,
the voluntary sector and public service providers. We also aim to develop an agenda for reform
and make a long-term impact on social policy and international human
rights. We are working closely with a
number of groups to ensure that the conference is more than just an academic
talking shop and to make sure that the voices of asylum seekers and refugees
are heard. We have applied to the Bar
Council and Law Society for CPD accreditation.
The conference will be held at the University of Greenwich on 6th
and 7th July, full details of booking available at http://www.lgbtiasr-doublejeopardy.org/Conference/ABOUT.html