Journal article

Publication details

Assessing the Refugee Claims of LGBTI People: Is the DSSH Model Useful for Determining Claims by Women for Asylum Based on Sexual Orientation?
in journal: International Journal of Refugee Law

Volume number:
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Release year: 2017
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Author(s) details

Jasmine Dawson

Paula Gerber

Publication description

Keywords:
asylum, LGBTQI, refugee status
Abstract:
Although, in recent decades, the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex persons have been better protected, there remains significant room for improvement in the way claims for asylum based on sexual orientation, gender identity, and intersex status are assessed. Those claiming refugee status because they have a well-founded fear of persecution based on such issues continue to be asked inappropriate questions. The relatively new Difference, Stigma, Shame, and Harm (DSSH) model proposes that interviews to determine whether a person is a refugee should focus on eliciting asylum seekers’ perceptions of the difference, stigma, shame, and harm they have experienced. This model is being used by a number of States, and has been endorsed by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, but has yet to be the subject of rigorous scholarly analysis. This article seeks to fill this gap, and examines, in particular, whether it is an appropriate model for assessing the refugee claims of women seeking asylum based on persecution on account of their sexual orientation.