Freedom from Fear! Opportunities and Encounters of Ugandan LGBTs in the Integration Process in The Netherlands

Homosexual acts are illegal in 76 countries Uganda inclusive. Wide spread expression of condemnation, criticism, social discrimination, persecution and marginalization against LGBT community in Uganda has forced LGBT persons to seek asylum in neighboring countries or in Europe especially in the Netherlands being one of Europe most gayfriendly nation. The objective of the study was to gain insights into the experiences of Uganda LGBT migrants see-king asylum in The Netherlands to understand their opportunities, threats, and challenges comparable to their country of origin. Six (6) weeks was dedicated to field work at the Ter Apel asylum camp and other ar-ranged places to meet with willing participants. The study had a total of 15 LGBT respondents consisting of 9 male and 6 female with age range between 25 to 44 years. 9 respondents had received positive réponses to their immigration application while 6 others are awaiting results. Primary data was collected through personal interviews aided by a checklist. Nussbaum (2003) “capabilities” approach theoretical concept was adapted for the research in order to identify core human capabilities critical to fulfilling functioning within the Dutch society and assessing the ove-rall quality of life. Result shows that all the 15 respondents indicated that compared to Uganda, that the Netherlands is safer for LGBT persons to seek refuge ,6 university-educated respondents indicated they would prefer to enroll for further studies in order to better their lives, 8 respondents indicated that employment opportunity/working condition for LGBT persons in the Netherlands is better, 7 respondent underline that the Dutch language is a big barrier to employment opportunities. All 15 respondents had not accommodation problem, found health care system in the Netherlands inclusive .3 respondents raised personal, critical concern the discrimination LGBT person within the asylum camp face restriction toward their ability to play and enjoy recreational activities , experience little or no control over their living environment, and have no rights in political participation even though they technically residents here, or rights to seek employment within restrictions or discrimination. The Netherlands clearly has a long way towards achieving a true society of equality be-tween the LGBT community and hetero- sexual individuals, regardless of the global image of tolerance and the pro-gay law is shown to the world. The immigration application, procedure, assessment and interviews at the IND should be flexible and more inclusive wi- thout preferences to LGBT persons considered as ‘group at risk’ alone. The Dutch govern- ment can work closely with LGBT community leaders and other grassroots organizations in order to combat all shades of discrimination to achieve equality under the law for homo- sexuals and heterosexuals who have found some atmosphere of safety, comfort, and freedom in the Netherlands as their country of residence.