Become a Supporter

Please help us
to continue our work

 

  



 

 

 

press release - jANUARY 27TH 2011


Activist murder shows Uganda unsafe for lesbians and gay meN

Following the murder of Ugandan LGBTI rights activist, David Kato, UK Lesbian & Gay Immigration Group (UKLGIG) is warning of the continued threat to lesbian and gay asylum seekers if removed back to Uganda.

UKLGIG Executive Director, Phil Jones, said, “This shocking murder demonstrates once again that Uganda remains an oppressive and unsafe country for lesbians and gay men. The UK Government must ensure that Ugandan lesbians and gay men who have fled to the UK are given the protection they need, and not returned to be the next victims of violent homophobia.”

Asylum seekers from Uganda form one of the largest client groups currently assisted by UKLGIG. But a combination of lack of access to expert legal assistance, the detention system and poor decision-making can leave LGBTI asylum seekers facing removal from the UK.

Phil Jones added, “We can only extend our sympathies to the family and friends of the brave David Kato, and commend other LGBTI activists in Uganda and around the world for continuing their struggle for justice and human rights.

“The British government must press the Ugandan authorities to ensure that the perpetrators of this murder are brought to justice. It is time to abandon the hateful homophobic law-making that encourages violence against lesbians and gay men and forces some to flee to the UK.”

Editors' Notes

UK Lesbian and Gay Immigration Group was founded in 1993 to assist same sex, bi national couples win the right for foreign partners to remain in the United Kingdom on the basis of their relationship. The work of the group resulted in the first ever legislation in this country giving rights to lesbians and gay men. From 1997 the group achieved increasing steps towards equality and with many of its recommendations being included in the Civil Partnership Act, immigration equality for same sex partners was finally achieved in December 2005.

Since 2004 UKLGIG has shifted its focus towards the problems faced by lesbian and gay asylum seekers. Every day, the group receives calls for help from lesbians and gay men seeking the protection of the UK, because they are persecuted in their home country. There is currently very little support available for them and the group’s asylum work is a vital lifeline - a place to meet others struggling with similar issues, a source of quality legal advice, of support and importantly of hope.

For further details please contact:

Phil Jones
Executive Director
UK Lesbian & Gay Immigration Group
Tel: 020 7922 7812

www.uklgig.org.uk

 

... UKLGIG, UK Border Agency, UKVisas

Disclaimer
Although every effort has been made to ensure that the information on this website is correct and up to date, it is offered for the purpose of providing general information and guidance only and should not be construed as formal legal advice. UKLGIG disclaims any liability resulting from reliance on such information. You are strongly advised to seek professional legal advice from a qualified immigration solicitor.

UKLGIG Copyright.   Unauthorised reproduction, electronic or otherwise is prohibited, other than for personal use. 
Site designed, constructed and maintained by Ian Morton.

UK Lesbian & Gay Immigration Group      -     Registered Charity No 1101400     -      PO Box 51524, London SE1 7ZW