Identity construction of queer migrants in their host countries and the role of NGOs

Abstract

Drastic changes in life, such as migration, impact identity and shape how one understands their environment. In this process, the host country’s attitude plays a huge role in the adaptation of migrants to their new ecosystem and surroundings. Cultural similarities, attitudes of NGOs, and inclusive policies have an impact on creating safe spaces, along with positive attitudes of members of the host country. While Türkiye ranks second in the world for hosting refugees and other people in need of international protection (UNHCR, 2024), the prejudice against the immigrant community is a notable problem. Combined with persistent hostility toward the LGBTQ+ community, queer immigrants in Türkiye face several challenges in their everyday lives. As this study grounds in a constructive understanding of identity, it aims to understand how queer immigrant individuals negotiate these marginalized identities using Kiesling’s (2022) stance theory. For this purpose, in-depth semi-structured interviews and social media scrollback interviews were conducted with eight queer migrant participants recruited through snowball sampling. Findings reveal the migration experience leads to a deep self-reflection among queer migrants. In their social lives, their queer identity plays a key role rather than their migrant identity. As the intersection of these identities remains complex, language (both Turkish and Lubunca) plays a key role in belonging and identity expression. Participants also emphasized the need for queer-led NGO support that encourages legal awareness, community building, and solidarity.