FMR 42 Protection in the city: some good practice in Nairobi

With issues relating to sexual orientation and gender identity a relatively new field for funders, the opportunity exists for funders to exert strategic influence on the development of improved policy and practice.

LGBT aid workers and their managers confront a number of dilemmas in deciding whether LGBT staff will be safe - and accepted - working in certain countries.

Agencies need to be mindful of the special needs of LGBTI victims of disasters in order to enhance protection and minimise unintended harmful consequences of relief efforts.

Despite a challenging protection environment, an assistance programme for LGBTI refugees in Nairobi offers examples of good practice that could be replicated in other urban settings.

Expression of non-conforming sexual orientation and gender identity depends on social, legal, cultural and political opportunities which provide space for exploration and the emergence of new identities. People's protection will also depend on these.

The US has taken some positive steps to improve the treatment of gay and transgender asylum seekers in immigration detention but could make improvements in four key areas.

As states increasingly use detention as a means of controlling migration flows, sexual minority migrants find themselves in detention facilities where they may face multiple violations of their human rights.

US refugee resettlement agencies are directing more attention and effort toward assisting LGBT refugees and asylum seekers, and best practices are beginning to emerge.

Practical initiatives, such as creating a welcoming space, ensuring confidentiality, training staff, providing critical resources and fostering inclusive workplaces, can promote a more humane resettlement experience.

In 2009 the city council of Bogotá introduced a policy to guarantee equal rights for LGBT people in the city.