COA and COC Netherlands have signed a renewed agreement to strengthen their decade-long partnership aimed at improving the safety and well-being of LGBTIQ residents in asylum shelters.
Originally formalized in 2014, the collaboration was established after reports that LGBTIQ residents often felt unsafe in reception centres. Over the years, this partnership has led to measures such as training COA employees and appointing LGBTIQ contact persons, as COA remains committed to guaranteeing a safe and inclusive living environment for all its residents.
COA reported that despite progress, incidents and feelings of insecurity still occur, prompting both organizations to consolidate the cooperation in a new agreement, through which COA will continue to investigate reports and take appropriate action, while COC Netherlands will provide expert advice, support the development of COA’s implementation policy, and provide information, guidance and training for COA employees.
Key initiatives highlighted by the COA include:
- Continuing employee training on supporting LGBTIQ residents, with specialised training for LGBTIQ contact persons (over 250 contact persons currently active).
- Promoting awareness activities at reception locations such as rainbow cafés, raising the Progress flag, and organising activities on the International Day Against Gay, Lesbian, Bi, Intersex and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT) and Coming Out Day.
- Allowing LGBTIQ residents, where possible, to request shared accommodation with other LGBTIQ individuals.