Faces of migration: LGBTQ+ migrants, health care in the USA and Italy

Increasing numbers of LGBTQ+ migrants are fleeing potential prison sentences and even death penalties. They are seeking safety and asylum in Europe as authorities in their home countries tighten anti-homosexuality laws. Currently, more than 60 countries have anti-LGBTQ+ laws, with the majority in Africa, the Middle East, and parts of Asia. Most European countries do not keep statistics on the number of migrants seeking refugee status due to persecution of LGBTQ+ people. However, non-governmental organisations tracking the phenomenon report that the numbers are increasing as countries enact or tighten anti-homosexual laws.

Rocca di Papa, a town located several dozen kilometres from Rome, has a welcome centre for migrants and asylum seekers. Migrants from countries such as Syria and Sudan attend Italian language classes and receive health care at the centre before seeking work. The Red Cross operates the centre and receives funding from the Italian government.

As of 2022, approximately 21.2 million non-citizen immigrants live in the United States, making up approximately 7% of the US population. Undocumented migrants often face difficulties obtaining health insurance. A recent KFF study found that only four states – California, Oregon, Washington, and Colorado – make all adult immigrants eligible for state insurance.