How can we verify News? Some Tips on How to Handle It
Do you get emotional when reading the news? Have you ever discovered that a news story that triggered a wave of anger and frustration might be false or misleading? Or that the headline doesn’t match the content of the news? Has someone on TikTok caused you confusion or stress after reading their incomplete, illogical, or […]
GEM Succeeds: Specialized Aid Reaches Gaza After Long Struggle
The people of the Gaza Strip celebrated the announcement of a ceasefire between the warring parties after 15 months of conflict that claimed the lives of thousands of civilians and caused extensive damage to infrastructure. The ceasefire comes amid a humanitarian catastrophe. According to the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, Gaza is suffering […]
Temporary Safety Tips for LGBTQ+ individuals in Syria
Recently, news has circulated regarding alleged violations targeting individuals from the LGBTQIA+ community. While the accuracy of these reports is still under verification, we emphasize the ethical considerations concerning the privacy of vi ctims and their families, as well as the negative impact of sharing unverified or sensitive information. Disseminating inaccurate news or analyses can […]
Mental health and wellbeing guide for Syrian LGBTQIA+ Individuals
The ongoing changes can impact mental health, especially for LGBTQIA+ individuals. Recognizing symptoms early and practicing self-care can make a big difference. 🔍 Common Signs & Symptoms to Watch For: If you notice these signs, don’t hesitate to reach out for support. 5 Tips to Protect Your Mental Health Acknowledge Your Feelings:It’s okay to feel […]
Protect your privacy: guidelines for LGBTQIA+ individuals in Aleppo
In most Arab countries, LGBTQIA+ individuals—gay, bisexual, intersex, and transgender people—often face various forms of discrimination. This ranges from mistreatment in the workplace, schools, and universities, to even medical facilities like hospitals and health centers. They may be subjected to assault, systematic torture, and even death, especially in detention centers, prisons, or during abductions. Criminalization […]
HIV: discrimination prevents LGBTQ Syrians from accessing treatment
I was hopeful when the Minister of Health in the Syrian Interim Government, “Maram Sheikh,” responded positively to participating in our news report on the reality of HIV. In truth, the purpose of discussing the topic with the minister is not to raise alarms or warnings, as Syria is one of the countries with low […]
The World Bank: Economic prosperity linked to equality
The World Bank published an extensive study highlighting the state of equal opportunities for sexual and gender minorities (LGBTQIA+ individuals) across 64 countries worldwide. The study evaluated laws and regulations that constitute the “basis of discriminatory practices and barriers” faced by these individuals, including in Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Egypt, Tunisia, and Algeria. The analysis covered […]
Middle East: 5 Trans Hate Crimes in a year, and the Hidden is Worse!
Editor’s Note: The following report contains stories of violence. Trans Misogyny is a term first used in 2007 to describe the specific prejudice and hatred directed at trans women (individuals transitioning to female) or feminine-presenting individuals. The term stems from “misogyny,” which denotes hatred of women, highlighting the compounded risks faced by those expressing femininity, […]
Finding Safety: Syrian LGBTQIA+ experiences in the Middle East
“Finding friends was a major challenge in a place like Idlib, Syria, where I live. However, I was able to connect online with people who share the same identity and experiences as me.” – Haidar, Idlib. “I don’t advise anyone in Iraq to build relationships with LGBTQIA+ individuals. With every arrest, the names of others […]
The LGBTQIA+ Individuals Amidst the War in Lebanon
Introduction For years, LGBTQIA+ individuals in Lebanon and Syria have been living under extremely complex and difficult humanitarian conditions due to various factors. The intensity of these conditions has worsened following the recent military escalation in the region. The displacement crisis resulting from the escalation has exacerbated the daily challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ individuals in […]
