Shaping Tomorrow: Queer Asylum in Europe Conference
Conference on Queer Asylum in Europe
20 and 21 November, 2025
Pakhuis de Zwijger, Amsterdam
NB: REGISTRATION FOR THIS EVENT IS NOW CLOSED
Shaping Tomorrow is a conference on queer asylum in Europe, organised by COC Netherlands, and funded by the European Union’s Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund.
As many LGBTIQ+ people around the world face persecution, some are forced to flee their homes and seek protection elsewhere. However, going through the asylum process is not without challenges. Across Europe, the rise of anti-migration rhetoric has driven increasingly restrictive asylum policies. The EU Pact on Migration and Asylum, to be implemented in 2026, will introduce both challenges and opportunities to find new solutions that respect human dignity.
At the conference we will reflect on how current developments affect LGBTIQ+ people seeking refuge in Europe and how we can respond to these changes. Through workshops, lectures, panel discussions and inspiration sessions organised in four thematic tracks, together we will spark new ideas to work on shaping a tomorrow where people who flee because of their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression or sex characteristics can obtain a fair asylum process, safe and dignified reception, and the protection and support they need to rebuild their lives.
Shaping tomorrow
To help support and safeguard asylum for LGBTIQ+ people in Europe, Shaping Tomorrow unites a diverse group of stakeholders, including LGBTIQ+ asylum seekers, activists, researchers, legal practitioners, social workers and policy officials.
Main event and Side event
The conference will feature a main event for all participants alongside a dedicated side event for asylum seekers residing in the Netherlands and refugees residing in the EU, ensuring that LGBTIQ+ refugees have an active role, sharing practical guidance and personal stories.
Main event
Across Europe, the rise of anti-migration rhetoric has driven increasingly restrictive asylum policies. The EU Pact on Migration and Asylum, to be implemented in 2026, will introduce both challenges and opportunities to find new solutions that respect human dignity.
How will the current shifts affect queer people seeking refuge, and how can we respond with sustainable solutions? The conference will address these questions through workshops, lectures, panel discussions and inspiration sessions across four thematic tracks:
TRACK 1- reception and accommodation
How does the changing landscape affect reception and accommodation conditions for asylum seekers? From detention-like environments in reception centres to the lack of safe spaces, we will address the challenges LGBTIQ+ asylum seekers face in accessing a safe place to live including adequate health care.
TRACK 2- NGO support and community responses
What is the role of NGOs and civil society in the changing asylum context? We will discuss how shrinking space for civil society under restrictive policies and nationalist governments is making it harder for us to work, including legal and financial barriers. We will also share examples of creative resistance, the strength of cross-border solidarity and new opportunities the EU Migration Pact might bring.
TRACK 3- asylum procedures and legal frameworks
How do anti-migration politics and stricter asylum rules affect LGBTIQ+ asylum seekers’ chances and how can lawyers and allies respond? We will speak about chances for stronger EU protection, fairer credibility assessment and how to tackle specific barriers for different SOGIESC groups in asylum procedures.
TRACK 4- personal experiences and testimonies
What can we learn from personal stories of resilience? We will explore how a changing asylum landscape really impacts the lives of LGBTIQ+ refugees. From navigating increasingly hostile systems to coping with the psychological and social toll of restrictive policies, prolonged procedures and deportation threats.
Side event
COC Netherlands facilitates a side event during the Shaping Tomorrow Conference. With the side event we want to ensure LGBTIQ+ refugees have an active role and voice in the conference. The side event will be organised with, for, and by LGBTIQ+ refugees. The event will serve as a platform where they can address important topics, showcase their skills and talents. This dedicated side event is primarily for asylum seekers and status holders residing in the Netherlands and status holders residing in the EU. Activities, talks and workshops will be divided in three tracks: culture, education, and networking.
Applying for scholarships
To make the conference accessible, we offer scholarships for those who might not otherwise be able to attend. Scholarships cover travel and accommodation. Accommodation is arranged by COC; you arrange your own travel, which will be reimbursed if the scholarship is approved. Please note that invited speakers and individuals whose proposals have been accepted do not have to apply for a scholarship.
There are two types of scholarships:
- International Scholarships – Main Event
For activists and recognised refugees residing outside the Netherlands. Includes:
- Economy travel to Amsterdam (max €300; from Belgium/Luxembourg arranged by COC)
- Hotel (2 nights: 19–21 Nov) arranged by COC
Requirements: You contribute to the conference or side event (e.g., presentation, workshop, panel); you have completed all attendance and evaluation forms.
*If you are a refugee: you must have refugee status, or have subsidiary/ temporary protection in a European state. Unfortunately, we will not be able to invite you if you are still in procedure in a country other than the Netherlands.
- National Scholarships – Side Event
For activists, refugees, and asylum seekers residing in the Netherlands. Includes:
- For participants traveling within the Netherlands, COC will arrange train tickets
- Participants who need to travel more than 2 hours (one way) are eligible for up to two nights of accommodation (19-21 Nov). Proof of travel time is required (e.g. screenshot from 9292 or NS).
Requirements: You contribute to the event; are an asylum seeker or status holder (priority to those recognised 2021–2025); you speak and understand English; you have completed all attendance and evaluation forms.
How to apply for a scholarship
Please send your application as a PDF to [email protected]. In your application, include:
- Motivation with a description of your work related to the theme (max. 300 words)
- Indicate whether you are applying for an International or National scholarship
- Describe your contribution to the programme
Deadline: Apply by 20 September 2025.
Scholarships are limited and awarded based on relevance, motivation, and diversity.
About us
The Shaping Tomorrow conference on Queer Asylum in Europe is an initiative by COC, funded by the European Union’s Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund. The motivation for this conference stems from the belief that everyone deserves to be themselves in freedom and safety, and to have the opportunity to reach their full potential, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or sex characteristics.
We work for the emancipation, acceptance, and equal rights of LGBTIQ+ people worldwide and while pursuing solutions to achieve this, our challenge is to navigate shrinking civic space, the implications of the EU Migration Pact, shifting public perceptions, and the rise of far-right, anti-LGBTIQ+ and anti-migrant narratives, and to transform these challenges into momentum for change.
At its core, this conference works towards ensuring that people who flee because of their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression or sex characteristics will obtain a fair asylum process, safe and dignified reception, and the protection and support they need to rebuild their lives.
Register for the event
Registration for this event is now closed
Helaas is de inschrijving gesloten.
