Scams must be exposed but not undermine genuine refugees
London, UK – 15th April 2026
“The Peter Tatchell Foundation condemns fake asylum scams and remains committed to supporting only genuine LGBT+ asylum seekers fleeing persecution. False claims and the exploitation of LGBTs by organised criminal gangs undermine public confidence in the asylum system. It is damaging to those who have a legitimate claim for refugee status,” said Peter Tatchell, director of the Peter Tatchell Foundation.
He was responding to today’s BBC report about fabricated gay asylum applications:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c937wldkkw8o
Peter Tatchell added:
“We recognise many of the issues highlighted in today’s BBC report. It underlines the urgent need for robust, fair and effective processes to ensure that only genuine LGBTs secure asylum. The UK Government must act decisively to tackle criminal networks and individuals exploiting the asylum system, while ensuring that those in genuine need are identified quickly and given the protection they deserve.
“Last year, we spoke out after being overwhelmed by a surge in asylum seekers who we believed to be fake. We expressed concern that Worcester LGBT+ was not a genuine group but a front for ripping-off authentic LGBT+ refugees with exorbitant fees and promoting fake asylum claims by people who are straight.
“Our priority has always been those facing real danger because of their sexuality or gender identity. The Home Office must not allow fraudulent claims to weaken its resolve to give asylum to LGBTs who have suffered, or are at risk of, arrest, imprisonment, torture and the failure of police in their home countries to protect them from mob violence and attempted murder.
“Safeguarding the integrity of the asylum system is essential to maintaining public trust and, most importantly, to ensuring that real victims of homophobic persecution are not overlooked or refused a safe haven,” said Mr Tatchell.