A Guide for LGBTIQ+ Asylum Seekers and Refugees in the Czech Republic
Being treated unfairly or targeted just because of who you are is painful, especially when you’re trying to build a new life in a safer place. Discrimination and hate speech are not only harmful—they can also be illegal. This article will help you understand what counts as discrimination, how to recognize hate speech, and what steps you can take if you experience it.
🧩 What Is Discrimination?
Discrimination happens when someone treats you unfairly, excludes you, or harms you because of your identity. In the Czech Republic, it is illegal to discriminate against someone based on:
- Sexual orientation
- Gender identity or expression
- Race or ethnicity
- Religion or belief
- Disability
- Age
- Nationality or legal status
Examples of discrimination may include:
- A landlord refusing to rent to you because you are gay or trans
- A doctor ignoring your health needs because of your asylum status
- Being bullied or insulted in a shelter or school
- A job application being rejected after revealing you’re queer or trans
Discrimination doesn’t have to be physical—it can be emotional, social, or systemic. If you feel that you’ve been treated unfairly because of who you are, trust your experience.
🗣️ What Is Hate Speech?
Hate speech involves words, gestures, or actions that insult, threaten, or incite violence against someone based on who they are.
Examples of hate speech can include:
- Someone shouting slurs at you in the street
- Online comments calling for violence against LGBTIQ+ people or refugees
- Flyers or messages blaming minorities for social problems
- Someone threatening you for being “different”
Hate speech is not just “someone’s opinion.” It becomes illegal when it crosses the line into threats, dehumanization, or encouraging harm.
🚨 If You Experience Discrimination or Hate Speech
🔹 1. Stay Calm and Safe
- If the situation feels dangerous, leave the area if possible.
- Go to a public place or call someone you trust.
- If you’re in immediate danger, call the emergency line 112 (English-speaking operators are available).
🔹 2. Document What Happened
- Write down what was said or done, including the date, time, location, and people involved.
- If it’s online, take screenshots. If in person, note what witnesses saw or heard.
- Photos or videos (if safe to take them) can be useful evidence.
🔹 3. Talk to Someone You Trust
- You don’t have to go through it alone. Speak to a friend, a caseworker, or someone from your community.
- Even if you’re unsure whether something “counts” as discrimination, it’s okay to ask for a second opinion.
📝 Should You Report It?
You can report discrimination or hate speech to the police or local authorities. However, your safety and comfort are the most important.
✅ Reasons to report:
- It helps build a record of abuse.
- It may protect others in the future.
- Some situations are serious enough to lead to criminal investigations.
❗ Before reporting, consider:
- Do you feel safe interacting with the police?
- Do you want support from a trusted person or translator during the process?
- Are you in a space where you can speak freely about your gender or sexual identity?
Reminder: Reporting is your choice. You are never required to report something if it doesn’t feel safe.
📚 Know Your Rights
- You have the right to be treated with dignity and equality.
- Being LGBTIQ+ or a refugee does not take away your rights under Czech law.
- Hate-based violence or abuse should never be ignored or excused.
💬 Final Message
Discrimination and hate speech are never your fault. You deserve to live without fear, shame, or silence.
If something feels wrong, it probably is. Trust your instincts, protect your well-being, and remember: you are not alone.
RainbowFox is here to help you access reliable information, build community, and feel seen.
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