What to Do If You Face Gender-Based Violence in the Czech Republic: A Guide for LGBTIQ+ Asylum Seekers and Refugees
Gender-based violence (GBV) refers to any harmful act directed at a person based on their gender, sexual orientation, or gender identity. It includes physical violence, emotional abuse, threats, sexual assault, and other forms of mistreatment. LGBTIQ+ people—especially those seeking asylum or living as refugees—are particularly vulnerable due to isolation, discrimination, or lack of support.
In this article, we explain what to do if you face gender-based violence in the Czech Republic, and how you can protect yourself or help someone else in such a situation.
🌈 Recognizing Gender-Based Violence
GBV can happen in many places: at home, in the workplace, in public spaces, detention facilities, or even in shelters or refugee camps. It can look like:
- Someone touching you without your consent
- Being insulted, humiliated, or threatened because of your identity
- Physical attacks (hitting, kicking, pushing)
- Sexual violence or coercion
- Forced control of your body, clothing, relationships, or freedom
- Online threats or harassment
If something feels wrong or makes you afraid, take it seriously.
🚨 If You Are in Immediate Danger
- Call the police by dialing 158 or the Emergency Line by dialing 112. You can speak in English, and an operator will help.
- Stay as calm as you can. If possible, find a safe location (even temporarily) like a shop, bus stop, or another public area.
- If you cannot speak, try to text a trusted person to call for help.
🧠 After the Incident: What You Can Do
1. Take Care of Your Immediate Needs
- If you are injured or feel unsafe, seek medical attention.
2. Talk to a Trusted Person
- Do not go through this alone. Talk to someone you trust—a friend, roommate, social worker, or community member.
- Telling someone can help you feel safer and supported. It also helps in case you later decide to take legal action.
3. Write Down What Happened
- Try to record the details: the date, time, place, what was said or done, names (if known), and any witnesses.
- Take photos of injuries or damage, if you feel comfortable.
- Save messages, emails, or screenshots if the abuse happened online.
This information can be useful for your own memory, for telling a social worker, or for reporting to the police later.
4. Know That It Was Not Your Fault
- You did not deserve to be harmed, no matter your identity or past.
- Violence and discrimination are never acceptable.
🗣️ You Can Always Ask for Help
Being an asylum seeker or refugee may feel overwhelming, but you have rights in the Czech Republic. You do not need to stay silent. Here are some tips:
- If someone is threatening you repeatedly or making you feel unsafe, it’s okay to set clear boundaries and say:
➤ “Don’t talk to me like that.”
➤ “Stop touching me.”
➤ “I will call for help.” - If you see someone else being abused or attacked, and it is safe to do so, call 112 or alert a nearby person.
- If you are scared to report something to the police, talk with a support person who can go with you or help translate.
🏳️🌈 Important Reminders
- You have the right to feel safe—in your home, in shelters, on the street, and in public places.
- Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
- Your identity is valid. No one has the right to harm or shame you for who you are.
❤️ For Support and Connection
RainbowFox is here to provide you with information, community, and encouragement. If you need to talk or ask a question, you are welcome to contact us.
🕸️ Visit us at: www.rainbowfox.org
📩 You can also message us confidentially via our website.
Stay safe. Stay proud. You matter. 🏳️⚧️🏳️🌈