AMSTERDAM – A transgender asylum seeker from Yemen was reportedly severely assaulted by two security guards in early May at the reception facility where she was housed. The incident occurred after the woman had allegedly filed numerous complaints of discrimination with the Central Agency for the Reception of Asylum Seekers (COA) over a six-month period, which she says went unaddressed.
According to reports, the woman sustained serious injuries and was threatened during the altercation, which required police intervention. However, in the immediate aftermath, instead of receiving victim support, she was reportedly moved to a separate, basic container complex for a two-week "time-out".
Alleged Denial of Medical Care
The advocacy organization LGBT Asylum Support, which is assisting the victim, stated that during this isolation period, the woman was denied access to essential medical care for her injuries, her personal clothing, and crucial medication, including her hormone therapy.
"This is inhumane and traumatizing," said Sandro Kortekaas, chairman of the foundation, commenting on the handling of the situation by the authorities. The organization highlights this case as a critical failure in the duty of care owed to vulnerable asylum seekers.
Official Response and Next Steps
The victim filed a formal police report nearly three weeks after the assault took place. She has since been relocated to a safe, undisclosed location. LGBT Asylum Support has confirmed that the woman intends to formally address the matter with the Mayor of Amsterdam, Femke Halsema, to seek accountability.
This case brings renewed attention to the persistent challenges and dangers faced by LGBTQ+ individuals within the Dutch asylum system, a topic of ongoing concern for human rights and community organizations across the Netherlands.
