Japan Immigration News

Japan court orders government to admit gay man as refugee over persecution

Release Date: 2024-07-04
Media: KYODO NEWS
Summary: A Japanese court has ruled that the government must grant refugee status to a gay man from a North African country, stating he faces prosecution for his sexual orientation if he returns home. The man, who arrived in Japan in December 2019, was subjected to family abuse after they discovered his same-sex relationship, including threats and attempts on his life. Presiding Judge Atsushi Tokuchi emphasized the "realistic fear" of harm and noted the lack of protection in his home country.

After his initial application for refugee status was denied in February 2021, and subsequent appeals were rejected, he filed a lawsuit in July 2022 to challenge the immigration authorities' decision. His case is significant as it coincides with Japan's recent guidelines for recognizing refugees, which now acknowledge risks related to gender and sexual orientation.

Following the ruling, the man expressed gratitude and hopes to live and work in Japan without the government appealing the decision. The Immigration Services Agency of Japan is reviewing the ruling for an appropriate response. Japan granted refugee status to a record 303 individuals in 2023, although this number remains low compared to European countries and the United States.
Tags: Court,Refugee Status