Views on the LGBTQIA+ community and their legal rights can differ significantly across the world. Our office strives for inclusion and safety of all students at all locations, regardless of their sexuality and identity. We acknowledge the intersectional components of overlapping identities, and how they may affect an individual’s experiences in each place.  

We encourage you to research the cultural differences and norms surrounding the LGBTQIA+ community in your host country when preparing for your term away. The following reflection questions may be helpful to consider: 

  • What social, legal, and medical services and resources are available to LGBTQIA+ individuals in my host city or country?   
  • Will local values and/or country laws affect my decision to study in a particular country if certain relationships are criminalized? 
  • Depending on the culture or laws of my host country, will I be able to be open about my identity, or will I want to be more cautious with whom I share my identity? 
  • Does my LGBTQIA+ identity conflict with my host community’s religious or cultural values or traditions? 
  • What is the local attitude towards queer relationships?