Surprised there isn't already a thread, Kiana Firouz, Iranian, Lesbian being refused asylum

[Ewe]

I have been in a bit of a revision bubble so only just picked up this shocking story. It doesn't appear to have been reported in mainstream press but here are some links to blogs and websites that are carrying the story.

The F Word

Another article

Seem to be a few doubts about the story but the second link looks like it has done some digging and authenticated it.

Let's assume it's true, how can the government justify not granting asylum? I'll hold my hands up and say I have absolutely NO understanding how this works in real/practical terms.

They aren't "Al-Qa'ida members."

Send your correction to the editor of The Independent.

This Guardian article also has more general information on the challenge to existing UK policy on gay and lesbian asylum seekers. Two major cases were heard recently by the Supreme Court.

Bad journalism from Harri - he is very hit and miss the guy - first he says "members" then he says "strong sympathisers" later in the piece. Then he points out "Remember though: this was a Kafka-trial where the defendants were not allowed to hear the evidence against them"

So the premise of the article is stupid. You don't need to compare the two just for a bit of infotainment.

Fantastic news. If Emiline Pankhurst was going to be flogged and/or killed for being a feminist activist we wouldn't be where we are today. This woman could be the very beginning of something.

thanks - I'd been wondering what happened.

It's also now official policy (i.e. no deportations of at-risk gays and lesbians) according to an announcement last week - here.