Switzerland - In recognition of the various PRIDE events taking place worldwide, with its continued commitment to supporting initiatives that highlight the importance of protecting LGBTI equality, and in its effort to providing opportunities for LGBTI migrants, including refugees, IOM is launching the LGBTI Pulse Memorial Scholarship.

The LGBTI Pulse Memorial Scholarship is created to provide financial support to Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex individuals between 18 and 26 who wish to pursue a college or university degree.

Through this scholarship, LGBTI youth can apply for financial support to pay for educational-related expenses towards a degree from an accredited college, university or technical/vocational institution.

In 2016, the world continues to be a dangerous place for people of diverse sex, sexual orientation and gender identity. In numerous states structural and societal discrimination is deeply entrenched, including in education, health care, employment and housing.

Two of IOM’s fundamental principles are equality and non-discrimination. While the world has made significant progress and advances in promoting and protecting human rights, much more must be done. Some 75 states have laws that criminalize same-sex activity, with punishment ranging all the way from imprisonment to the death penalty.

As IOM continues to stand for human rights for all, the LGBTI Pulse Memorial Scholarship provides a unique opportunity to support LGBTI migrants, including refugees, pursuing higher learning in their country. 

The 2016 award is USD 10,000 and applications are now being accepted until 30 November. Candidates are encouraged to apply online at https://LGBTI.iom.int/pulsescholarship  

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For further information, please contact Daniel Szabo at IOM HQ in Geneva, Email: dszabo@iom.int, Tel: +41 22 76 768 7703