Exploring Liminality and Transactional Intimacy Among Queer Refugees in Lebanon and Turkey

In the world of queer refugees, a dark reality often lurks beneath the surface, where transactional encounters become a means of survival but also a gateway to exploitation and abuse. These individuals, seeking safety and acceptance in foreign lands, find themselves navigating a treacherous landscape where their vulnerability is preyed upon. The intersection of sexuality, gender identity, and migration creates a complex web of challenges that many queer refugees must navigate with resilience and determination.

For queer refugees, engaging in transactional sex can be a double-edged sword. While it may provide a source of income and a temporary reprieve from economic hardship, it also exposes them to significant risks. The power dynamics inherent in these transactions often leave queer refugees vulnerable to exploitation and abuse, with their marginalized status further exacerbating their susceptibility to harm.

The exploitation of queer refugees in transactional sex is a stark manifestation of the broader issues of power and privilege that permeate society. As they grapple with the challenges of displacement and discrimination, these individuals are forced to make difficult choices to survive in environments that offer limited opportunities for traditional forms of employment. The lack of legal protections and social support systems leaves them susceptible to exploitation by those who seek to exploit their vulnerabilities for personal gain.

In the face of such adversity, many queer refugees demonstrate remarkable resilience and resourcefulness in navigating the complexities of their circumstances. Despite the risks and challenges they face, they find ways to assert their agency and reclaim their autonomy in a world that often seeks to diminish their worth. Their stories are a testament to the strength and courage of those who refuse to be defined by the injustices they endure.

It is essential for society to recognize and address the systemic inequalities that contribute to the exploitation of queer refugees in transactional sex. By amplifying their voices and advocating for their rights, we can work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable world where all individuals, regardless of their background or identity, can live free from harm and discrimination. Only through collective action and solidarity can we dismantle the structures of oppression that perpetuate the cycle of exploitation and create a more just and compassionate society for all.