Finding your way in a new country is never easy—especially when you are a queer refugee navigating the complexities of an asylum process. As a Minorities Right Activist who has dedicated years to peace-building, I know firsthand that while resilience is internal, support must be communal.

Recently, I had the honor of providing feedback for the launch of the new Queeramnesty Switzerland website. My journey as a mentee in their program has been transformative, and I am proud to see my story and my website, AliRazaKhan.com, featured on their platform to help inspire others.

What is Queeramnesty?

Queeramnesty is a specialized group within Amnesty International Switzerland that focuses on the human rights of the LGBTIQ+ community. Their mission is critical: providing social, advisory, and legal support to queer refugees to ensure they can live in a safe environment free from discrimination and persecution.

The asylum process can be a maze of fear and uncertainty. Queeramnesty acts as a compass, offering a Mentoring Program that connects refugees with locals who understand the Swiss system and, more importantly, offer the warmth of human connection.

My Feedback: Why Peer Support Matters

When I was asked to share my experience for the new website, I wanted to emphasize the human element of this work. Here is the feedback I provided, which is now featured on their site:

“I implored people to volunteer. Sign up for Queer Amnesty’s Mentoring Program. Your empathy, time, and understanding of this country are a lifeline for queer refugees who are lost, scared, and alone. You can provide the peer support people like me desperately need.”

— Ali Raza Khan, Mentee of Queeramnesty

A Call to Action: We Need You

The success of programs like these depends entirely on the spirit of volunteerism. If you have ever wanted to make a tangible difference in someone’s life, this is your opportunity.

• Become a Mentor: You don’t need to be a legal expert; you just need to be a friend. Your knowledge of daily life in Switzerland—from navigating public transport to understanding local customs—is a “lifeline” for someone starting from zero.
• Support the Mission: Whether through volunteering or spreading the word, you are helping build a world where everyone, regardless of their religious affiliation or sexual orientation, can live with dignity.

Moving Forward Together

My work has always been about building bridges—whether between religious groups in Pakistan or between refugees and locals in Switzerland. Joining the Queeramnesty family as a mentee has given me the strength to continue my advocacy.

If you are a queer refugee seeking support, or a local resident looking to give back, I highly encourage you to visit Queeramnesty.ch and see how you can get involved.

Let’s ensure that no one has to walk the path to safety alone.