Central London discussion to spotlight LGBTQ+ ex-Muslim rights and persecution

By A Representative 

On June 13, 2025, the Dissident Club in Central London will host a public discussion to mark the 18th anniversary of the Council of Ex-Muslims of Britain (CEMB) and to commemorate World Refugee Day. The event, scheduled from 7:00 to 9:00 pm, will feature speakers Ali Malik, Maryam Namazie, and Taha Siddiqui, who are expected to address the intersecting challenges faced by LGBTQ+ ex-Muslims globally.

Organized by Ex-Muslims International and the Council of Ex-Muslims of Britain, the event takes place during Pride Month and aims to highlight the often overlooked realities of those who face persecution both for their sexual orientation and for leaving the Islamic faith.

According to the organizers, LGBTQ+ individuals who renounce or question Islam face compounded risks, particularly in Muslim-majority countries where both apostasy and homosexuality are often criminalized. Currently:

- Apostasy and blasphemy carry the death penalty in at least 12 countries, including Iran, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Mauritania, and Afghanistan.

- More than 30 countries with Muslim-majority populations criminalize same-sex relationships.

- At least six countries impose capital punishment for homosexuality.

Speakers and organizers argue that these legal frameworks are grounded in traditional interpretations of Islamic jurisprudence, which view same-sex relationships and religious dissent as severe moral violations. The resulting environment, they say, leads to marginalization, violence, and lack of access to healthcare, education, employment, and legal protection for those affected.

The event also seeks to raise awareness about the lived experiences of LGBTQ+ ex-Muslims within diasporic communities, where individuals may continue to face familial and community-based pressure, discrimination, or coercion, including practices such as conversion therapy.

In connection with Pride Month, Ex-Muslims International has issued a call to action, encouraging the public to support LGBTQ+ ex-Muslims by listening to their stories, advocating for secular and inclusive refugee policies, and challenging bigotry—especially when framed as religious or cultural norms.

The gathering in London is expected to serve as a platform for voices that are often silenced, and to promote greater visibility, safety, and rights for LGBTQ+ ex-Muslims around the world.