The lived experience of sexual migration among Brazilian transgender people in Ireland

Abstract

Previous research highlighted that, due to the field’s infancy, there was a need for research to further explore the lives of the transgender migrant cohort in Ireland. This study aimed to gain an in-depth understanding of the lived experience of Brazilian transgender people in Ireland, whose migration was motivated by sexual identity. It sought to explore the challenges and benefits facing transgenders and their sexual migration narratives. Qualitative research was carried out with five open-ended semi-structured interviews. The data was analysed through NVivo and four themes were generated: (a) Sexual Migration, (b) Importance of Respect and Support, (c) Outcomes of Migrating, and (d) Psychosocial Stressors. Participants reported a need to escape Brazil to avoid violence due to their gender identity. A feeling of being accepted and respected in Ireland was reported. The themes generated and their implications emphasise a need for appropriate access to social integration, employment and healthcare services.