In the era defined by globalization, migration has become a key topic in the social sciences. Although migration brings benefits at both the individual and societal levels, it also presents specific challenges, especially for immigrants with minority identities such as queer people. They may feel overlooked, misunderstood, or stigmatized in the country to which they immigrate precisely because of their intersecting identities (e.g., queer x immigrant). A person may feel that they do not fit into the queer community because they are an immigrant or, conversely, that they do not fit in with other migrants because they are queer.
Most migration research has traditionally focused on comparing very different cultural and socio-political environments (e.g., Africa vs. Europe). In contrast, there has been insufficient research into the extensive migration between regions with less pronounced cultural differences, such as Czechia and Slovakia. A new study, in which Andrea Stašek and Zuzana Scott from INPSY co-created, therefore focuses on the experiences of queer people who migrated from Slovakia to Czechia.
The aim of the research was to answer a key question: How do queer Slovaks living in Czechia perceive their migration in the context of their identity, adaptation, and well-being? The authors collected stories from 16 participants, six of whom took part in a focus group (group discussion) and ten of whom were interviewed individually in depth. The main objective of the methods was to identify shared obstacles, but also adaptation mechanisms that the study participants used or continue to use on their migration journey to the Czech Republic.
New country, new self
The results of the study showed that for many Slovak queer migrants, moving to the Czech Republic was a fundamental experience that enabled them to change their lives. The move often served as an escape from the socio-culturally and politically restrictive environment in Slovakia. Respondents described migration as an opportunity for greater authenticity and free expression of their queer identity, which was impossible for them in Slovakia. Some participants discovered and openly expressed their queer identity for the first time thanks to migration, while others appreciated the generally more liberal atmosphere of larger Czech cities. At the same time, however, most participants did not perceive their queer identity as central, but rather as just one part of themselves.
While participants generally lived authentic lives in Czechia, they often hid or toned down expressions of their identity when visiting Slovakia or interacting with conservative family members (e.g., removing rainbow accessories or changing their style of dress). This duality of identity thus proved to be a necessary adaptation strategy. Participants actively adjusted their level of openness depending on the social context.
I feel better here, but it could be better
Participants also often mentioned that they feel better and freer in the Czech Republic and can express their identity more openly. Even so, they did not perceive the Czech environment as ideal by any means. More participants encountered discrimination in the Czech Republic and expressed fear about the political climate and possible regression in the rights of queer people. Their reflections thus emphasized that the path to full acceptance and safety is still in progress and that progress in society and politics remains essential to achieve true equality.
This study thus highlights the need for culturally sensitive support for queer migrants, even for migration between countries that are relatively similar. Universities, health care facilities, and community centers should offer welcoming and accepting spaces that support the free expression of identities, thereby helping to reduce the stress that migrants often experience. The promotion of stable protection of queer people's rights and the implementation of anti-discrimination policies also remain key to long-term well-being.
Recommended citation:
Maderová, B., Stašek, A., Návratová, L., Doležalová, T. F., & Scott, Z. (2025). Navigating identity on the move: the adaptation and well-being of LGBTQIA+ Slovak immigrants in Czechia. Psychology & Sexuality, 1–21. https://doi.org/10.1080/19419899.2025.2580978
