Story perspectives

American Transgender Asylum Seekers Face Denial in Netherlands

1/19/2026

Summary

Story summary

In Ter Apel, Netherlands, a growing number of American asylum seekers—mostly transgender individuals—flee perceived threats under U.S. President Donald Trump.
Dutch authorities view the United States as a safe country, making asylum claims harder, while experts say claims must show severe persecution.
Lisa Gayle Carter-Stewart, an American asylum seeker, and her transgender teenager Nox had their asylum request denied, despite Nox's suicidal statements, reflecting fear of returning to the U.S.

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Story summary

In Ter Apel, Netherlands, a growing number of American asylum seekers—mostly transgender individuals—flee perceived threats under U.S. President Donald Trump.
Dutch authorities view the United States as a safe country, making asylum claims harder, while experts say claims must show severe persecution.
Lisa Gayle Carter-Stewart, an American asylum seeker, and her transgender teenager Nox had their asylum request denied, despite Nox's suicidal statements, reflecting fear of returning to the U.S.