The Human Rights Watch recently published a report concerning the terror of anti-gay gangs operating in Iraq. The report has already disseminated through the blogosphere and into international politics, as a British MP, Brent’s Sarah Teather, referenced the report in arguing for amnesty for a gay Iraqi.  If sent home, the unnamed man would face certain persecution and even torture or death.

The UK Border Agency seems to know of a safer place: a closet, in Iraq.

He was told by the UK Border Agency that he should conduct his relationships discreetly. A document read: “Even if your client’s homosexuality were to be established it is viewed that it would be possible for your client to conduct such relationships in private on his return to Iraq. This would allow your client to express his sexuality, albeit in a more limited way than he could do elsewhere.”

His sexual orientation has come under question by officials and it is understood he did not immediately state he was gay upon entering the UK. He is currently living with his partner in Brent.

According to Teather, the man is extremely likely to be executed if sent back to Iraq.

Teather has taken up her constituent’s cause with righteous fervor.

“In light of this deeply distressing report, immigration ministers must show some basic humanity and reverse the decision to deport my constituent. If this deportation goes ahead there is a terrible risk that this man will be killed. How can we possibly claim to be a country that values human rights if we are willing to endanger a life in this way?

“Human Rights Watch has shown that the situation for gay men in Iraq is horrific. Persecution, barbaric violence and killing is a daily fact of life for gay Iraqis. This is exactly the life of fear that the UK government is proposing for my constituent.

“I have done all I can to persuade ministers that they should protect my constituent, and will continue to fight on his behalf. The UK government must send a clear and unambiguous signal that they oppose the death penalty, by refusing to send this man to face execution.”

In most cases, refugees seeking asylum from homophobic and transphobic attacks are denied. The Obama Administration made news in July when it argued that foreign women who face abuse in their homelands can apply for asylum in the US.