The research team used the scoping review methodology (see below for reference) to rapidly assess a broad range of literature. This approach allowed the research team to (A) examine the extent, range and nature of the qualitative literature about this topic, (B) map out key themes and tensions that emerged across research findings, (C) contrast and compare policy and practice implications for LGBTQI migrants living in Canada versus elsewhere in the Global North (D) identify knowledge strengths and gaps and key areas for future research and (E) assess the links between two often distinct bodies of literature: (1) LGBTQI people living in Global South versus (2) LGBTQI migrants (especially forced migrants) living in the Global North.

This scoping review included 4 bodies of literature: (1) LGBTQI people living in the Global South, (2) LGBTQI migrants living in Canada (3) LGBTQI people living in US (4) LGBTQI people living elsewhere in the Global North. Overall, 241 publications were assessed for this scoping review.  Although the scope of this scoping review was ambitious, it has provided fruitful synthesis of data from across regions and geographies that are not usually analysed together. Bringing together the Global South and Canadian literature provided key insights that inform reflections related to Canada’s possible role and contribution to the global LGBTQI human rights movement.

Key reference: Arksey, H. and O'Malley, L. (2005) Scoping studies: towards a methodological framework, International Journal of Social Research Methodology, 8, 1, 19-32.