Diversity and Identity

Cultural attitudes can differ vastly from country to country (and indeed these attitudes will not be uniform even within one country) – it’s all part of what makes the world such a naturally interesting and diverse place. Being introduced to new customs and traditions will be an exciting part of your time abroad. However, bear in mind that the UK is a comparatively liberal society, and that you may encounter attitudes abroad that are more conservative than you are used to. Think about your own outlook and habits, and consider how they might be met in your host country.

For example:

• Alcohol – do you know the legal drinking age for your host country, and the regulations for consuming alcohol in public places?
• Smoking – if you are a smoker, do you know the details of any smoking bans in operation in your host country?
• Race, Ethnicity and Nationality – Remember that by the very nature of being a foreigner, you are automatically a minority in your host country. This is likely to attract the attention of local residents, and will predominantly be a reflection of friendly and good-natured interest.However, it is best to avoid being overly conspicuous and to steer clear of any confrontational situations.

Things to consider: 

• How is my ethnic group perceived in my host country?
• How should I react if I find something to be offensive? • Is the person curious or do they have bad intentions?
• Am I used to being part of the majority at home but will be a minority abroad? Or vice versa
• Who should I contact if I do face racial or discriminatory incidents?
  
  Useful websites: https://www.diversityabroad.com/article/minoritystudents-color-abroad

Religion and Spiritual Life

Religion plays a role in many cultures around the world. Whether you practise a religion or not, going abroad exposes you to different belief systems, which gives you an opportunity to learn more about your host country’s culture. Do your best to understand the majority religion being practised in your host country, especially if it is one you are largely unfamiliar with. It is a good idea to research religion in your host country before you go abroad. Maybe you’re used to being part of the religious majority at home, but will be part of the religious minority abroad. If you are planning to practise your religion abroad, ask locals or your host institution staff where you can worship.

You’ll also want to find out what degree of religious tolerance there is in your host country. As an example, since 2004, French law states that ‘conspicuous signs’ of religious belonging are banned in state schools, which goes for pupils and staff alike, as well as at university. Many support networks exist, including the ‘Etudiants Musulmans de France’ (EMF) and the ‘Ligue Nationale des Musulmans de France’ (LNMF), who help bring mutual understanding and awareness of more traditional Muslim practices in Higher Education.

Things to consider:

• What is the dominant religion in my host country?
• Will I be part of the religious majority or minority abroad?
• Are there any laws regarding religion? Is there a separation between religion and government?
• How tolerant is the host country of other religions? What about atheists and agnostics?
• Is it safe for me to wear religious symbols or clothing?
• What are ways I can respect the religion in my host country and participate in cultural events, even if I don’t practise that religion?

Useful websites: https://www.diversityabroad.com/article/religiousdiversity-abroad

Gender

Take into account local attitudes towards dress and behaviour, perhaps particularly so if you are female. Be sensible and realistic about whether you should walk anywhere alone at night, or how it will be perceived.

Sexuality and LGBTQ+ Students

Different countries and cultures can have varying laws, social norms, and attitudes towards sexual orientation and gender identity. Expressing your sexuality in an unfamiliar society requires sensitivity and an awareness that Western attitudes are not necessarily acceptable everywhere. Take your cue from the behaviour of local residents, and consider the following:

• How would public displays of affection particularly between same-sex couples, such as kissing or holding hands, be perceived in your host country?
• Are there any laws affecting sexual activity in any of the countries to which you are travelling? Singapore, for example, criminalises consensual private adult homosexual acts, as well as some heterosexual sex.
• What are the LGBTQ+ legal rights (both past and present) in your host country?Are there any active protections against discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity? Check www.qrd.org/qrd/orgs/glb.campus.worldwide for an international listing of student LGB organisations, and www.fridae.asia is a specific LGBT portal for the whole of East Asia.
• Is there an active LGBTQ+ community in the location of my placement?
• Does the host university provide gender inclusive facilities, i.e. genderneutral bathrooms or LGBTQ+ friendly housing?
• Is it safe to be transgender in my host country?
• Will it be safe for me to come out whilst I am abroad?
  
  Useful websites:
• https://www.gov.uk/guidance/lesbian-gay-bisexualand-transgender-foreign-travel-advice
• https://ilga.org/maps-sexual-orientation-laws
• https://ilga.org/state-sponsored-homophobia-report
• https://www.stonewall.org.uk/global-workplace-briefings

It is wise to observe the manners and behaviour of local residents, be sensitive to local customs, and express yourself appropriately and respectfully. Make sure that you investigate and abide by any relevant laws and legislation for your destination country.