The term 'Gayropa' is used by Russian authorities to derogatively refer to Europe's acceptance of LGBTQ individuals. The article profiles several LGBTQ asylum seekers in Europe, highlighting their struggles and triumphs. Faris from Ethiopia, now in Vienna, advocates for sexual minorities. Bella, a transgender woman from Turkey, is seeking asylum in Sweden. Igor and Sergi from Ukraine received asylum in France. Wael, an intersex transgender man from Morocco, is undergoing transition in Norway. Hamoudi, from Raqqa, Syria, works in Berlin to rebuild civil society in his hometown. The experiences of these individuals underscore the varying policies and challenges faced by LGBTQ asylum seekers in Europe.

Over two million people have fled Ukraine to Poland following the Russian invasion on February 24. Despite cold temperatures, a massive influx of refugees, mostly women and children, are arriving in Poland by various means. This event marks Europe's fastest and largest refugee intake since World War II, with the U.N. Refugee Agency estimating up to 4 million may flee. Volunteers across Europe are assisting arrivals with necessities and guidance, contrasting the harsh treatment of migrants from Belarus earlier in the year. Non-Ukrainian citizens in Ukraine also face discrimination during evacuation. Przemyśl train station has become a hub for refugees to access trains to larger Polish cities and further into the EU, offering a moment of relief amidst the chaos.

The annual camel-wrestling festival in Selcuk, Turkey, is a vibrant event filled with socializing, drinking, and camel matches. Camels wrestle to win by making their opponent scream, fall, or retreat, with trainers ensuring no harm comes to the animals. The festival, rooted in ancient Turkic traditions, has faced criticism from animal rights activists but remains a niche cultural expression in modern Turkey. The author, a former camel owner, shares a personal anecdote about buying and eventually selling a camel named Alfie in Syria.

Greece marked its 200th independence anniversary with tight security and a flyover in Athens, attended by international dignitaries. The celebration commemorated the end of nearly 400 years of Ottoman rule, which led to Greek statehood in 1832 with the support of European powers. Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, along with leaders and representatives from Russia, Britain, France, and the United States, honored the historical event and the 'Philhellenics' who fought for freedom. The US and France expressed continued support for Greece amidst its tensions with Turkey. The article also reflects on the contributions of notable 'Philhellenists' like Lord Byron and the cultural impact of Classical Greece.

Bradley Secker, a photojournalist, presents a series of profiles of LGBTQ individuals from various countries who have sought or received asylum in Europe due to their sexual orientation or gender identity. The term 'Gayropa' is used by Russian authorities to pejoratively refer to Europe's acceptance of LGBTQ rights. The article highlights the challenges faced by these asylum seekers, including different requirements across the EU and sometimes humiliating treatment by asylum officers. Personal stories from Ethiopia, Turkey, Ukraine, Morocco, and Syria illustrate the diverse experiences and resilience of these individuals as they navigate life in new countries.