4 Impact on the daily lives of stateless persons The basic survival strategies of most stateless persons interviewed in the study revolved around finding ways to support themselves and find housing. Other aspirations became secondary. Starting a family was being postponed and other needs also remained unmet. Those persons who have long been exposed to an irregular situation believed that they have wasted their best years living in uncertainty with no effective help. They perceived their situation to be unfair. Those stateless persons who found themselves in an irregular residence situation felt hopeless. The loss of their residence status brought with it restrictions on many aspects of their lives. It closed the door to the job market, resulted in the loss of a stable source of income which ultimately worsened the housing situation. Stateless persons lacking assistance networks often became dependent on irregular forms of employment, lived in temporary housing situations and many ended up homeless. 5 Impact of statelessness on private and family life and identity The effects of the aforementioned issues are reflected in tensions in relationships, a decision made to not start a family, worries and a life led in fear with limited options to plan for the future. Statelessness is particularly stressful for parents who see it as a plight of the entire family that has a major impact on children’s lives. The fact that a person is stateless also represents a barrier to forming social relationships and making friends. Some persons interviewed during the research perceived their status as a stigma, they avoid talking to others and from explaining their situation. The consequences of statelessness and the associated unstable legal status also included a considerable psychological burden. Participants described their suffering from stress, anxiety and other symptoms that indicated the presence of untreated health problems. Longterm exposure to this situation often adversely impacted the selfperception and identity of stateless persons. They expressed feelings of exclusion, marginalisation, invisibility and an absence of support in life. They were aware of the practical impossibility of exercising their rights and felt frustrated by a situation they cannot resolve. 50 Faces of Statelessness in the Czech Republic