Today is IDAHOBIT- International Day Against LGBTQIA+ Discrimination
Yes, we have days, weeks and months- pride has actually grown into an internationally travelling demonstration that starts in February in New Zealand, has its high in June in the US and might end in September in Dortmund, Germany.
May 17 marks the date in 1990 that homosexuality was removed from the WHO Classification of Diseases. Over three decades later, LGBTQIA+ communities still face discrimination – the stakes have never been higher to champion inclusion.
The European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA) survey, one of the biggest of its kind globally, reveals ongoing struggles for LGBTIQ equality. Read the STUDY’s most important findings here:
More LGBTIQ people in Europe are now open about who they are. At the same time, they face more violence, harassment, and bullying than before. This is especially true for younger LGBTIQ people, who are particularly vulnerable. These are some of the findings of the latest survey of the EU Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA), based on responses from more than 100,000 LGBTIQ people across Europe.
The findings reveal signs of slow but gradual progress. While discrimination against LGBTIQ people remains high, it is gradually declining. Schools deal with LGBTIQ issues more positively and proactively, and young people feel more supported by their teachers and peers. Nevertheless, bullying, harassment and violence have reached high levels.
The report also highlights that the experiences of LGBTIQ people vary significantly across the EU and every group faces different challenges.
Intersex, trans, non-binary and gender diverse people face more harassment and violence. They are more likely to face mental health issues and have suicidal thoughts. They are also more likely to experience homelessness and struggle to access medical care. This is also true for LGBTIQ people with disabilities, in financial hardship or members of ethnic, racial or other minority groups.
The survey findings will support the European Commission to evaluate its LGBTIQ Equality Strategy and help advance policies to protect and promote the fundamental rights of LGBTIQ people. FRA calls on governments to take action.
Quote from FRA Director Sirpa Rautio:
“Being openly LGBTIQ in Europe should not be a struggle. Even though we see signs of progress, bullying, harassment and violence remain constant threats. It is time to act decisively and build on the progress we have made, so everyone in the EU is treated equally and can live with dignity and respect.”
Quote from Commissioner for Equality Helena Dalli:
“FRA’s survey findings provide invaluable data on the lived experiences of LGBTIQ people across Europe. They help us identify the progress we have achieved and highlight the challenges that still lie ahead. I encourage all Member States to use the data to deliver robust policies to counter discrimination and protect the rights of all LGBTIQ people.”
What can you do?
- Stop hate & violence against LGBTQIA+ people
- Speak up– your silence makes a difference
- Be an ally and support LGBTQIA+ people
- VOTE! Especially with a record number of elections this year we need you to defend the progress we have made and continue the path to equality
- Champion inclusion and be part of a community that celebrates diversity
Your action is needed
