LGBTQIA+ communities worldwide: A Literature Review

• In Event: Poster Session

Abstract

The situation for the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual, and other individuals identifying with a different sexual orientation (LGBTQIA+) worldwide includes a large divide in public and governmental opinions on acceptance. Although over the past two decades much progress has been made in this regard, some regions in the world remain resistant to the changes and acceptance of homosexuality and the LGBTQIA+ community. Additionally, where some more accepting parts of the world have significantly begun research on this topic, others, such as countries in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) regions, have largely disregarded this vulnerable population in terms of research and basic human rights. Specifically, individuals of the LGBTQIA+ community have faced incidences of abuse and torture by authorities, entrapment, and some have laws in place that criminalize the LGBTQIA+ community and face systemic discrimination, forcing them to leave their home countries. This systematic view of the literature aims at delineating the extent to which the LGBTQIA+ communities worldwide still face discrimination, with particular attention being drawn to the MENA region. This first step will in turn allow for further studies to be conducted to better inform policies and initiatives.

Authors

• Ghady Hbeilini, Sam Houston State University

• Shelly Clevenger, Sam Houston State University