The 2024 report by the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA), 'LGBTIQ Equality at a Crossroads: Progress and Challenges', shows that one in two of LGBTIQ+ individuals avoid holding hands with their same-sex partners in public, one in two experience harassment, two in three are bullied at school, and one in three have had suicidal thoughts linked to violence, harassment, or bullying. These statistics highlight the ongoing barriers faced by LGBTIQ+ individuals, even in countries with strong legal frameworks like Malta.
Indeed, while Malta has consistently ranked first on the Rainbow Europe Map by ILGAEurope for ten consecutive years reflecting strong legal protections and social progress, the FRA report highlights that challenges remain. A Maltese participant said, "While this country is on paper very friendly towards LGBT+ people, I have witnessed colleagues, classmates, lecturers, priests and relatives constantly discriminate against LGBT+ people" (Malta, asexual non-binary, age 19).
These insights echo the findings of the National Commission for the Promotion of
Equality (NCPE)'s 2022 study, 'Qualitative Research Study on LGBTIQ+ Discrimination', which analysed experiences in employment, access to goods and services, and social relationships. The study focused on sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, and sex characteristics, building on research conducted by the NCPE in 2011.
The NCPE's study revealed persistent challenges. Participants reported difficulties identifying discrimination during recruitment, experiences of stigmatisation in schools (particularly for trans students), and heteronormative assumptions in the housing sector. Coming out to family members was easier for some but others met with resistance.
Social stigma, transphobia, and homophobic stereotypes remain prevalent, often amplified by social media. Many participants avoid reporting discrimination to authorities, relying instead on NGOs or trusted individuals, with police intervention considered only in serious cases. Nonetheless, participants noted that acceptance of the LGBTIQ+ community has improved compared to the past.
Further efforts are needed to ensure that equality is fully achieved in practice. In this regard, Malta hosted the IDAHOT+ Forum and Experts' Meetings as part of its Council of Europe Presidency, drawing international attention to LGBTIQ+ rights and equality.
Specific measures are also outlined in the third National Strategy and Action Plan for LGBTIQ+ (2023-2027), covering areas such as health, policing, asylum, and employment-sectors where LGBTIQ+ individuals continue to face discrimination or unfair treatment.
However, additional work is required, particularly through an intersectional approach. Intersectionality is central to the NCPE's approach, acknowledging that discrimination is often compounded by factors including gender, age, race and socioeconomic status.
The study emphasises the need for further research to understand the experiences of LGBTIQ+ women, older LGBTIQ+ individuals, those with lower educational attainment, and intra-community dynamics to identify the diverse needs within the LGBTIQ+ community.
The NCPE actively investigates complaints of discrimination based on gender identity, gender expression, or sex characteristics in employment, banking and financial institutions, and education. Beyond complaints, the NCPE promotes awareness through campaigns and provides training to challenge stereotypes and promote equality. Individuals experiencing discrimination are encouraged to contact the NCPE to safeguard their rights.
Advancing LGBTIQ+ equality remains an ongoing effort. Policymakers must continue strengthening inclusion and supporting LGBTIQ+ rights, while individuals are urged to report cases of discrimination.
Through legislation, research, awareness, and enforcement, the NCPE remains committed to fostering a society in which all LGBTIQ+ individuals are respected, safe and able to fully participate in social, economic and cultural life.