LGBTI+ people are one of the largest minority groups in the workforce, and at the same time one of the least studied. International and EU-level studies point to significant levels of discrimination against LGBTI+ workers, and show that anti-discrimination legislation, where it exists, is not enforced effectively. LGBTI+ workers may be denied their employment rights, and they face high levels of discrimination as well as verbal and other harassment at work.
The project aims to support the inclusion of LGBTI+ citizens in employment and the workplace by establishing a body at national level to collect data on the socio-economic challenges this community faces in Serbia, particularly in recruitment and the workplace. The project will also produce guidance on alternative mechanisms for protecting the socio-economic rights of LGBTI+ citizens through the active involvement of private sector employers.
In order to understand the situation of LGBTI+ people in the labour market and the factors that shape it, the project will develop a methodological framework for analysing their situation. Both qualitative and quantitative research will be carried out. Alongside LGBTI+ people, companies will also take part, since the aim is to assess progress in workplace diversity policies and measures, identify factors that support or hinder their implementation, and document practical experience.
The project was carried out by IDEAS in partnership with Gej lezbejski info centar, XY spektar and Erga Omnes.
Read our research: Dignity at Work: research on the situation of LGBTI+ people in employment and the workplace