Abstract

ABSTRACT:

Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer (LGBTQ) people have achieved victories in obtaining equal rights in some countries, but most states deny these rights and actively discriminate against LGBTQ people. This research presents one of the first attempts to assess cross-nationally discrimination against LGBTQ people through a discrimination index comprised of three components: criminalization and punishment of homosexuality, rights denied to LGBTQ people, and the level of intolerance that LGBTQ people face. Spanning 175 countries, the index shows that most states have high levels of discrimination, which not only prevent LGBTQ people from attaining equal rights, but also threatens their well-being.

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