LGBTI+ is at the forefront of a three-year action strategy in Ireland to improve the lives of LGBTI+ young people, and to understand the challenges they face today.
a global leader in LGBTI+ RIGHTS
In 2015, Ireland was the first country in the world to pass marriage equality by popular vote. Minister Zappone had advocated for this for many years. 2015 also saw the passing of the Gender Recognition Act. Such events have made Ireland a global leader in LGBTI+ rights. However, while legislative progress is welcome, it is also important to ensure the lived experiences of LGBTI+ young people reflect these developments.
CREATING VISIBILITY, VALUE, and inclusion
The LGBTI+ National Youth Strategy 2018-2020 is a first for Ireland, and the world, and is informed by the views of thousands of young people. The strategy's Youth Advisory Group, which consists of 14 committed young people who contributed to the development of the strategy, also created a youth-friendly video about the strategy. This is a three-year action-oriented strategy, and its mission is to ensure that all LGBTI+ young people are visible, valued, and included. The strategy guarantees a cross-governmental approach to put additional measures in place to further enhance the lives of LGBTI+ young people and address some of the key challenges they may face as part of their day-to-day lives. It will make a significant contribution towards the Government's broader commitment to continue to strive for the full inclusion of LGBTI+ people in Irish society and to build a more inclusive Ireland.
SAFETY, MENTAL HEALTH, RESEARCH
The strategy revolves around three main goals: 1. Create a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment for LGBTI+ young people; 2. Improve the mental, physical, and sexual health, as well as the wellbeing, of the entire LGBTI+ community; 3. Develop the research and data environment to better understand the lives of LGBTI+ young people. Stakeholder engagement was central to the development of this strategy. In addition to the extensive youth engagement, Minister Zappone established an Oversight Committee with representatives from government departments and agencies, LGBTI+ organisations, young people, and others with relevant expertise. Furthermore, 34 organisations and individuals made written submissions following a widely advertised open call.
