Out on the Inside. The Rights, Experiences and Needs of LGBT People in Prison
Irish Penal Reform Trust Research Report ISBN: 978-0-9573037-7-5
Posted: 18 Feb 2016
Date Written: February 02, 2016
Abstract
Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) people have long represented a ‘hidden’ or overlooked population in prisons, both in Ireland and internationally. In recent years international research and policy has begun to focus on the experiences and needs of this group of prisoners. This research, as summarised by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC, 2009) has revealed a range of issues that affect LGBT individuals in prison, including the effects of homophobia and transphobia both within and outside prison, the threat of physical and sexual violence within prison, the existence of institutional discrimination and neglect, health needs, and social isolation.
This report represents the first study of the needs and experiences of LGBT prisoners within the Irish context. The themes raised are placed within the context of a review of international literature and policy, although the limitations of transferability are noted.
Keywords: LGBT, Prisoners
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