The launch of a comprehensive research survey aimed at identifying the strengths and weaknesses within Gozitan society regarding LGBTQIA+ realities, has been launched by LGBTI+ Gozo.

The organisation said that this initiative will guide the organisation’s efforts during the 2025-2028 term and inform a robust regional strategy tailored to the “unique needs” of the LGBTQIA+ community in Gozo.

This survey is the second of its kind emerging from LGBTI+ Gozo, who published their first survey in 2022. However, the organisation said it aims to go a step further by using the data garnered to inform policy and create a strategy for Gozo to “continue its drive for inclusivity.”

The organisation highlighted that “here in Gozo, people still encounter stigma and discrimination in different sectors of everyday life, from education to the workplace, to medical treatment and access to services.”

It added that “LGBTIQ+ people in Gozo face unique challenges and mentalities, and this research survey aims to understand what we as a collective society can do to foster a future that accepts all people regardless of their identities.”

“We hope for the findings which emerge from this survey to empower not just LGBTI+ Gozo but other relevant stakeholders and service providers to design services and initiatives that address these challenges while promoting inclusivity, equity, and well-being for the LGBTQIA+ community in Gozo,” said the organisation.

In addition to the survey, LGBTI+ Gozo said that it will consult with stakeholders and service providers and hold focus groups across key sectors such as health, education, and legal services. “These semi-structured interviews and focus groups will help identify gaps within societal structures and policies to ensure sustainable and equitable services for LGBTQIA+ people.”

LGBTI+ Gozo said that it will also invite the general Gozitan public to join a focus group to gain community feedback and hear directly from Gozitans across orientations about these issues. Focus groups for professionals will be held on Saturday March the 15th and April the 5th, at 4pm at the Government Farm Main Hall in Xewkija Gozo. Professionals who wish to take part in the focus groups can register here.

This research will provide LGBTI+ Gozo, civil society, and policy makers with a clearer understanding of the realities faced by LGBTQIA+ individuals in Gozo and Malta, the organisation said. “Our aim is to create meaningful, targeted solutions that foster inclusivity and ensure every individual feels valued, supported, and safe. This strategy will outline actionable steps to improve the quality of life and opportunities available to LGBTQIA+ individuals in Gozo while fostering collaboration between various entities and service providers.”

“This research also aims to promote Gozitan LGBTQIA+ visibility – so often, Gozo is not included in the public discourse and the wider community faces the repercussions of such lack of representation, such as limited services or opportunities” said the organisation. “This survey and subsequent regional strategy aims to foster Gozitan representation and provide a voice for LGBTQIA+ people in Gozo.”

LGBTI+ Gozo encouraged everyone, “regardless of orientation or identity, to participate in the survey. Everyone’s voice matters and by sharing your perspective, you are contributing to a future where inclusivity and equity are at the forefront of our society.” Participation in the survey is completely anonymous and can be accessed through this Google form here.

It explained that the survey takes approximately 20 minutes and “every response supports our efforts in helping Gozo become more inclusive. If you are a service provider in the health, education, or legal sector and would like to participate in an hour long focus group about LGBTQIA+ realities in your sector, please get in contact through the email address below.

This project is being supported by the Human Rights Directorate

For more information about the survey, the regional strategy, or LGBTI+ Gozo’s ongoing efforts, please contact lgbtigozo@gmail.com

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