Sexual Orientation Discrimination in Slovenia

A Report by SKUC-LL, Metelkova 6, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia

Table of Contents

Appendix 1: Questionnaire survey results
Appendix 2: Recommendations for the Slovenian Government

1. Introduction

"I was told by an acquaintance: ‘People like you should be imprisoned in the zoo or killed.’"

"We don’t dare do what everyone else does. We are not allowed to show that we are gay. We can’t hold each other’s hand in the street or kiss in public. We can’t risk being spontaneous, but have to hide instead."

"Someone has to tell Slovenian parents that it can happen in every family that a child is gay. My boyfriend killed himself because of the problems within his family, who refused to accept the fact that he was gay."

These statements provide a strong sense of how homophobic attitudes can overshadow the lives of lesbian, gay and bisexual people in Slovenia today. Such statements represent a mere sample of the numerous responses to a questionnaire survey that sought to conduct initial research into the nature and extent of sexual orientation discrimination in Slovenia. The survey was carried out by the lesbian group SKUC-LL and represents one of four investigations conducted in EU candidate countries (the other studies are based in Hungary, Poland and Romania). The investigation was performed in coordination with ILGA-Europe the European Region of the International Lesbian and Gay Association and was funded by the Open Society Institute in Budapest.

The central purpose of this report is to call attention to the extent of sexual orientation discrimination in Slovenia, and to increase the awareness of those actors who can most effectively combat such discrimination. In particular, these actors are the Slovenian government, the Slovenian parliament and institutions of the European Union.

The survey addressed the issues of (1) violence and harassment and (2) discrimination in employment, health care services, housing and military service. Full details of questionnaire results are provided in the Appendix to this report.

The survey was conducted from JanuaryMarch 2001. During this period, 172 persons completed the questionnaire. Respondents were primarily those individuals who regularly frequent openly lesbian and gay meeting places in Ljubljana or who are indirectly connected with lesbian, gay and bisexual organisations (e.g., through personal contacts or correspondence). The questionnaires were distributed in the lesbian bar Monokel, the gay bar Tiffany, and the Metelkova Cultural Centre in Ljubljana. The questionnaire was also distributed to members of SKUC-LL as well as the youth group Legebitra, and was made available on the website www.ljudmila.org/siqrd.

A survey of this type does not purport to produce results that are statistically valid for the entire target population, as would be the case with a random sample. Nonetheless, the survey results provide valuable information and permit certain broad conclusions to be drawn about the nature and extent of sexual orientation discrimination in Slovenia.

In considering any findings, allowance must be made for two important factors:

· Surveys that seek to quantify the extent of discrimination directed toward lesbian, gay and bisexual individuals confront a particular problem: unlike many other minorities that experience discrimination, most lesbian, gay and bisexual persons can conceal the aspect of their identity that is the target of discrimination, namely their sexual orientation. Thus any survey investigating sexual orientation discrimination is likely to understate the actual extent of discrimination.

· As noted above, the survey respondents consisted mainly of participants in Ljubljana’s openly lesbian and gay scene, as well as individuals connected with lesbian, gay and bisexual organisations in Slovenia. It is likely that this sample is atypical of the general lesbian, gay and bisexual population in Slovenia, since it includes a relatively high proportion of individuals who are politically aware and open about their sexual orientation.

The survey was coordinated by Tatjana Greif. Tomaž Bergoč (Varianta d.o.o.) conducted the statistical processing, and Nataöa Velikonja analysed the data and produced the final report. This report is being published in both Slovenian and English.

2. SUMMARY OF FINDINGS

The findings of this survey lead to the conclusion that there is a high level of discrimination against gay, lesbian and bisexual people in Slovenia. For example, one of every two respondents had experienced some form of violence or harassment because of their sexual orientation, and one in five had suffered harassment at the workplace. The survey findings also raise serious concerns about discriminatory behaviour in the police force, in the health service, and in the military, and the difficulties faced by open lesbians and gays in finding housing.

However, it is highly probable that these findings seriously understate the scale of the problem, due to the above-mentioned fact that many lesbian, gay and bisexual individuals seek to avoid discrimination by concealing their sexual orientation. The potential magnitude of this factor is revealed when one compares the number of incidents of workplace harassment with the number of respondents who stated that they are open to their co-workers and superiors about their sexual orientation. On the basis of this comparison, the proportion of those harassed rises from 20% to 70%.

Thus it is impossible for the survey to measure precisely the extent of sexual orientation discrimination in Slovenia. However, this is unnecessary for determining whether action is needed. It is clear from the survey results that:

The overall level of discrimination in Slovenia is shocking and entirely unacceptable.
Acts of discrimination, and the potential for discrimination, have profound and negative consequences on the lives of lesbian, gay and bisexual individuals in Slovenia.

The fact that one in three respondents would seriously consider emigrating from Slovenia because of their sexual orientation dramatically underscores the damaging effect of discrimination on the lives of lesbians, gays and bisexuals in present-day Slovenia.

3. RECOMMENDATIONS

The Slovenian Government

Slovenia has legal prohibitions on sexual orientation discrimination.

Slovenia also has a human rights Ombudsman. For several years the Ombudsman and his Office refused to acknowledge discrimination against lesbians and gays and to take up individual cases. In 2001 a new Ombudsman was appointed. His statements have been much more supportive than those of his predecessor, but this has yet to be reflected in any action. The Government should confirm that the Ombudsman has a duty to exercise his powers in relation to the human rights of lesbian, gay and bisexual people.

Anti-discrimination laws, and an effective human rights Ombudsman are valuable first steps in the fight against discrimination. However, this survey demonstrates clearly that such measures are not sufficient in themselves to create a society in which lesbians, gays and bisexuals can live free from discrimination. Broad ranging government action is required.

The Slovenian government should make a public commitment to promoting the inclusion and participation of lesbian, gay and bisexual persons in society, and combating their exclusion. This commitment should be implemented by means of a detailed strategy which should be developed in consultation with lesbian, gay and bisexual community organisations. It should include measures in, amongst others, the education system, the police, health service, and the armed forces, designed specifically to address the types of discrimination identified in this survey. Appendix 2 sets out in more detail some of the measures which need to be adopted.

The government should also act to remove a major area of discrimination, the lack of legal recognition for same-sex relationships.

The European Union

The European Commission should, in its annual report on Slovenia's progress towards accession, monitor its progress in tackling discrimination against its lesbian, gay and bisexual citizens, against the recommendations set out above.

The European Parliament, the Council of Ministers, and the national parliaments of the Member States should make it clear that they will not accept Slovenia as a member of the European Union until:

a. The Slovenian Government has adopted a broad ranging anti-discrimination programme of the type set out in Appendix 2 and

b. Has demonstrated its commitment to implementing such a programme.

4. SCOPE OF THE SURVEY

The questionnaire was divided into six sets of questions addressing issues that are of particular concern in relation to sexual orientation discrimination. The survey attempted to ascertain whether respondents had actually experienced discrimination in these issue areas, to what degree, and how they had experienced it. The survey also asked respondents to identify the aspects of discrimination that most significantly affected their lives.

The six issues addressed were:

· Violence and harassment on the basis of sexual orientation

· Employment

· Health care services

· Housing

· Military service

· Other issues (same-sex partnerships, emigration, respondents’ perception of the most significant aspects of discrimination)

5. DEMOGRAPHIC DATA

The survey included data on the sex, age and educational level of the respondents.

43.6% of the 172 respondents were women, 52.9% were men, and 3.5% provided no information on their sex.

The questionnaire asked respondents to indicate whether they were over or under 25 years of age, the view being that greater detail would not significantly add to the findings. 40.7% of respondents indicated that they were under 25, 42.4% stated that they were over 25, and 16.9% provided no information.

Respondents’ level of education was also divided into two categories: those who had completed primary or secondary school (50.6%) and those who had completed a university education (45.9%). The high proportion of respondents possessing a university education is an additional factor indicating that the survey sample is atypical of Slovenia’s general lesbian, gay and bisexual population.

6. VIOLENCE AND HARASSMENT (QUESTIONS A1-A6)

The first set of questions addressed the issue of violence and harassment directed toward lesbian, gay and bisexual individuals in Slovenia. The elimination of these problems is a top priority of the Slovenian lesbian/gay movement in its struggle against homophobia.

Despite the fact that discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation is explicitly prohibited by Article 141 of the Slovenian Penal Code, the survey showed that 49.4% of respondents had experienced violence or harassment because of their sexual orientation(A1). Broken down according to age group, 64.4% of respondents over 25 years of age and 35.7% of respondents under 25 years of age had experienced violence or harassment. Viewed from the perspective of educational level, 62.0% of respondents holding university degrees and 37.9% of respondents who had completed only primary or secondary school had experienced violence or harassment. Three reasons can be suggested for these variances:

· Most obviously, older persons would have a longer period of time for accumulating experiences of discrimination.

· Older and more educated individuals may possess greater awareness of what constitutes harassment and discrimination, and may therefore be more likely to identify such incidents.

· Answers to another question (B1) suggested that respondents over 25 were more likely to be open about their sexual orientation, thus increasing their exposure to discrimination.

Among respondents who were victims of violence or harassment, 60% had experienced more than one incident of violence or harassment (A2). Again, individuals over 25 years of age and persons with a university education were more likely to have experienced more than one incident of violence or harassment. It is noteworthy that a higher proportion of lesbians than gay men had experienced violence or harassment. Furthermore, a higher proportion of lesbians than gay men had experienced more than one such incident. These findings call into question the commonly held view that lesbians enjoy greater tolerance, and are less subject to discrimination, than gay men.

The most frequent forms of violence or harassment identified by respondents were insults, violent attack and harassment (A3). Gay men were more often the victims of violent attacks, while women were more likely to experience harassment and insults. Some respondents also named other forms of harassment they had experienced, including malicious gossip, hate speech, derisive remarks and being spat on.

Those most commonly cited as perpetrators of acts of violence or harassment were strangers (27%), acquaintances (25%), co-workers (18%) and family members (14%) (A4). For lesbians, the primary perpetrators were acquaintances (30%), family members (20%), co-workers (18%) and strangers (18%); for gay men, the main perpetrators were strangers (35%), acquaintances (20%) and co-workers (17%). Police officers were involved in 4% of cases reported. Other perpetrators mentioned by respondents included street gangs (all reported by gay men) and classmates.

It is perhaps unsurprising that the largest category of perpetrator is "strangers." However, it is disturbing that such a high proportion of perpetrators was known to the victim as acquaintances, co-workers or family members.

Only one in ten of those who experienced violence or harassment reported the incident to the police (A5). A possible explanation for this low figure is that victims may not always consider the incident sufficiently serious to involve the police. Even allowing for this possibility, the percentage of incidents reported appears to be quite low and includes less than half the number of violent incidents reported.

Police reactions to these complaints are disturbing: law enforcement officials responded supportively in only 30% of the incidents reported (A6), while their reaction was actually hostile in three other reported cases. This hostility on the part of police officers is consistent with the above-cited reports of law enforcement officials as perpetrators of harassment (see A4).

7. EMPLOYMENT (QUESTIONS B1-B6)

Openness about Sexual Orientation in the Workplace (B1)

Only 28.5% of respondents stated that they were definitely "out" as lesbian, gay or bisexual to their co-workers or superiors in the workplace. A further 23.3% suspected that their co-workers or supervisors might be aware of their sexual orientation. Finally, 37.8% of all respondents concealed their sexual orientation at their places of employment. These figures are crucial for understanding the overall extent of discrimination that is implied by the responses to other questions dealing with employment.

Analysed by age group, very different patterns emerge for those over and under 25: of those over 25, 43.8% were definitely "out" as lesbian, gay or bisexual to their co-workers or superiors, while an additional 28.8% suspected that their sexual orientation was known. For those under 25, the equivalent figures were much lower, at 12.9% and 20% respectively.

Education also influenced openness at work: 35% of those with university degrees reported being open about their sexual orientation at work, compared to 24% of those with primary or secondary education.

The proportion of respondents definitely known to be lesbian, gay or bisexual by their co-workers or superiors is unlikely to be typical for the lesbian, gay and bisexual population as a whole. This figure is almost certainly influenced by the fact that the survey sample was drawn from a group of people who are relatively politically aware and open about their sexual orientation.

Harassment in the Workplace because of Sexual Orientation (B2)

20% of all respondents had experienced harassment at the workplace. This is a serious enough statistic in and of itself. But this figure rises to 40% of those whose sexual orientation was known, or thought to be known, and 70% of those whose sexual orientation was definitely known in the workplace.

Women had experienced slightly more harassment at work than men, while those over 25 had experienced significantly more harassment than those under 25. The latter statistic reflects two factors:

· The greater openness of those over 25 about their sexual orientation (see above).

· The longer employment history of respondents over 25, which therefore increased exposure to the possibility of harassment.

The most frequent forms of harassment or violence reported were offensive remarks, mockery, and sexual harassment (the same percentage among both men and women) (B3). One case of physical violence was also reported.

Dismissal (B4)

2.9% of respondents reported that they had been dismissed from a job because of their sexual orientation, while a further 2.3% suspected that they had been dismissed for this reason. These figures are very high: those who reported that they had definitely been dismissed because of their sexual orientation represent 10% of those whose sexual orientation was definitely known. Similarly, the total of those definitely dismissed or who suspected dismissal is equivalent to 10% of those whose sexual orientation was known or suspected to be known.

Applying for Employment (B5)

The next question asked respondents whether they had ever experienced discrimination when applying for a job. 7% reported that they had experienced such discrimination, while a further 7% suspected that they had. The questionnaire did not establish how many respondents were open about their sexual orientation when applying for employment. However, the effect of this factor can be estimated by comparing the number of discriminatory incidents while applying for employment with the number of respondents who were open about their sexual orientation in their current positions (28.5%). If they were as open about their sexual orientation when applying for employment as they are in their current jobs and this is unlikely the proportion experiencing discrimination during the job application process would have been 25%, while the proportion which suspected that they had been the victims of such discrimination would have represented an additional 25%.

Promotion (B6)

14.5% of all respondents reported that they had been denied promotion because of their sexual orientation, while a further 14% suspected this to be the case. Thus, the proportion of all respondents denied promotion, or who suspected such treatment, was identical to the percentage of respondents who were open about their sexual orientation in the workplace (28.5%). This is a powerful indication of the risk real or perceived of revealing one’s sexual orientation at work.

8. HEALTH CARE SERVICES (C1-C3)

7.6% of respondents reported that they had experienced discrimination in health care services (C1). Levels of discrimination were similar among women and men as well as among the two age groups. Lesbian respondents mentioned the following examples: negative attitudes among gynecologists, explicit insults, and derisive treatment by medical personnel. In one case, a doctor suggested that the respondent undergo an HIV test prior to surgery because she was a lesbian. In another case, a doctor insisted on contraceptive measures although the respondent had informed the gynecologist that she had sexual relations only with women.

In addition to the above forms of discrimination or harassment, male respondents cited abusive language as well as discrimination with regard to blood donation. One gay man abandoned group therapy treatment because of the negative attitude of the doctor. He was not allowed to bring his partner to particular events, although heterosexual participants were allowed to do so. The doctor also commented that he did not want a "homosexual atmosphere" in the group.

7% of respondents had been advised to undergo psychiatric treatment because of their homosexuality (C3). There was little difference in the response rate according to age group. It is a matter of considerable concern that some members of the medical profession in Slovenia still view psychiatric treatment as an appropriate response to homosexuality.

9. HOUSING (D1-D2)

7% of respondents reported that they had experienced discrimination or harassment in the area of housing. Examples included:

· a landlord letting a flat to another applicant when the respondent told him that she was a lesbian;

· a landlord who let a flat to a heterosexual couple rather than to "a pair of girls;"

· students afraid to share accommodation with a lesbian;

· a gay male student feeling compelled to conceal his sexual orientation from his roommates.

10. MILITARY SERVICE (E1-E2)

11% of male respondents reported experiencing sexual orientation discrimination during military service. Examples included:

· dismissal from the military;

· being regarded as unfit for military service;

· being referred for psychiatric treatment.

One respondent was excused from military service at his own request.

11. OTHER ISSUES (F1-F3)

Legal Recognition of Same-Sex Relationships (F1)

An important aspect of discrimination in Slovenia is the absence of any form of legal recognition for same-sex partnerships. Respondents to the questionnaire were asked whether they would register their partnership if this were legally permitted. An overwhelming majority 73.9% replied in the affirmative. The level of affirmative response was similar regardless of the sex, age or educational level of the respondents.

Emigration as a Response to Discrimination (F2)

Respondents were asked whether sexual orientation would play a significant role in any decision to emigrate from Slovenia. More than one in three respondents replied in the affirmative. This striking figure illustrates the damaging effect that sexual orientation discrimination has on the lives of lesbian, gay and bisexual individuals. Furthermore, it underscores the urgent need for Slovenian authorities to take decisive action to combat discrimination and to make their country one in which all citizens can live in safety and equality, regardless of their sexual orientation.

Open-ended Question on the Most Significant Aspects of Sexual Orientation Discrimination (F3)

The questionnaire concluded with a general, open-ended question: What aspect of the violation of the human rights of lesbian, gay and bisexual individuals do you find most significant and problematic?

Responses provided by lesbians included ignorance, lack of understanding, the pretence of ignorance, the assumption of heterosexuality as the norm, stereotypes, intolerance, discrimination in the fields of marriage and adoption, discrimination in education, employment and housing, the necessity to stay "in the closet" to avoid difficulties in everyday life, invisibility and silence, helplessness, humiliation, media representation of homosexuality, and lack of interest among the general public. Gay men provided similar answers while attributing more weight to legal discrimination.

The wide range of responses provides a powerful sense of the multifaceted ways in which discrimination and homophobia affect the lives of lesbian, gay and bisexual individuals. One particular response brought home just how profound the effects of this discrimination can be: one gay man reported that his partner had committed suicide because he could no longer deal with the problems brought about by his sexual orientation.

12. CONCLUSIONS

The findings of this survey lead to the conclusion that there is a high level of discrimination against lesbian, gay and bisexual individuals in Slovenia. No less than half of the respondents had experienced some form of violence or harassment because of their sexual orientation. In addition, 20% had suffered harassment at the workplace. Finally, approximately one in twelve had been referred for psychiatric treatment while a similar percentage had experienced problems within the areas of health care services and housing.

However, it is important to emphasise once again that these findings seriously understate the scale of the problem because of the fact that lesbian, gay and bisexual individuals are able to avoid discrimination by concealing their sexual orientation. Again, the extent of this factor can be estimated by comparing the level of workplace harassment with the number of respondents who are open to their co-workers and superiors about their sexual orientation, rather than with the total sample. On the basis of this comparison, the proportion of those harassed rises from 20% to 70%.

To repeat, the survey cannot precisely quantify the overall extent of sexual orientation discrimination in Slovenia. Nevertheless, such an exact measurement is unnecessary for determining whether action is needed. The survey demonstrates clearly that:

· The overall level of discrimination in Slovenia is shocking and entirely unacceptable.

· Acts of discrimination, and the potential for discrimination, have profound and negative consequences on the lives of lesbian, gay and bisexual individuals in Slovenia.

Most dramatically, the fact that one third of respondents seriously considered emigrating from Slovenia because of their sexual orientation starkly underscores the powerful effect that discrimination and homophobia have on the lives of lesbians, gays and bisexuals in contemporary Slovenia.

The survey covered a relatively balanced population in terms of sex, age and level of education. The fact that with few exceptions the level of discrimination experienced by these different groups was very similar underscores the pervasive nature of sexual orientation discrimination.

On the positive side, the survey results provide evidence that the lesbian, gay and bisexual community in Slovenia is no longer a passive recipient of violence and harassment. Although few individuals are currently willing to file complaints, the survey revealed a clear awareness of sexual orientation discrimination, as well as an understanding that such discrimination is neither self-evident nor to be tolerated. Many respondents viewed their experiences of discrimination within a broader context, including the general ineffectiveness of anti-discrimination provisions, discrimination due to the lack of legal recognition of same-sex partnerships, and exclusion from the enjoyment of basic human rights and freedoms. In these factors lies hope for the future: any failure by the state to introduce legislation and procedures to ensure equal rights for all its citizens including lesbian, gay and bisexual citizens will be challenged by an increasingly aware, powerful, and angry lesbian, gay and bisexual community.

Report by: Nataöa Velikonja

June 2001

APPENDIX 1

SEXUAL ORIENTATION DISCRIMINATION IN SLOVENIA

Survey/Research Report

Number of Respondents: 172

A. VIOLENCE AND HARRASSMENT

A1. Have you ever experienced violence or harassment because of your sexual orientation?

	*TOTAL* (%)	SEX		AGE		EDUCATION
	*TOTAL* (%)	MEN	WOMEN	UP TO 25	OVER 25	PRIMARY & SECONDARY	UNIVERSITY & MORE
YES	49.4	47.3	53.3	35.7	64.4	37.9	62.0
NO	48.8	52.7	44.0	62.9	34.2	60.9	35.4
NO ANSWER	1.7		2.7	1.4	1.4	1.1	2.5

Have you ever experienced violence or harassment because of your sexual orientation?

A2. If you answered "yes," how many times were you attacked/harassed?

* Answered only by those who experienced violence or harassment (No. = 85)	*TOTAL* (%)	*SEX*		*AGE*		*EDUCATION*
	*TOTAL* (%)	MEN	WOMEN	UNDER 25	OVER 25	PRIMARY & SECONDARY	UNIVERSITY & MORE
ONCE	*34.1*	39.5	27.5	36.0	31.9	36.4	30.6
MORE THAN ONCE	*60.0*	55.8	65.0	56.0	63.8	60.6	61.2
NO ANSWER	*5.9*	4.7	7.5	8.0	4.3	3.0	8.2

How many times were you attacked/harassed?

A3. What kind of violence or harassment was involved?

* Answered only by those who experienced violence or harassment (No .= 85)	*TOTAL* (NUMBER)	SEX
	*TOTAL* (NUMBER)	MEN	WOMEN
VIOLENT ATTACK	17	14	3
HARASSMENT	17	7	9
INSULTS	66	32	33
OTHER	12	3	9

A4. What was the identity of the attacker or harasser?

* Answered only by those who experienced violence or harassment (No. = 85)	*TOTAL* (NUMBER)	SEX
	*TOTAL* (NUMBER)	MEN	WOMEN
FAMILY MEMBER	16	5	11
CO-WORKER	20	9	10
ACQUAINTANCE	28	11	17
NEIGHBOUR	2	1	1
POLICE	4	2	2
OTHER*	42	26	15

* The largest single answer given for the category "Other" was "strangers," accounting for 30 of the perpetrators. The majority (19) were reported by gay men. Four incidents of attack or harassment by street gangs were also reported in this category all by gay men, as were three incidents involving classmates.

A5. Did you report the incident to the police?

* Answered only by those who experienced violence or harassment (No. = 85)	*TOTAL* (%)	SEX		AGE		EDUCATION
	*TOTAL* (%)	MEN	WOMEN	UNDER 25	OVER 25	PRIMARY& SECONDARY	UNIVERSITY & MORE
YES	*10.6*	14.0	7.5	12.0	8.5	15.2	8.2
NO	*85.9*	81.4	90.0	80.0	89.4	84.8	85.7
NO ANSWER	*3.5*	4.7	2.5	8.0	2.1	/	6.1

Did you report the incident to the police?

A6. If you reported the incident, how did the police react?

	NUMBER
SUPORTIVE	3
NEUTRAL	3
HOSTILE	3

B. EMPLOYMENT

B1. Do your co-workers or superiors at work know that you are gay, lesbian or bisexual?

	*TOTAL* (%)	SEX		AGE		EDUCATION
	*TOTAL* (%)	MEN	WOMEN	UNDER 25	OVER 25	PRIMARY & SECONDARY	UNIVERSITY & MORE
YES	*28.5*	30.8	28.0	12.9	43.8	24.1	35.4
NO	*37.8*	38.5	33.3	48.6	23.3	37.9	35.4
I SUSPECT SO	*23.3*	23.1	24.0	20.0	28.8	23.0	22.8
NO ANSWER	*10.5*	7.7	14.7	18.6	4.1	14.9	6.3

Do your co-workers or superiors at work know that you are gay, lesbian or bisexual?

B2. Have you experienced harassment at work because of your sexual orientation?

	*TOTAL* (%)	SEX		AGE		EDUCATION
	*TOTAL* (%)	MEN	WOMEN	UNDER 25	OVER 25	PRIMARY & SECONDARY	UNIVERSITY & MORE
YES	*20.3*	19.8	22.7	17.1	26.0	19.5	22.8
NO	*66.9*	69.2	62.7	74.3	60.3	71.3	59.5
I SUSPECT SO	*7.6*	6.6	8.0	1.4	11.0	4.6	11.4
NO ANSWER	*5.2*	4.4	6.7	7.1	2.7	4.6	6.3

Have you experienced harassment at work because of your sexual orientation?

B3. If you answered "yes," what form did the harassment take?

* Answered only by those who experienced harassment (No. = 85)	*TOTAL* (NUMBER)	SEX
	*TOTAL* (NUMBER)	MEN	WOMEN
PHYSICAL VIOLENCE	1		1
SEXUAL HARASSMENT	6	3	3
OFFENSIVE REMARKS	18	11	7
MOCKERY	8	3	5
NO ANSWER	2	1	1

B4. Have you ever been dismissed from a job because of your sexual orientation?

	*TOTAL* (%)	SEX		AGE		EDUCATION
	*TOTAL* (%)	MEN	WOMEN	UNDER 25	OVER 25	PRIMARY & SECONDARY	UNIVERSITY & MORE
YES	*2.9*	4.4	1.3	2.9	2.7	4.6	1.3
NO	*76.2*	79.1	76.0	68.6	86.3	70.1	84.8
I SUSPECT SO	*2.3*	1.1	1.3	6.9	2.7		3.8
NO ANSWER	*18.6*	15.4	21.3	28.6	8.2	25.3	10.1

Have you ever been dismissed from a job because of your sexual orientation?

B5. Have you ever experienced discrimination when applying for employment because of your sexual orientation?

	*TOTAL* (%)	SEX		AGE		EDUCATION
	*TOTAL* (%)	MEN	WOMEN	UNDER 25	OVER 25	PRIMARY & SECONDARY	UNIVERSITY & MORE
YES	*7.0*	7.7	6.7	5.7	11.0	5.7	8.9
NO	*72.6*	79.1	66.7	71.4	74.0	71.3	74.7
I SUSPECT SO	*7.0*	2.2	10.7	2.9	8.2	5.7	7.6
NO ANSWER	*13.4*	11.0	16.0	20.0	6.8	17.2	8.9

Have you ever experienced discrimination when applying for employment because of your sexual orientation?

B6. Have you ever been denied promotion because of your sexual orientation?

	*TOTAL* (%)	SEX		AGE		EDUCATION
	*TOTAL* (%)	MEN	WOMEN	UNDER 25	OVER 25	PRIMARY & SECONDARY	UNIVERSITY & MORE
YES	14.5	16.5	13.3	10.5	19.2	13.8	16.5
NO	59.9	67.0	49.3	57.1	57.5	63.2	54.4
I SUSPECT SO	14.0	7.7	21.3	15.7	15.1	9.2	20.3
NO ANSWER	11.6	8.8	16.0	17.1	8.2	13.8	8.9

Have you ever been denied promotion because of your sexual orientation?

C. HEALTH CARE SERVICES

C1. Have you experienced discrimination in health care services because of your sexual orientation?

	*TOTAL* (%)	SEX		AGE		EDUCATION
	*TOTAL* (%)	MEN	WOMEN	UNDER 25	OVER 25	PRIMARY & SECONDARY	UNIVERSITY & MORE
YES	*7.6*	7.7	8.0	8.6	8.2	6.9	8.9
NO	*89.5*	92.3	85.3	87.1	89.0	92.0	86.1
NO ANSWER	*2.9*	/	6.7	4.3	2.7	1.1	5.1

Have you experienced discrimination in health care services because of your sexual orientation?

C2. If you answered "yes," can you provide an example?

ANSWERS BY WOMEN:

The attitude of the gynecologist became worse, and the examination and counselling were unpleasant.
Verbal harassment by medical staff, offensive attitude.
Before surgery, the doctor suggested that I be tested for HIV because I’m a lesbian.
Malicious gossip behind my back, mockery.
My gynecologist insisted on prescribing me contraceptives, despite the fact that I informed him that I have sexual relations only with women.
Insistence on the prescription of contraception.

ANSWERS BY MEN:

Insults, offensive remarks by the doctor, improper medical treatment.
As a blood donor.
The attitude of the female doctor became worse after I told her I am gay.
The medical personnel reacted with exaggerated amazement and rolled their eyes when I was accompanied to the hospital by my same-sex partner.
I noticed that homosexuals are prohibited from donating blood.
I was treated unequally in group therapy by the doctor. He prevented me from bringing my partner on occasions when heterosexual members of the group were allowed to bring theirs; for example, during excursions and other forms of socialising. His argument was: I don’t want a homosexual atmosphere in my group, I don’t want to promote homosexuality in my therapy. Because of this discrimination and homophobia I stopped attending the therapy.
At blood donation campaigns.

C3. Were you ever advised to undergo psychiatric treatment because of your homosexuality?

	*TOTAL* (%)	SEX		AGE		EDUCATION
	*TOTAL* (%)	MEN	WOMEN	UNDER 25	OVER 25	PRIMARY & SECONDARY	UNIVERSITY & MORE
YES	*7.0*	6.6	8.0	7.1	8.2	8.0	6.3
NO	*83.1*	84.6	80.0	77.1	82.6	82.8	82.3
NO ANSWER	*9.9*	8.8	12.0	15.7	8.2	9.2	11.4

Were you ever advised to undergo psychiatric treatment because of your homosexuality?

D. HOUSING

D1. Have you ever had problems when looking for housing because of your sexual orientation?

	*TOTAL* (%)	SEX		AGE		EDUCATION
	*TOTAL* (%)	MEN	WOMEN	UNDER 25	OVER 25	PRIMARY & SECONDARY	UNIVERSITY & MORE
YES	7.0	7.7	6.7	7.1	9.6	6.7	7.6
NO	89.0	90.1	86.7	87.1	87.7	90.8	86.1
NO ANSWER	4.0	2.2	6.7	5.7	2.7	2.3	6.3

Have you ever had problems when looking for housing because of your sexual orientation?

D2. If you answered "yes," can you provide an example?

ANSWERS BY WOMEN:

When I told a landlord I was a lesbian, a heterosexual girl candidate was given the flat instead.
In a house where many students live, the other students were afraid to be roommates with a lesbian.
The landlord wanted to rent a flat to a heterosexual couple and not to a pair of girls.

ANSWERS BY MEN:

I suspect that I lost a flat after the landlord found out I was gay.
I had to leave my apartment within seven days even though we were legally allowed one month’s notice.
The problem is precisely the fact that one has to hide one’s sexual orientation when looking for housing.
As a student I always had to hide my sexual orientation in front of my roommates.
I suspect that my lease was terminated because I am gay.

E. MILITARY

E1. Were you ever discriminated against because of your homosexuality while serving in the military?

* Answered only by men (No.=91)	*TOTAL* (%)	AGE		EDUCATION
	*TOTAL* (%)	UNDER 25	OVER 25	PRIMARY & SECONDARY	UNIVERSITY & MORE
YES	*11.0*	7.7	15.8	5.7	16.7
NO	*80.2*	82.1	76.3	86.8	72.2
NO ANSWER	*8.8*	10.3	7.9	7.5	11.1

Were you ever discriminated against because of your homosexuality while serving in the military?

E2. If you answered "yes," can you provide an example?

I was excused from serving in the military at my own request I consider this to be positive discrimination.
I was not accepted into the military.
In psychological tests, which have to be taken by each conscript, it is necessary to answer questions that hint at the issue of sexual orientation. What connection does this have with military service?
Examination by a psychiatrist.
I was declared "unfit for military service."

F. OTHER ISSUES

F1. Would you register your same-sex partnership if it were legally permitted?

	*TOTAL* (%)	SEX		AGE		EDUCATION
	*TOTAL* (%)	MEN	WOMEN	UNDER 25	OVER 25	PRIMARY & SECONDARY	UNIVERSITY & MORE
YES	*73.9*	73.6	76.0	77.1	75.3	78.2	69.6
NO	*20.9*	24.2	14.7	17.1	20.5	19.5	21.5
NO ANSWER	*5.2*	2.2	9.3	5.7	4.1	2.3	8.9

Would you register your same-sex partnership if it were legally permitted?

F2. If you were to decide to emigrate, would your sexual orientation play a significant role in your decision?

	*TOTAL* (%)	SEX		AGE		EDUCATION
	*TOTAL* (%)	MEN	WOMEN	UNDER 25	OVER 25	PRIMARY & SECONDARY	UNIVERSITY AND MORE
YES	*34.9*	39.6	28.0	37.1	37.0	39.1	31.6
NO	*55.2*	57.1	53.3	54.3	54.8	55.2	55.7
NO ANSWER	*9.9*	3.3	18.6	8.6	8.2	5.7	12.7

If you were to decide to emigrate, would your sexual orientation play a significant role in your decision?

DEMOGRAPHIC DATA

ANALYSIS OF SAMPLE BY GENDER

ANALYSIS OF SAMPLE BY AGE

ANALYSIS OF SAMPLE BY EDUCATIONAL LEVEL

APPENDIX 2

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE SLOVENIAN GOVERNMENT

The Government should make a public commitment to promoting the inclusion and participation of lesbian, gay and bisexual persons in society, and combating their exclusion. This commitment should be implemented by means of a detailed strategy which should be developed in consultation with lesbian, gay and bisexual community organisations. It should include the following measures:

1. The education system

The development of policies which ensure that same-sex relationships are addressed by the educational system in a fair and objective manner, and that lesbian, gay and bisexual persons are covered in all educational material which addresses the right to equal treatment of minorities and the dangers of intolerance;
The development and promotion of anti-bullying and anti-harassment policies in schools, other education establishments and services to young people, such policies specifically to deal with homophobic bullying and harassment.

2. The police

The development of a code of conduct and training designed to counter homophobic attitudes and behaviour, and to encourage the police to react positively when called upon for help that lesbian, gay and bisexual people
Proper investigation of homophobic actions, and proportionate disciplinary response
Appointment of police officers to liaise with the lesbian, gay and bisexual community
Adoption of a diversity policy encouraging the recruitment of lesbian and gay police officers
A campaign specifically directed towards persuading lesbian, gay and bisexual victims of violent attacks and other homophobic hate crimes to report these crimes to the police

3. The armed forces

A code of conduct and training designed to counter homophobic attitudes and behaviour, and to ensure that the armed forces are a safe working and living environment for homosexuals
Proper investigation of homophobic actions, and proportionate disciplinary response
A clear statement by the military authorities that gay people are welcome to serve in the armed forces on equal terms with all other citizens
Specific instructions to military doctors and psychiatrists to cease treating homosexuality as a "personality disorder"

4. The health service

The withdrawal of all medical texts which still treat same-sex relationships as an illness or disorder
Training courses for medical students, and continuing professional education for doctors, to include material designed to combat outdated discriminatory perspectives, and to cover the genuine health needs of lesbian, gay and bisexual people
A code of conduct and training designed to counter homophobic attitudes and behaviour more generally, particularly among other health service employees, including nurses and auxiliary staff.

5. Support for lesbian, gay and bisexual human rights and community organisations

Recognition of the contribution which lesbian, gay and bisexual community organisations can make to the development of a society in which all citizens can live free from discrimination
Provision for financial support for such organisations

6. Legal recognition of same-sex relationships

The introduction of a legal framework for the recognition of same-sex relationships, granting the same rights as those available to heterosexual married and unmarried couples.

7. Parenting

Legal recognition of equal right to artificial insemination for all women (including single women/lesbians), regardless of their marital status or any other personal circumstances; adoption rights for same-sex couples.

8. The Ombudsman

To make it clear that the Ombudsman is to deal with with violations of the rights of lesbian, gay and bisexual people to the same standard as the violations of the rights of any other group in society.