At a recent consultation, representatives of organizations supporting LGBTIQ+ youth in Ljubljana gathered to address key challenges and needs of the community. Simona Muršec, president of the Ljubljana Pride Association, emphasized that the needs of young people are rapidly changing, making it important for organizations to adapt and monitor trends. During the symposium, we presented preliminary results from the latest research on the status of LGBTIQ+ youth, conducted in the Municipality of Ljubljana (MOL), whose full results will be publicly presented by the end of the year. The research will help highlight the current challenges and needs of LGBTIQ+ youth, especially in the post-COVID period.
Simona Topolinjak from the Department of Social and Health Affairs of MOL presented the projects MOL is implementing to support the LGBTIQ+ community, particularly emphasizing the co-financing of programs for transgender people. She also highlighted the importance of the LGBT-friendly certificate, which encourages organizations to create an inclusive environment. Nina Orlič from Mladi Zmaji shared best practices from the youth centers (Mladi Zmaji), where they carry out various activities to integrate LGBTIQ+ youth, including the “Rainbow Fridays” project.
Aleš Zobec from the Secondary School for Educators, Gymnasium, and Art Gymnasium Ljubljana presented the LGBTIQ+ club that has been successfully run at the school for many years, providing young people with a safe space for conversation and expression of identity.
The consultation focused on questions about what needs to change for organizations, spaces, and events in Ljubljana to become more inclusive for LGBTIQ+ youth. The discussions were divided into three key groups: municipal and public structures, public services (such as healthcare, education, and justice), and local youth and LGBTIQ+ policies. Participants identified specific measures that should be introduced in each of these areas to better integrate LGBTIQ+ youth.
Important topics highlighted during the consultation included the importance of an intersectional approach in policy development, ensuring a safe environment for LGBTIQ+ people in public spaces, and the importance of cross-sectoral collaboration. The event provided valuable insight into the current state and challenges faced by LGBTIQ+ youth, with suggestions for further actions and improvements. The final research report will be published by the end of the year.
In the afternoon session, two additional areas/good practices were presented that can support youth workers in creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for (LGBTIQ+) youth.
The event was funded by the Municipality of Ljubljana.