69.7% of interviewed local public officials in Albania reveal they have never offered a service to an LGBT person. The study “Perceptions of local institutions on LGBT friendly services” conducted by PINK Embassy in 6 municipalities across the country reveals interesting data on perceptions of local officials. Study shows that while the majority of them would easily offer services to the community, just like any other citizen, low support is shown for family rights such as marriage or adoption. A large majority of officials have received no trainings or professional information on LGBTI rights.
A small 8.5% of the 225 interviewed officials believe that LGBT people should receive particular services while a relatively large 68% thinks they are citizens like everyone else.
Moreover the study shows that municipalities have generally positive attitudes toward LGBT people and their right to access local government services equally. The official’s faith and religious practices have very low impact on their attitudes towards LGBTI people. More importantly the study reveals that the role of local administration officials is essential for the protection of LGBT rights and that the low levels of information and knowledge highlight the need of training and capacity building on the issue.
The study which was supported by the European Union was organized in cooperation with the Ombudsman’s Office and the Commissioner for Protection from Discrimination and was conducted in partnership with the Municipalities of Elbasan, Tirana, Shkodra, Vlora, Korca and Durrës.
For more information on the study and to receive the official presentations send an email to: pinkembassy@crca.al