A report on in : Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate, Experiences and Needs

Two studies conducted in the context of ILGA-’s 7th Call for Proposals for Human Rights Violations Documentation Fund.

Report prepared by:

Margarita Kapsou, Anna Christophi, & Maria Epaminonda

for the Cyprus Family Planning Association & accept-LGBT Cyprus, June 2011, , Cyprus i

Nicosia, 2011. Cyprus Family Planning Association & accept-LGBT Cyprus

This publication was made with the support of ILGA-Europe within its Human Rights Violations Documentation Fund. The opinions expressed in the document do not necessarily reflect any official position of ILGA-Europe. i

Cyprus Family Planning Association

The Cyprus Family Planning Association (CFPA) is one of the oldest and most firmly- established Non-profit, Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) in Cyprus, with a rich and ongoing contribution to society, health, education, and Human Rights since its inception in 1971. The CFPA is a fully accredited member of the European Network of the International Planned Parenthood Federation- European Network (IPPF-EN), with active involvement in several European networks and bodies. The CFPA works towards promoting and advocating for the Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights of all people in Cyprus.

CFPA's vision is a world where sexuality is expressed and enjoyed in freedom, equality, respect and love. Respect and protection of sexual reproductive rights as basic human rights is a prerequisite for ensuring sexual health and wellbeing of all people.

Our mission is to promote the development of a society where all people can enjoy the basic human right to make free and informed choices in their sexual, emotional and reproductive lives. We work to defend, protect and advocate for the sexual and reproductive rights of all women, men and young people, and we exercise a leading role in sexual and reproductive health through the work of our committed, competent and skilled volunteers and staff. We firmly believe that evidence-based, Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE), free of prejudice, dogma or ideologies, is necessary to equip young people with the tools - knowledge and skills- needed to make informed and free choices regarding their sexual life. Thus, the CFPA plans, implements and evaluates information and education programs for youth by youth and specialists, educates parents, teachers and other professionals, and publishes accurate information and educational materials on issues of sexuality. Moreover, in the context of our efforts to ensure access by all to health services, we regularly offer low cost clinical services by volunteer gynaecologists. We carry out research programs to record and document the needs in Cyprus and conduct programs to promote and defend Sexual Reproductive Rights.

In relation to sexual orientation, the CFPA believes that it can take many forms and be expressed in a number of different ways, including gay, lesbian, bisexual and heterosexual relationships, and that all people should be able to express their sexuality freely. The CFPA is concerned about discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation, as a serious violation of basic human rights. Its actions have included leading an awareness raising campaign on sexual orientation in the context of the year for “Equal Opportunities for All – 2007” in cooperation with the Cyprus Gay Liberation Movement (AKOK). In order to provide accurate information and raise awareness among the general public on the issue of sexual orientation from a human rights perspective and discrimination due to sexual orientation, the CFPA has issued an informational booklet titled “Sexual Orientation - Myths and Truths”. The CFPA also provides information and support on sexuality issues, including issues pertaining to sexual orientation, through a free helpline (1455).

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Accept-LGBT Cyprus

In September 2009, a group of people came together to explore and discuss not only the discrimination they were facing but also the exclusion and intolerance they were witnessing around them when expressing their sexual identity and orientation. Get-together after get- together began to gather momentum and so with the energy, vision and passion of the many, accept LGBT Cyprus came into being. A steady group of people began to meet regularly, quickly forming an organization dedicated to, focused on and driven by, the need for sexual equality; freedom of expression and sexual rights is long overdue. Having applied in October 2010, accept LGBT Cyprus, for now, is still awaiting formal recognition. With more than 500 members registered to the website www.acceptcy.org and an almost 1000 strong following on a prominent social networking site, accept LGBT Cyprus has demonstrated in the short time of its existence that a strong voice is emerging. In the short time of its activity, this organised group has achieved a great deal. Included in these achievements are not only commemorations and celebrations such as those on May 17 th (IDAHO day) and attendance at the Athens Pride festivals, but also the first European conference to be held in Cyprus focused on LGBT issues, the first movie nights discussions, the first photo exhibitions with an LGBT theme, to be opened by Mayors of Nicosia and , public debates on sexuality, sexual rights, same sex partnerships, as well as well attended open social gatherings. Our participation, along with Cyprus Family Planning Association, in the current study has set the standard and pace for accept-LGBT Cyprus. There is still a long road ahead. Accept LGBT Cyprus has a vision for this journey which sees a society based on respect for the individual and their diversity without discrimination and preconceived notions, in particular on issues of sexual identity, confronting preconceived stereotypes, stigmas and social outcasting. The energy of the group is focused on (1) advocacy, assertion and promotion of the rights and interests of LGBT people, as well as fighting against preconceived stereotypes, stigmas and social outcasting; and (2) sensitizing and informing the LGBT community as well as public opinion, the family, social institutions, organised, or otherwise, agencies, and society in general, on issues of sexual identity, gender, sexual orientation, and sexual health. The aims of the group include : to provide Information and support for the Cypriot Education system on issues of sexual identity and gender; to prevent the insurgence of homophobic tendencies, the protection and embedding of a pluralistic environment in the wider social circle; social sensitization of society on issues of sexual orientation with emphasis on the youth and gender; to support, empower, and advocate for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) as well as dialogue and information giving amongst them; to fight for basic rights against prejudice and discrimination; to collaborate with regional and international organisations who are also working with issues of sexual identity and gender; to promote research and studies related to our issues; to take part in conferences and other organised events in relation to the development and promotion of ideals in the area of human rights, with emphasis on sexual orientation; to organise lectures and speeches etc., that will inform society along with other agencies regarding the association's agenda; to promote the implementation of European Law in relation to sexual orientation; to promote and implement political, legal programme and case-law from the EU and the in relation to the fight against discrimination and the promotion of equality, in particular with regard to sexual orientation and gender; and to promote the right to legalised same sex marriage, adoption, inheritance rights, insurance, health and other issues, for all Cypriot Citizens, with discrimination. iii

Foreword

When the call was announced that funding had become available to map LGBT issues, Margarita Kapsou, Maria Epaminonda, Stalo Lesta, and I met for lunch. Our main concerns and discussions were not focused on whether we had the skills and capacity to conduct such a task, as each of us had done so before either as a group and/or individually; they were focused on whether the society within which we live would be ready to accept such a spotlight of attention. We were fully aware that such a study, focused on LGBT issues, had never been conducted in Cyprus before. Our personal and professional experiences had made each of us aware of the fact that human rights issues, issues of equality and acceptance of diversity, including issues around racism and even sexual health, had become hot topics in Cyprus. Non-governmental organizations, and research groups as well as governmental bodies and various other agencies had all begun to include Human Rights and diversity as standard foundational concepts. LGBT issues, however, had remained in the shadows. After the brief and ground-breaking start that had been made by Mr. Alecos Modinos and the Gay Liberation Movement of Cyprus, decades before, little more movement could be seen. Even though a vibrant LGBT community exists in Cyprus, we entered with some cautiousness into the agreement that we would and could encourage 100 LGBT people to participate in a mapping exercise via questionnaires, specifically about their experiences in living, expressing, concealing, announcing and defending their right to be authentically themselves in a specific LGBT focus. Through the persistence of the research team which included Anna Christophi, Nicole Polycarpou, Irene Kounnou, and numerous volunteers, as well as the visibility that the accept LGBT Cyprus website gave as an access point, our expectations were surpassed, and in total 136 questionnaires were completed, marking a historical moment in the LGBT arena in Cyprus. This report presents preliminary results from the first integrated island-wide study on LGBT issues. The main part is divided into four sections. The first section sets the scene by providing some historical background for LGBT issues in Cyprus. Then, two separate chapters follow presenting the two studies that were conducted in the context of this project. Study 1 documented the contemporary sociolopolitical climate around LGBT issues, through analysis of newspaper articles for the years 2008-2010. Study 2 documented the experiences iv and needs of LGB persons in Cyprus, through questionnaires. Chapters for each study include the aims, methodology, results, and a brief discussion of key findings. In the last section, the report concludes with a general discussion and recommendations for future needs and advocacy on LGBT issues. Potential recipients of the results of these studies include decision/policy makers such as MPs and specific parliamentary committees (Human Rights, Health, Education, Equal Opportunities), relevant Ministries (e.g. Justice and Public Order, Education and Culture, Health), the Commissioner of Administration, National and international NGOs/CSOs and academic or research institutions, media outlets and members of the LGBT movement to the ground for beginning advocacy work on LGB rights to enable law amendments provide information, raise awareness, sensitize, and influence opinions for the general public, guide development of the organization’s strategic plan and planning of next activities. As for the latter the research will contribute to the improvement/enrichment the challenges, and needs of LGBT people in Cyprus, and can be used as a tool to advocate for social and political reform to tackle discrimination and human rights violations experienced by the LGB community in Cyprus. This is the beginning. Using this mapping exercise, future needs and areas of attention have been identified. The LGBT population of Cyprus have started to exercise their right to freedom of expression. Using their voice via this study marks the beginning for a journey that can only shed light, positive attitude and inspiration to others.

Sylvie Mantis Acting President accept LGBT Cyprus July 2011

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Acknowledgments

Project implementation and completion was possible thanks to the enthusiasm, commitment, and hard work of the research team, many of whom devoted their time and expertise as volunteers; of CFPA staff and volunteers; of accept-LGBT Cyprus’ temporary steering committee and members; and thanks to the encouragement provided by all those individuals concerned about LGBT rights and human rights. In particular, I would like to thank the volunteer members of the research team: Irene Kounnou, Costas Constantinou, Ploutarchos Pantelides, and Soteris Koulermou, who assisted with the painstaking process of retrieving and coding articles, as well as in data collection; Nicole Polycarpou who coordinated the process; and especially, Stalo Lesta who developed the code frame, provided training, continuous support and direction to the research team during the coding process, and subsequently, for providing invaluable assistance in article analysis as well as feedback for this report. On behalf of accept-LGBT Cyprus, special thanks is owed to Yoryis Regginos and Despina Michaelidou, who along with many more anonymous volunteers assisted in recruiting participants and collecting questionnaires for this study; Costas Gabrielides, whose patient work in developing the infrastructure for the website and uploading the questionnaire for online dissemination, was crucial in facilitating the data collection process; and of course, temporary steering committee President, Sylvie Mantis, for the feedback, supervision, and encouragement she provided. In addition, we are grateful to Dora Georgiou and π café for their contributions with data collection; to Evgenia Kyriakidou, who assisted with data entry and management; and to journalists Yiorgos Kakouris and Christiana Voniati who facilitated this project’s initial info-day on April 15 th 2011, and who have been supporting our endeavours throughout. I am personally indebted to this report’s co-authors, who stood behind this project from the onset through its final stages: Anna Christophi, whose hard and methodical work, and professionalism were conducive to successful completion of this project’s quantitative study; and Maria Epaminonda, CFPA’s Executive Director, who stood by me for all the challenges faced during implementation of the project. Above all, we should express our sincere appreciation and gratitude to the LGB participants, who took the time to complete the study’s questionnaire and shared their experiences, needs, and personal stories. We hope that this study will serve justice to the LGBT community, by promoting visibility and awareness about their needs and contributing to the safeguarding of LGBT rights as human rights. This report was possible through funding provided by ILGA-Europe, in the context of the 7th Call for Proposals for the Human Rights Violations Documentation Fund. We are grateful for their continuing support in the establishment, development and growth of an organised LGBT movement in Cyprus.

Margarita Kapsou, Principal Investigator

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Table of Contents

Foreword ...... iii Acknowledgments ...... v Preface...... 1 Introduction: Background of LGBT issues in Cyprus ...... 3 Social and Legal Context ...... 4 LGBT advocacy in Cyprus ...... 12 The present study ...... 13 Study 1: Mapping the Socio-political Climate...... 20 Abstract...... 21 Aims...... 22 Method ...... 23 Selection of Sources ...... 23 Description of Sources ...... 24 Data Collection Procedure ...... 24 Coding ...... 26 Analysis ...... 27 Results...... 28 Overall quantitative trends ...... 28 Content Analysis by Newspaper ...... 33 Overall Content Analysis and Mapping ...... 42 Discussion...... 47 Contributions of the Study ...... 55 Limitations ...... 56 Overview ...... 57 References...... 59 References to newspaper articles cited in the text ...... 62 Study 2: Mapping the Experiences and needs of the LGBT community in Cyprus...... 88 Abstract...... 89 Aims...... 91 Method ...... 93 Participants ...... 93 Measures ...... 93 vii

Procedure ...... 95 Statistical and Qualitative Analysis ...... 95 Results...... 96 Participant Profile ...... 96 Awareness about sexual orientation...... 97 Experiences of physical violence ...... 99 Experiences of psychological violence ...... 100 Workplace...... 101 School/University...... 102 Delivery of services ...... 102 Internalized homophobia ...... 104 Responses to Open Questions ...... 105 Reasons for not reporting incidents ...... 107 Emerging topics ...... 109 Discussion...... 113 Limitations ...... 118 Further Research Directions ...... 119 References...... 123 General Discussion and Recommendations...... 150 Concluding Remarks...... 154 Appendix One: Newspaper Coding Frame...... 155 Appendix Two: Questionnaire...... 168 1

Preface

Available research on LGBT issues in Cyprus is limited, and prior reports and situational analyses have mostly been based on anecdotal evidence. Until recently, organised efforts to promote (LGBT) rights in Cyprus were minimal, and hence media and political discourse on LGBT issues is scarce, while expressions of any homophobic attitudes were mostly ignored. However, the past year (2010) was marked by increased interest in LGBT issues, as it included the official launch of an organised LGBT group (accept-LGBT Cyprus), increased coverage of LGBT issues in the media, and some rise in political discussion. These developments contribute to rendering a more fertile environment for conducting both LGBT advocacy and research.

This project includes one of the first systematic attempts to document the situation

and needs of LGBT issues in Cyprus though two parallel studies that were conducted

between April 2010 and April 2011. In the first study articles pertaining to LGBT issues

published in major newspapers in Cyprus in the past three years (2008-2010) were collected,

coded, and analyzed, in an effort to document the prevailing socio-political climate. The

second study provides insight into the experiences of LGB persons in Cyprus, obtained

through questionnaires completed by LGB people throughout the island. The study

documented experiences of violence or psychological harassment, acceptance or

discrimination in relation to work, housing, health and other services, faith, school and

university, family, relationships, and social attitudes. Participants also provided information

regarding the extent to which family members, friends, and colleagues were aware of their

sexual orientation, reception of their sexual orientation by those who were aware, and how

comfortable they felt expressing their sexuality. Information provided in this report will be of

interest to activists and researchers, particularly those interested in conducting such work in

novel contexts. 2

Introduction

Margarita Kapsou & Maria Epaminonda

Running Head: Background 3

Introduction: Background of LGBT issues in Cyprus

Cyprus remains a socially conservative country when it comes to issues pertaining to sexuality, or diversity. This conservatism is also true for LGBT issues and is reflected through public opinion, inadequate legal or institutional provisions through its institutions to ensure equal rights, and, generally, a lack of discourse on LGBT matters, which are still considered taboo and are thus lacking visibility. This section presents an overview of the current situation and main developments pertaining to LGBT issues over the past years or decades, including legislation, education, and public discourse. Available evidence from empirical studies or surveys regarding public opinion and perception of LGBT issues is reviewed.

Evidence regarding LGBT issues in Cyprus so far consist mainly of sections in

Eurobarometer reports on discrimination in the EU (2007; 2009), dealing with public opinion regarding sexual orientation, and surveys of public attitudes on homosexuality (Research Centre of Cyprus College, 2006; Sigma TV, 2011). Various reports to European agencies and networks also provide useful sources of information regarding the social and legal situation of LGBT persons in Cyprus. A policy document for the NGO SIMFILIOSI examines the situation concerning homophobia and discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation in various aspects such as family, work, asylum, education, health, religion, sports and media

(Trimikliniotis & Karayianni, 2008). Two subsequent reports for the Agency for

Fundamental Rights (Trimikliniotis & Demetriou, 2008; European Union Agency for

Fundamental Rights, 2009) provide in-depth analyses of LGBT issues in Cyprus, from a legal and social perspective respectively. The situation is also summarized in ILGA-Europe’s submission to the United Nations Human Rights Council for its Universal Periodic Review of

Cyprus (6 th session). More recently, a report for the Network of socioeconomic experts in the Running Head: Background 4

Anti-discrimination field (Polycarpou, 2010), covers the presents’ experiences obtained through interviews and a case on behalf of the Commissioner of Administration (Ombudswoman) (2006).

Legal inadequacies and recommendations are provided through reports on various complaints for discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation examined by the Commissioner of

Administration (Nicolaou, 2009; 2010a). Some insight into the personal experiences of LGBT persons is provided through a qualitative study of the experiences of Anglo-Cypriot gay men conducted in London (Phellas, 2002; 2005; Philaretou, Phellas, & Karayianni, 2006) and later also published in (Phellas, Philaretou, & Karagiannis, 2010), which investigates issues such as disclosure to family and self-definition of identity. Finally, some data on sexual orientation are provided in the context of broader studies on sexuality and sexual reproductive health and rights (Kouta, 2004; Kapsou, 2006; Lesta, Lazarus, & Essen, 2008), and in analyses provided on the section on Cyprus in the International Encyclopedia of Sexuality (Georgiou,

Modinos, Papageorgiou, Papantoniou, & Peristianis, 2006). The main findings from these sources are discussed in terms of the information they provide for the social and legal situation of

LGBT persons in Cyprus today.

Social and Legal Context

The legal situation regarding LGBT people in Cyprus is disconcerting at best (a thorough review of the recent legal situation is provided by Trimikliniotis & Demetriou, 2008, updated in

2010). In a recent classification of the legal situation for LGBT people in Europe by ILGA-

Europe, Cyprus ranked the lowest among EU countries; in fact, as of 2011, Cyprus is the only

EU member state classified in ILGA-Europe’s “red zone”, indicating “gross violations of human rights and discrimination” (ILGA-Europe, 2011). This low ranking is partly attributed to the failure of Cypriot legislation to make any mention of sexual orientation or in its Running Head: Background 5 anti-discrimination and hate speech measures, the lack of any legal recognition of same sex partnerships and its unequal for heterosexual and same-sex couples. Moreover,

Cyprus has never hosted a gay pride event .

This situation is not surprising, considering that Cyprus historically lagged behind other

European countries in terms of any recognition of LGBT rights, and even for the abolition of legislation criminalizing same-sex sexual behaviour among males. Throughout Cyprus history, colonial and post-colonial legacy prosecuted and marginalized LGBT people. Same-sex sexual relations among men were criminalized until 1998 and abolition only occurred following repeated pressure from the European Court of Human Rights, following a notorious appeal against the Cypriot state. In May 1989 Alecos Modinos appealed against the Cyprus Republic to the European Commission of Human Rights (Modinos v. Cyprus, no. 15070/89) for violation of his rights as a homosexual person. Even though Modinos won his appeal against the law criminalizing homosexuality in Cyprus in 1993 (European Court of Human Rights, 1993), the

Cyprus government failed to implement the decision of the Court until 1998, when the country was to claim membership in the European Union and was essentially forced to amend the legislation (for a more detailed discussion of the Modinos v. Cyprus case, see Modinos, in

Georgiou et al., 2006). Furthermore, the age of consent defined for male same-sex sexual activity

(defined at 18 years of age) remained unequal to the age of consent for heterosexual activity

(defined at 16). In 2002, in an attempt to appease Modinos, who followed with further appeals, age of consent for sexual intercourse under the law was changed to 17 years for both heterosexual and same-sex relationships; this amendment was not however sufficient to eliminate discrimination regarding age of consent based on sexual orientation, since the age of consent for marriage, which only applies for heterosexual couples, remains at 16. Since 2004, Running Head: Background 6 additional legislation implementing the European directive against discrimination law has been enforced to prohibit discrimination on grounds of sexual orientation (among other types of discrimination) in the workplace.

Legislation in Cyprus never included any reference to lesbians or transgender persons.

Although transgender persons are not explicitly covered by any laws, it is assumed that the issue would be treated as discrimination on the ground of sexual orientation rather than gender identity

(Trimikliniotis & Demetriou, 2008). Moreover, there is no legislation in Cyprus addressing homophobia, homophobic hate speech or homophobic motivation for a crime on the grounds of sexual orientation. As a result, homophobic hate speech and homophobic hate crimes are dealt with as indistinguishable from other crimes and remain undocumented. There is no case law or any decision made by the equality body regarding the above provisions. Most LGBT persons in

Cyprus are ‘closeted’ and will not pursue their rights if that involves revealing their sexual orientation (Trimikliniotis & Demetriou, 2008). Lack of trust in the public authorities and police appear to be partly responsible for underreporting of incidents (Trimikliniotis & Karayianni,

2008). Neither explicit policies, nor any schemes for systematic recording of incidents of homophobic bullying or violence are in place by the state. Furthermore, the treatment of LGBT families by public authorities, including various administrative procedures, is often marked by indirect discrimination, such as through the privileges enjoyed by married employees in the field education regarding placements, transfers and movements (Report of the Equality body No.

A.K.I 11/2004, cited in Trimikliniotis & Karayianni, 2008).

Cyprus currently offers no form of legal recognition of same-sex partnerships, or adoption by same-sex couples and consequently no safeguarding of the rights of LGBT partners, parents, or families. On some occasions, this legal gap resulted in denial of asylum or residence Running Head: Background 7 status to same-sex partners of Cypriots. The Commissioner of Administration, has examined complaints of discrimination based on sexual orientation (cases ΑΚΡ 103/2008, ΑΚΡ 213/2008,

ΑΚΡ 68/2008, AK Ρ 142/2009, ΑΚΡ 40/2009, ΑΚΡ 76/2009, ΑΚΡ 16/2010) and has repeatedly pointed out the need for legal recognition of same-sex relationships by the state (Authority against Racism and Discrimination, 2008; Nicolaou, 2009; 2010). Although the Commissioner of

Administration reported that the Director General of the Ministry Interior assured that the recommendations would be taken into account (Nicolaou, 2009), additional complaints whereby residency was denied to the same-sex partners of Cypriot citizens because the partnership is not recognized by the state followed. In March 2010, the Authority against Racism and

Discrimination (an authority under the auspices of the office of the Commissioner of

Administration published a report on the legal rights of same-sex couples in relationships. The report specifically states that “the legal recognition of same-sex partnerships, is, under present circumstances warranted under the principle of equal treatment, since the current legal vacuum creates unavoidable disparities at the expense of those persons, that are not open to any convincing justification” (Nicolaou, 2010, p.12; emphasis added). Despite the direct urges by the

Commissioner of Administration, the prospect of legalizing same-sex partnerships has received little attention. So far, only one political party (DH.SY, 2010) has issued an official opinion on the subject, which expressed opposition to same-sex marriage. Despite occasional public debates, the matter has not yet seriously been debated among decision makers, nor are any specific legal propositions currently being discussed.

Public Opinion . At the same time, public opinion in Cyprus remains wary of the prospect of legalizing same-sex partnerships. Eurobarometer reports (2006, 2008) place Cyprus in the lowest ranks among EU countries regarding agreement with same-sex marriage, and national Running Head: Background 8 opinion surveys (e.g. Research Centre of Cyprus College, 2006, SIGMA TV, 2011) document, not only low agreement with same-sex marriage, but also low tolerance and comfort around homosexual persons.

In 2006 and 2008, Eurobarometer surveys conducted across EU Member States examined discrimination across the EU and included questions about attitudes towards, and acceptance of homosexuality. In 2006, the Eurobarometer examined attitudes toward same-sex marriage in every Member State. While 44% of EU citizens agreed that such marriages should be allowed throughout Europe, the score for Cyprus was much lower, at 14 per cent, followed only by

Romania, with 11 percent. Agreement with adoption by same-sex couples was lower only in

Poland and Malta (7%); the figure for Cyprus (10%), was significantly lower compared to the

EU average (32%), and much lower than the which scored highest (69% agreement). The 2008 Eurobarometer continues to rank Cyprus among the most conservative and least tolerant states in Europe. The 2008 Eurobarometer asked respondents to indicate, on the comfort scale from 1 to 10 (higher values indicating greater comfort), how comfortable they would feel with having a homosexual holding the highest political office in their country. Cyprus along with Bulgaria, ranked the lowest (with a mean score of 3.5, compared to the EU average of

7.0). Whereas over a third of Europeans (36%) would feel ‘totally comfortable’ (giving a rating of 10 out of 10), the corresponding figure for Cyprus, along with Bulgaria was only 3.5, which was the lowest in the EU.

The first comprehensive attitude study regarding homosexuality in Cyprus was commissioned and funded by the Office of the Commissioner of Administration, in 2006 and conducted by the Research Centre of Cyprus College. The study investigated “Attitudes and perceptions of the public towards homosexuality” among a random stratified sample (N = 500), Running Head: Background 9 using personal interviews in households. Results indicated that the Cypriot society remains conservative and unwilling to abandon traditional beliefs about social and sexual norms or gender roles, with low tolerance for homosexuality. Specifically, 54% responded that same-sex sexual relations are “always wrong” and 51% reported they feel “very” or “rather” uncomfortable being around homosexual persons. Most notably, a whopping 93% would

“definitely” or “rather have a problem” if they had a homosexual babysitter for their child, 86% with a teacher and 81% with a close relative. Seventy six percent (76%) “disagreed” or “strongly disagreed” with same-sex marriage, although only 31% “disagreed” or “strongly disagreed” with

“homosexual couples having the same legal rights as heterosexual couples”.

More recently, a poll conducted by Prime Consulting on behalf of the TV program

“Europyxida” of Sigma TV entitled ‘Stigma and Racism’ (2011), measured attitudes of the public toward homosexuality. Participants were 634 men and women who were identified through random stratified sampling and who completed structured questionnaires over the telephone. In line with previous studies, results indicate low acceptance of homosexual persons, although a clear division was observed between younger and older age groups. Whereas all young persons (aged 18-24) would accept the friendly company of homosexuals (77% answered

“definitely yes”), acceptance decreased for older age groups (45% “definitely yes” for ages 25-

34 and 35-44, 43% for ages 45-54, 19% for ages 55-64, 7% for ages 65-74; respondents aged over 75 reported no acceptance of homosexuals as friends, with 50% responding “definitely no”, and the rest responding “I do not know”). Regarding views on same-sex marriage, 59% indicated they “disagree” or “strongly disagree”, 26% indicated they “agree” or “strongly agree”, and 15% expressed no opinion. These opinions appear somewhat more tolerant compared to the survey Running Head: Background 10 conducted on behalf of the Ombudswoman in 2006, especially among younger participants, but remain predominantly conservative.

Some supplementary information on perceptions of sexual orientation is provided in the context of wider studies on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) of young people. Such studies overall document limited knowledge on sexuality and sexual reproductive health among young people in Cyprus, a powerful influence of the church in sexual development, and wide prevalence of myths and misconceptions (Kouta, 2004; Kouta &

Raftopoulos, 2010). Confusion appears prevalent among young people when it comes to attitudes on issues that are considered “controversial”, such as homosexuality, and negative stereotypes appear widespread even among the young populations studied (Kapsou, 2006; Lesta et al., 2008).

It is postulated that a powerful and conservative Orthodox Christian Church, along with the lack of regular Comprehensive Sexuality Education in schools, or even through non-formal avenues, are among the forces contributing to the persistence of negative attitudes toward LGBT people and same-sex partnerships among Cypriots. These are discussed next.

Sexuality in Education. Sexuality education can have a vital role in providing information and knowledge regarding LGBT issues, addressing prejudices and stereotypes, changing attitudes and perceptions, and promoting acceptance irrespective of sexual orientation.

The necessity for Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) is therefore repeatedly stressed by both human rights and public health experts, who have repeatedly issued declarations and positions in favour of CSE programs for adolescents and young people (IPPF, 1996; APA, 2005;

YouAct, 2008; CYC, 2009). In Cyprus, sexuality education is neither legally mandated, nor implemented on a regular basis in schools. Since 2002, a pilot sexuality education program, taught by biology teachers, was implemented in six of a total of 68 junior high schools. The Running Head: Background 11 program was implemented in parallel with the health education program and often had no specifically assigned teaching hours, so was rather circumstantial. In other schools, sexuality issues were sporadically addressed throughout various courses in the school curriculum, such as biology, home economics, religious instruction, and optional courses such as family education and health education.

LGBT issues are not part of this curriculum and not explicitly incorporated or referred to in any of the above courses. Thus, currently, the topic of sexual orientation is not formally addressed in schools. In light of a recent educational reform, a new health education curriculum for “Health Education” has been compiled (Ioannou, Kouta, & Charalambous, 2010), which includes elements of Comprehensive Sexuality Education and addresses the issue of sexual orientation. Implementation of the new school curricula is planned for the school year of 2011 –

2012, but the Health Education program has no specifically assigned teaching hours at this point, it will be incorporated in other courses. Up to now no specific timelines were given for the health education program.

Trimikliniotis & Karayianni (2008) identify “heteronormativity as the master narrative that everyone is expected to obey” (p. 17) in the context of the public educational system in

Cyprus. Deviations are considered taboo and treated with embarrassment, whether these appear in the context of school work, or among the students or staff themselves, who rather tend to

“wrap matters in an awkward silence” (p. 17). The most likely response to an incident of homophobia or bullying would be to treat it cautiously, so it does not become openly known. At the same time, religious instruction remains a compulsory and influential subject in public schools, which, following the Greek Orthodox tradition, treats homosexuality as a sin. Running Head: Background 12

Non formal education in relation to sexuality, including LGBT issues is also lacking.

According to the Commissioner of Administration’s report on reproductive and sexual rights, the only organization which systematically deals with sexual reproductive health and rights is the

Cyprus Family Planning Association. (Nicolaou, 2010b, p.11). More recently, the launching and activity of an organised and visible LGBT rights group, accept-LGBT Cyprus, seems to contribute to increased visibility and discussion around LGBT issues.

LGBT advocacy in Cyprus

It is not surprising that, given the powerful influence of conservative forces such as the

Church, and the inadequate provision of formal or informal sexuality education, as discussed above, public discourse on LGBT issues in Cyprus is limited. LGBT issues and discussions about homophobia remain taboo and are rarely openly discussed. In fact, discussions are sporadic in the media and the political sector, and rare in schools, families or in any other public discourse. Consequently, important issues of access to housing, welfare services, insurance, and employment benefits for LGBT couples or partners have never been openly addressed in Cyprus, except through reports of the Commissioner of Administration following specific complaints.

Although Article 21 of the Cypriot Constitution guarantees the freedom of Assembly, direct criminalization until 1998, and the conservative prevailing climate that continues to the present day, largely inhibited much of free expression and formal organization pertaining LGBT activism so far. Consequently, in Cyprus there still is no formally registered LGBT organization.

At least two organizations that are not yet formally registered have been the primary actors who led efforts to promote LGBT rights. Since the 1980s and up until the early 2000s, LGBT rights in

Cyprus were predominantly represented by the Cyprus Gay Liberation Movement (AKOK, or

Apeleftherotiko Kinima Omofilofilon Kiprou, founded in 1987). The main figure associated with Running Head: Background 13 this movement was gay activist Alecos Modinos, who was successful, through his personal efforts described above, in helping to repeal the civilian criminal prohibitions regarding homosexuality, by taking the case of Modinos vs. Cyprus to the European Court of Human

Rights.

In 2009, a group was formed in order to protect the assertion and promotion of the rights and interests of LGBT people, and to help combat associated prejudices, stereotypes, stigmas, and social exclusion; raising awareness, and informing the community itself as well as the general public, the family, institutions, organised or non-organised institutions, and society in general, in matters of sexuality, identity gender, sexual orientation and sexual health. Later to be known as “accept-LBGT Cyprus” and currently undergoing the process of acquiring NGO status, this group initiated important activities such as press conferences, workshops, awareness campaigns, and other activities. Up to now there have never been any gay pride gatherings or

LGBT demonstrations in Cyprus. A gay parade is planned to be held in 2012.

The present study

Overall, apart from some useful country reports and case studies, mostly from a legal perspective, empirical evidence on LGBT issues in Cyprus is scarce. Existing evidence from public opinion surveys or in the context of other studies so far, documents widespread homophobia, misconceptions, and low tolerance or acceptance of LGBT people (Research

Centre of Cyprus College, 2006, Sigma TV, 2011). Cypriots do not feel comfortable associating with LGBT individuals, do not appear willing to accept them in their own family environment, and are resistant to the prospect of introducing legal provisions for the recognition of same-sex partnerships. However, the actual impact of this prevailing homophobic climate for LGBT persons living in Cypriots has received little scrutiny. The few studies available documenting the Running Head: Background 14 experiences of LGBT persons (e.g. Phellas, 2002), deal with gay men, in a specific cultural context (Cypriot men living in London); lesbian women and transgender persons have received little to no attention in studies. This invisibility of lesbian women and transgender persons is also reflected in legislation, public discourse and public perceptions.

The present project was conducted as a necessary first attempt to further document the sociopolitical climate through a systematic analysis of ongoing discourse, and to examine the experiences, needs and challenges that LGB(T) people face in Cyprus, pertaining to discrimination and violations of LGBT people’s human rights. Two parallel studies were run in order to achieve the goals of mapping the socio-political climate and the experiences of the

LGB-community in Cyprus respectively. These studies are presented in the sections that follow.

The first part of this report presents Study 1, which is primarily concerned with mapping the current sociopolitical climate around LGBT issues in Cyprus, through analysis and discussion of the findings of the first systematic attempt to record and analyse relevant press articles and statements pertaining to LGBT issues, throughout the 3-year period between 01.01.2008 and

31.12.2010. Study 2 presents a first systematic attempt to document the experiences of LGBT persons themselves in various aspects of their daily experience, including family, work, school, and services, which were provided through an anonymous questionnaire.

It should be clarified that the situation, experiences, and climate presented through the results of this study should only be considered reflective of the mostly Greek Cypriot area, under the effective control of the Government of the Republic of Cyprus. Specifically, newspapers included in Study 1 are circulated in the area under the effective control of the Government of the Republic of Cyprus and mostly refer to and discuss events pertaining to this region. Running Head: Background 15

Participants of the quantitative survey in Study 2 referred to their experiences while in Cyprus

(area under the effective control of the Government of the Republic of Cyprus).

Running Head: Background 16

References

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Supported Sex Education and HIV Prevention Programs for Adolescents.

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europe.org/home/publications/reports_and_other_materials/rainbow_map_and_index

_2011 Running Head: Background 17

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Reproductive Rights.

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Adequacy of Information Received on Sexuality Issues . Sex Education, 8, 237-246.

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citizens and their family members to move and reside freely within the territory of the

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Nicosia, Cyprus: Equality Authority against Racism and Discrimination. Running Head: Background 18

Nicolaou, I. (2010b). Report of the Commissioner of Administration in relation to Sexual and

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Britain. London: Ashgate Publishers.

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A Qualitative Study. Qualitative Sociology Review, 1(2), 65-83.

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Construction of Atypical Social Behaviors. (« Σεξουαλικές Αλληλεπιδράσεις : Η

κοινωνική δόηση των Άτυπων Σεξουαλικών Συπεριφορών »). Athens, Greece:

Kritiki Publishers.

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Construction of Atypical Social Behaviors. Florida, USA: Universal Publishers.

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Consulting Ltd, on behalf of the program Europyxida, for Sigma TV.

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Discrimination on Grounds of Sexual Orientation . Cyprus.

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discrimination on grounds of sexual orientation: Cyprus. Policy Document for

Simfiliosi. Available at: http://www.statewatch.org/news/2010/jan/cyprus-

homophobia-report.pdf Running Head: Background 19

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Youth Charter on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights: A rights-based

perspective. Council of Europe, Directorate of Youth and Sport, Strasbourg, France. Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 20

Study 1: Mapping the Socio-political Climate

Margarita Kapsou Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 21

Abstract

This study aimed to collect and map information regarding the types of discourse pertaining to LGBT issues as it appears in contemporary Cypriot media. Relevant documentation about LGB issues collected and analyzed to map the current social and political situation included mainstream newspaper articles, and records of discussions or statements made by key figures for a three year period (2008-2010). Discourse analysis employed included the following indicators: key phrases expressed by politicians or key figures suggesting acceptance or discrimination for LGBT people, frequency and types of homophobic expressions and expressions of opinions, attitudes of decision-makers towards

LGBT rights, type of coverage by the media, and perceptions projected by the media on

LGBT rights.

The main topics covered in relation to LGBT issues included discrimination and violence on the basis of sexual orientation, recognition of LGBT rights as Human Rights and legal recognition of same sex relationships. References to the situation in Cyprus in regards to LGBT issues both in the media and among public figures appeared more frequently in

2010 in comparison to the previous two years, yet the majority of LGBT related articles continues to appear in the international news sections, and thus not discussed as relevant to the local context. Although coverage of LGBT issues in the Cypriot media is mostly confined to back pages and is treated as minor news, a trend toward increased coverage and a more supportive portrayal of LGBT issues both on international level and local level was apparent, especially in 2010. Such progress can contribute to increased visibility of LGBT and promote public dialogue about LGBT rights in Cyprus. Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 22

Aims

Study 1 specifically aimed 1) to collect records documenting and reflecting the public discourse around LGBT topics, including statements and discussions by key public figures,

(e.g. politicians, decision makers, religious leaders) and case studies of rights and discrimination on LGBT issues, and 2) to analyze the topics, climate, extent, and dynamics of the public discourse around LGBT topics during the period of interest. A three year span, starting from the 1 st of January 2008 and ending on the 31 st of December 2010, was defined

as the targeted range of the study.

Since this study constitutes the first systematic attempt to conduct such an analysis

and map the general climate around LGBT issues in Cyprus, as it is being manifested through

the island’s main newspapers, with little background to direct hypotheses or guide

expectations, the questions investigated were, essentially, largely exploratory. More

specifically, we aimed to explore the following questions: 1) How much are LGBT issues

discussed or mentioned in the Cypriot press? 2) What is being discussed or mentioned about

LGBT issues (in other words, which general topics that pertain to the LGBT community are

most frequently presented)? 3) Who discusses LGBT issues? (e.g. whether it is mainly

journalists themselves, or do most positions and commentaries come from other figures, such

as decision makers, politicians, laypersons, and members or representatives of the LGBT

community), 4) Where, i.e. in which newspaper sections and pages, do LGBT appear?, and 5)

How are LGBT issues being presented in these references? In other words, are they being

discussed in a critical manner stimulating debate, or in a merely factual manner? And finally,

are they being portrayed in a positive light, treated in a human rights context, and considered

locally relevant, or are they being portrayed as distant, dark, and unrelated to the reader’s

daily reality? Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 23

Method

Selection of Sources

Following a review of the potential sources of records reflecting public discourse, daily newspapers with island-wide circulation were selected as the most efficient and representative sources of locating records of public discourse. Other potential sources considered included television and radio programs, magazines, weekly and free newspapers, popular news websites, Internet blogs or facebook groups, as well as recordings of parliamentary plenary meetings available on the website of the Cyprus House of

Representatives, statements and official positions issued by political parties, and references to

LGBT issues in minutes from meeting and public panels.

Newspapers were selected as both the most efficient and representative sources for several reasons. First, newspapers have the benefit of accessibility, since most widely circulated newspapers have searchable websites that include archives dating several months or years back. Second, since newspaper articles are text-based, and for the most part, searchable electronically (as opposed to, for example television or radio programs) records can easily be organised by date and topic, thus allowing for the creation of databases for future access, searches and analyses. Third, since newspapers are circulated daily and feature a diverse range of articles, it would allow collection of a substantial bulk of relevant articles and references throughout the three year period of interest, even with limited public discourse, whereas similar references to LGBT- related issues in official documents for instance, such as parliamentary plenary minutes or political party documents were likely to be too scarce to enable meaningful analysis. Fourth and most importantly, daily island-wide newspapers reflect discourse from a diverse range of stakeholders and public figures, including members of parliament, politicians, the Commissioner of Administration

(Ombudswoman), NGO representatives and expert opinions, as well as opinions of the Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 24 general public and readers. Because of this diversity of opinions, newspapers are less likely than other sources (e.g. blogs, or internet groups) to be prone to a self-selection bias in the topics of concern or opinions reflected, and are more likely to closely reflect the diversity of opinions and perspectives throughout the island.

Description of Sources

The most widely circulated island-wide, daily newspapers were selected for this

study. These included newspapers Phileleftheros and Politis, as well as the English language

newspaper . All selected newspapers are independently owned, and not affiliated

with any political party or perspective, and cover national political and local news.

“Phileleftheros” (transliterated as “The Liberal”), established in 1951 has been the most

widely circulated newspaper in Cyprus (readership for 2010 estimated between 115-120,000,

Noverna, 2011; Harris Papageorgiou, personal communication, May 13, 2011) for several

decades. “Politis” (“Citizen”), established in 1999, became popular due to its reputation for a

critical focus, and quickly reached second place in newspaper circulation figures (readership

for 2010 estimated between 60-65,00, Noverna, 2011; Harris Papageorgiou, personal

communication, May 13, 2011). The Cyprus Mail is the only daily (except Mondays) English

language newspaper in the island (several other weekly or monthly publications in English

are also widely circulated, since Cyprus has a significant English-speaking population), and

the oldest newspaper in the island, established in 1945. All three newspapers are read in both

printed and online versions (Phileleftheros and Politis also provide archives of the print

format in pdf versions). The Cyprus Mail recently also introduced a smartphone application.

Data Collection Procedure

A list of keywords relevant to LGBT issues was compiled by the research team and

used to search newspaper websites and archives, in order to retrieve relevant articles. The

keywords included words, terms, and names considered relevant to LGBT issues in Cyprus Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 25

(the full list of keywords is shown on Table 1.1). To ensure consistency across newspapers, the keyword search was the same across all newspapers, and the research assistants conducting the search received training to ensure that all relevant articles across newspapers were retrieved. The search was conducted using Greek words and characters for the Greek- speaking newspapers (Phileleftheros, Politis), except for words for which it is standard to use

Latin characters (e.g. “gay”, “AIDS”), and using English words and characters for Cyprus

Mail. Since archives were structured differently for each newspaper, the search procedure followed was adapted accordingly in each case. Specifically, for Phileleftheros, full files for each day were downloaded in portable document format (pdf) and searched individually through the pdf search function; because the newspaper’s archives for 2008 were not available through the online archive system, pdfs for all 2008 publications were provided by the newspaper upon the researchers’ request. For Politis and Cyprus Mail, the search was mainly conducted through the online search function; because during the last six months of data collection, the Politis website no longer supported a search function, individual pdf editions of the newspaper were downloaded and searched using the pdf search function. The research team made sure to include alternate spellings for keywords in the search procedure

(e.g. « γκέι »,/« γκέυ »); also, to ensure that all instances of the words were recorded, in all forms and conjugations word stems were also used during the search (e.g. « οοφυ -»/« σεξ -

»/«homos-» etc.). Each article was subsequently scanned by the research assistant in order to

verify that the presence of a keyword indeed indicated a relevant reference to LGBT issues.

Articles that were considered relevant were downloaded and archived in a common database,

organised by date and by newspaper, for further scanning, coding, and analysis. References in

newspaper advertisements, or descriptions of movies or television shows were not included.

Article content ranged from mere references to LGBT-related keywords to articles with a

main or exclusive focus on sexual orientation. Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 26

Coding

The aim of the coding procedure was to identify and analyze key phrases expressed by politicians or key figures suggesting acceptance or discrimination for LGBT people, frequency and types of homophobic expressions, attitudes of decision-makers towards LGBT rights, type of coverage by the media, and perceptions projected by the media on LGBT rights. In order to facilitate and standardize this process, the researchers developed a detailed

Code Frame, which defined headings and indicators as codes to collect information. The

Code Frame developed was based on the coding methodology used by the Global Media

Monitoring Project (GMMP, e.g. Gallagher, 2005) and adapted to encompass the themes and patterns of the representation of LGTB issues in the media. The headings and codes aimed to summarize media content into specific thematic categories of interest. The codes used related to the objectives of the analysis and captured the various reactions of key persons to LGBT issues. In addition, the codes aimed to encapsulate not only the specific content of the media representations but also took into account the function of the author, the story angle, the type of language used and the overall feeling conveyed. Headings were provided for several technical characteristics (e.g. page number where it appears, section of newspaper where it appears, type of article, author etc.) as well as contents (e.g. general topic covered, opinions or expressed etc.). The Code Frame contained detailed numerical codes for each heading, in order to provide indicators for the range of different possible responses (e.g. article types, general and specific topic(s) etc.), organised across different levels (e.g. supportiveness vs. opposition opinion expressed for a specific topic such as gay marriage). These codes were used to guide the subsequent thematic analysis and mapping of the social and political landscape and were separated into numbered sections with titles and subtitles and their corresponding number codes. The Code Frame (and specifically the section concerning the content analysis) was set up in a hierarchical tree coding structure, whereby major thematic Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 27 categories are further divided into subcategories. The full coding frame is presented in the

Appendix.

To ensure that the headings and indicators were appropriate and comprehensive, the

Code Frame was adjusted to include additional codes for topics and themes identified

following pilot use with a sample of articles. Coding of all the collected articles resulted in a

series of tables (total of six tables, one per newspaper per year), with each row containing the

complete list of codes for each individual article retrieved. Each newspaper was initially

coded separately, and individual newspaper code frames were merged at the analysis stage

into one comprehensive master list. Both the data collection and coding procedure were

carried out by mostly volunteer research assistants, who received training and supervision

from two professional researchers. A sample of articles were coded by two independent

research assistants and compared in order to ensure reliability of the procedure.

Analysis

For the analysis, both quantitative and qualitative approaches were utilized. Initially

the list of codes were exported into SPSS, and descriptive statistics were used in order to

extract descriptive information, such as the frequency of articles, types of articles and main

topics covered throughout the three year period. Subsequently, more in-depth analyses were

conducted to identify the emerging patterns in the data in terms of the prevalent themes and

attitudes expressed, such as homophobic expressions or criticisms of homophobia, references

to incidents of discrimination and case studies, experiences and views expressed through

interviews. These emerging themes either confirmed or contested original thoughts about

certain behaviours and attitudes with regards to LGTB issues.

Analyses were conducted separately for each newspaper, as well as across

newspapers, aiming to identify overlapping issues, themes and patterns present throughout

the press for the three-year period. Similarly, an overall analysis was conducted for the entire Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 28 three-year time span studied, as well as well as across years, in an effort to delineate changing patterns and trends throughout the period. Both article technical characteristics, such as type of article, as well as content parameters, such as geographical scope covered, and overall attitude expressed or presented, were also taken into account during the analysis. Certain information, however, such as article page number and reporter identity were only summarized in descriptive results where available, and not incorporated in comparative analysis, because they were not available for all newspapers and articles studied.

Comparative analyses were conducted for publication source (newspaper), year, positions presented, and general and specific subjects covered. Finally, it was deemed important to engage in further, critical, in-depth analysis of the discourse pertaining to LGBT issues, as presented in the Cypriot press, since, representations of LGBT portrayals in the press can be important indicators of ongoing public discourse. The analysis was approached from a social constructivist perspective (Vygotsky 1978; Freud, 1994).

Results

Overall quantitative trends

Frequency of references. In total, 314 1 relevant articles were identified and coded.

Content ranged from instances of a single mention of LGBT-related keywords to articles with

a main or exclusive of focus on sexual orientation. Figure 1.1 presents the number of articles

identified for each newspaper per year. The total number of articles, for all newspapers,

appeared to steadily increase throughout the three year period, with the most pronounced

increase noted in 2010. This pattern was observed for all three newspapers. The main patterns

for the article types and content for each newspaper per year are described next. Figures 1.2-

1 Over 555 articles were identified, including articles published in the third most widely circulated Greek language newspaper, “Simerini” during the three-year period of interest (January 1 st 2008 - December 31 st 2010); however, due to restrictions in time and human resources, these articles have not yet been coded. They have been archived in the article database for future coding and analysis. Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 29

1.6 provide an illustration of the coding followed, as they present sample articles and their corresponding coding.

European/International only vs. Local/National focus. Following initial coding,

LGBT related articles were categorized further into articles containing only references to

European or International issues, including articles referring only to events taking place in another country, and into articles that contained at least some reference to the local or national situation (e.g. articles referring exclusively to LGBT issues in Cyprus, or articles discussing LGBT issues throughout Europe, or the world, or another country, but also linking, juxtaposing, or referring to the situation in Cyprus) 2. Throughout all three years, about 56% of articles (N = 180) included at least some reference to the local/national situation. A consistent shift from a predominance of European/International-only focus to a predominance of local focus was apparent throughout the three-year period; the percentage of articles including local/national references increased from about 46% in 2008, to 54% in

2009, and 61% in 2010. As shown on Figure 1.7, the three newspapers presented different patterns in the ratio of articles containing references to local/national issues vis-à-vis articles referring only to LGBT issues in a European or International Context, with the English language Cyprus Mail presenting the largest percentage of articles that include local/national references compared to the Greek language newspapers.

Newspaper Sections. Throughout all three years, in the Greek language newspapers

(section information was not available through Cyprus Mail’s archive system) LGBT- relevant references articles appeared most frequently under “International News” (43%, N

2 As described in the Method section and as can be seen from the Code Frame (see Appendix), initial codes for article characteristics and content described in this paragraph and the paragraphs that follow were multiple and extensive. However, comprehensive presentation and discussion of the distribution for all codes would require extensive elaboration and would exceed the scope of the present report. Thus, for purposes of data reduction and in order to facilitate identification and interpretation of overall patterns, these were subsequently recoded into the broader coding categories presented here. For readers interested in a more detailed presentation and in-depth analysis of particular headings or codes, this information can be made available by the researchers. Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 30

=111), followed by columns/commentary sections (38%, N = 97). However, when each year was analyzed separately, differences in these trends were apparent across the three years studied (see Table 1.3). Specifically, whereas most LGBT-relevant articles in 2008 and 2009 appeared under “International News” sections (68% in 2008 and 61% in 2009), articles found in the column/commentary sections became the most frequent in 2010 (50% of articles, compared to 31% of articles in international news). Differences were also observed between the two newspapers, with articles being most frequent found under “International News” sections in Phileleftheros (36%), and under columns/commentaries for Politis (52%). Finally, whereas articles focusing on European/international events were most frequently found under

“International news” sections (76 %), articles with local/national focus were most frequently found under columns/commentary sections (65%).

Article Types. Throughout the entire time span, over half the articles identified were coded as “informative” (providing state-of-fact information, 55%). Commentaries and opinions were also met relatively frequently (23% and 13% respectively), and some sporadic instances of research reports (11 instances, or 3%) and interviews (7 instances, or 2%) were also identified. None of the articles retrieved was coded as a police report. Separate results for each year, publication source, and geographical focus, are presented on Table 1.4.

Patterns shown on the table document a shift in 2010, whereby the percentage of articles included in the informative category decreases, with a corresponding increase in commentary and opinion articles. A discrepancy is also noted between different newspapers, with the

English language Cyprus Mail containing a far larger percentage of commentary articles

(50%) compared to the Greek language Phileleftheros and Politis (8% and 23% respectively), and a far lower percentage of merely informative articles (30%) compared to the Greek language newspapers, where this category was consistently dominant (67% of articles for

Phileleftheros and 58% for Politis). Finally, distribution of article types appears notably Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 31 different between articles including local/national focus, versus only European/International focus; whereas article types in the former category were almost equally likely to be coded as commentary (38%), informative (29%) or opinion articles (21%), articles in the latter category were almost exclusively coded as “informative” (88%).

General Subjects Covered. Figures 1.8-1.11 present the frequency of general subjects covered overall and by newspaper, according to the categories provided in the Code Frame.

Across all years and publication sources, the most popular topic was marriage or partnership equality (legal recognition of same-sex relationships, over 100 references). Criticism of homophobia, promotion of LGBT rights, recognition of LGBT rights as human rights, and discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation were also quite prevalent (over 40 references each), followed by general subjects pertaining to gender identity/expression and association, religion and homosexuality, and violence or psychological abuse on the basis of sexual orientation (over 20 references each). The remaining subjects (presentation of positions, research data, science and homosexuality, personal experiences, and active support) were sporadic, (fewer than 10 references in each case), with discussions of “cultural beliefs and homosexuality” 3 being the least frequent of all.

As can be seen in Figures 1.9-1.11, most and least popular themes presented different

patterns between publication sources, although the topic of marriage/partnership equality

consistently received the greatest percentage of coverage across all the newspapers. In

Phileleftheros, the second most popular general subject identified was recognition of LGBT

rights as human rights, along with the theme of Religion and Homosexuality. For Politis, the

theme most frequently identified following the theme of marriage/partnership equality was

promotion of LGBT rights and support to LGBT persons, followed by criticism of

homophobia. For Cyprus Mail, the second most frequently identified theme was

3 As per the codeframe used for the purposes of the present study (see Appendix), “cultural beliefs” under included gender roles, historical perspectives and patriarchical society; stereotypes/taboos, that could, conceptually, be considered as stereotypes, were coded separately. Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 32 discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, followed by criticism of homophobia. Least frequently identified topics for Phileleftheros were positions presented, science and homosexuality, and gender identity/expression and association; for Politis, positions presented and active support to LGBT; and for Cyprus Mail, active support to LGBT and cultural beliefs and homosexuality. General subjects focusing on personal experiences were absent for Phileleftheros, and cultural beliefs and homosexuality, political positions, and research data, were absent for Politis and Cyprus Mail, although these themes may have been presented or discussed as subsidiary in the context of some articles.

Neutral vs. Positive vs. Negative attitudes expressed or presented. Coded articles were

further subdivided into articles containing or presenting predominantly positive, negative, or

neutral (or “no-attitude”) attitudes toward LGBT rights. Attitudes could consist of attitudes of

article authors, or of another figure or figures whose positions or statements are being

presented. Positions were coded as neutral (“no-attitude”) if the article presented factual-only

information, without condoning or condemning the presented fact, nor presenting another

figure’s position. Articles presenting debates and disagreements from both sides, without the

author taking position, were also coded as neutral. Articles containing even partial support for

LGBT rights, even if this was somewhat qualified (e.g. positions supporting civil partnership

for same-sex couples but not marriage, or not making references to marriage) were coded as

positive. Based on this classification, throughout the three-year span, about 42% of articles

presented neutral or no attitude, 41% presented an overall positive attitude toward LGBT

rights, and 17% presented an overall negative attitude. The percentage for article positions

per year is shown on Table 1.2. As shown on the Table, articles were predominantly positive

in 2008 and 2010, predominantly neutral or without expressing opinion in 2009, while 2010

presented a notable increase in negative attitudes expressed compared to previous years.

These trends were also analyzed separately for articles with a mainly local/national and with Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 33 only European/international focus (see Table 1.2). This analysis revealed an overall tendency for articles with European/international focus to be predominantly factual, and hence to be more likely to maintain a neutral or no-attitude stance, compared to articles containing references to the local/national situation, which more frequently presented opinions, both positive and negative(to varying degrees). A more in-depth analysis of opinions presented for two of the most popular general subjects identified (recognition of same-sex partnerships, and criticism of homophobia) is included in the next section.

Content Analysis by Newspaper

Phileleftheros. In 2008, 11 relevant articles were identified, mostly in the newspaper’s middle pages (13-20), and sections covering international news and events (“World”), with little or no explicit link or reference to Cypriot reality. One major exception was identified in the newspaper’s opinion section (Charalambous, 2008, p.19), where readers were asked to express their opinions about the prospect of legalizing same-sex marriage in Cyprus; in this article readers’ expressed opinions appeared mixed, while the article headlines and commentary section characterized public opinion on the matter as “divided”, and concluded that, due to the prevalent taboos and confusion, the prospect of legalizing same-sex marriage appears “impossible”. The commentator went on to highlight the need for “tackling the homophobia characteristic of Cypriots”, stating that “in European Cyprus, in 2008, it is inconceivable for homosexuality to be treated as a disease or some kind of disability”. With the exception of this article, all other references were mostly factual, with no opinion being expressed, nor presented by the authors. Some articles also presented and discussed ongoing developments about legalization of same-sex partnerships in Greece (e.g. Homosexuals in

Greece call for Marriage, 2008, p. 13; Psara, 2008, p. 13). No references or reports about the

2008 LGBT pride events in Athens were identified. Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 34

In 2009, 23 relevant articles were identified, which, although increased in number, continued a largely similar pattern with the previous year. Relevant references being identified mostly in middle pages (14-17), although a single front page reference was identified (Hadjistylianou, 2009, p. 1). Most articles remained predominantly factual, with no opinions being expressed or presented, and presented under international sections (most articles under the section “World”), although references to the local or national situation were more frequent compared to 2008. Notably, most locally relevant articles (three of five total) were identified, in relation to HIV/AIDS. Perhaps because of this trend, for 2009, the predominant general subject identified was “discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation”, rather than marriage/partnership equality. More specifically, one article,

(Kasinidou, 2009, p.40), referred to a research study aiming to study the “sexual behaviour of homosexual men, with the main aim to inform them about sexual health issues and especially

HIV”. A second article (Kasinidou, 2009, p. 31), with the tagline “we are holding the sceptres of discrimination against homosexuals”, referred to sexual orientation in the context of AIDS.

The article made references to “statistical evidence presenting Cyprus as the country with the most discrimination toward homosexual persons (percentages of discrimination are double those of the European average)…”.A third article, (Panagi, 2009, p. 29), presented two case studies of persons living with HIV in Cyprus, including a 30 year old gay man. The article places extensive emphasis on the person’s experiences of rejection by their family and the wider Cypriot society, because of his sexual orientation:

“Two years later, he disclosed to his parents the fact that he was homosexual, and as he states, ‘their

reaction was the same with the one that almost all Cypriot parents have on such occasions. They

rejected me’”.

Later on, the article presents this rejection as related to the lack of a support network for the HIV positive individual following diagnosis, and to his experiences of identity conflict in his daily life: Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 35

“I am the professional, who, of course, is not homosexual. I am the homosexual who cannot have his

personal life, and I am also my real self, the young, professional, homosexual patient with AIDS.”

Another article (Dalitis, 2009, p. 32), presented a study conducted by a local university on diversity and racism, and highlighted the observation that young people are more receptive and “tolerant” to diversity, including sexual orientation, compared to older individuals.

Finally, earlier in the year, one front page article (Hadjistylianou, 2009, p. 1) referred to recent Cypriot hotel owners’ “turn” toward “homosexual couples” by listing hotels and villas as “gay friendly”, and further discussed this as trend already under way in the Northern part of the island.

The overall coverage and percentage of local references continued to increase in

2010. In total, 54 relevant articles were identified; although a substantial percentage of these

were still found under the international news section (“World”), LGBT-relevant articles

which appeared on a greater range of page numbers and sections, with a significant

proportion of articles appearing under locally relevant newspaper sections such as columns,

letters, opinions, politics, and local news. This changing trend was also reflected in the noted

increases in percentages of articles classified as locally relevant, and discussing, for the most

part, the general subject of marriage/partnership equality. Although the newspaper’s stance

appeared to remain mostly neutral, opinion pieces by readers or external commentators that

did express opinions of both pro- and anti-LGBT rights perspectives were published. Some

articles were critical of comments or behaviours that were perceived as homophobic, and

included an opinion by conservative party DH.SY’s youth sector member Xenia

Constantinou (Constantinou, X., 2010, p. 35) and a reader’s letter (Charalambous, 2010, p.

8); other articles rejected LGBT rights as human rights and described LGBT rights

campaigns as “offensive”, such as an article by conservative party MP Andreas Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 36

Themistocleous (Themistocleous, 2010, p. 6) 4, and a reader’s letter, “protesting” in response

to an antidiscrimination advert (Nicolaou Christou, 2010, p. 8).

Phileleftheros’ increased coverage of LGBT issues as locally or nationally relevant

throughout 2010, is best illustrated by a full page presentation and interview of gay activist

Alecos Modinos (Hadjistylianou, 2010, p. 27), describing his experiences as an activist and

commenting on the current situation, and a half-page long reference to the launching of

accept-LGBT Cyprus (Panagi, 2010, p. 21). Discussions of claims to marriage and

partnership equality were rather frequent (e.g. Hadjistylianou, 2010, p. 32; p. 40), and even

appeared on the first page (Hadjistylianou, 2010, p. 1), while several commentaries on the

notorious public statements made by MP Mr. Andreas Themistocleous also appeared (e.g.

Hadjidimitriou, 2010a, Hadjistylianou, 2010, p. 40).

Politis. In 2008, 27 relevant articles were identified, mostly found in the paper’s

middle pages (pp. 13-48), and mostly under “International” news sections. The most

frequently identified general subject pertained to marriage and partnership equality,

presenting both international efforts and developments (e.g. Gay priest married his partner

with religious wedding, 2008, p. 9; What might God tell us? About gays. 2008, p.9), as well

as statements made by the Commissioner of Administration on a national level (Kalatzis,

2008, p. 48). Cypriot MEP Marios Matsakis’ reaction to an LGBT-campaign in the European

Parliament, which he described as “offensive”, also captured the newspaper’s attention

(Ntziani, 2008, p. 41) 5. The campaign involved a photo exhibition entitled “Different

4 Conservative party DH.SY.’s MP, Mr. Andreas Themistocleous, through a series of anti-LGBT statements, stirred considerable debate around LGBT issues in early and mid-2010, and received considerable media coverage and criticism. Mr. Themistocleous’ initial statement, in verbatim were: “just because there exist among us paedophiles, people who practice bestiality, necrophiliacs and other criminals, should the state legitimise their status too?”; this was followed by several additional statements and articles furthering his anti-LGBT position. These are explicated and discusses in more detail in the Discussion section of the present report. 5 In 2008, Cypriot MEP Dr. Marios Matsakis (of the Alliance of Liberals and Democrats for Europe), reacted to an invitation to the exhibition “Different Families, Same Love”, at the , by stating that he was “offended” by the images of LGBT families displayed on the invitation. The exhibition presented posters portraying LGBT families. Following posters being posted outside Dr. Matsakis’ office, the MEP Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 37

Families, Same Love”, which the MEP criticized as “offensive”, evoking criticism by LGBT rights groups and admonishment by the European Parliament. Most articles maintained a neutral stance or did not express or present an opinion, but of those articles that did present opinions, some criticized anti-LGBT statements or acts, such as the authorities’ refusal to grant political asylum to a gay man (Costakopoulos, 2008, p. 48), others presented the marriage equality issue in a light-hearted manner, talking about “Weddings for all tastes…”

(2008, p.9), while one small reference to the opinion of the Greek Orthodox Church which

“condemns” homosexuality (Church: No comment, 2008, p. 48) was also included. No reference to Athens Pride events for 2008 was identified.

Throughout 2009, the number of LGBT-relevant articles identified slightly increased

(34 such articles) compared to the previous year, covered a greater range of pages (pp. 9-40), but again were predominantly located under “international” news sections, with little reference to the local or national situation, and the newspaper’s stance remaining, for the most part, neutral. Discrimination based on sexual orientation was the subject presented most frequently (e.g. Racism against gays, p. 10; Andreou, 2009, p. 10). Instances of locally relevant articles that included opinions included an article that described Cypriots as “other- phobic”, and articles that presented Eurobarometer results, according to which the second most prevalent type of discrimination in Cyprus and Greece (with ethnic identity being the first), is discrimination based on “sexual preference” (Sarantopoulou, T., 2009, p. 41), and an article presenting the case of a young gay prison guard who filed a complaint to the

Commissioner of Administration for unfair treatment because of his sexual orientation

(Kalatzis, 2009, p. 21).

In 2010, Politis presented both a dramatic increase in the number of LGBT-relevant

articles identified, and a dramatic shift in content, compared to the previous two years. This

wrote a protest letter to the President of the European Parliament. Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 38 was reflected by an increase in page span (pp.3-74), as well as a change in sections where such articles appeared, with more articles appearing under locally or nationally relevant column sections, rather than international sections. The main focus shifted from a mostly international, to a largely national or local focus, with numerous commentaries (about 50), opinion pieces (40), interviews (16), and letters (50). Opinions and experiences of LGBT persons were increasingly presented through interviews (e.g. Lysandrou 2010, p. 22), or by

LGBT persons themselves through letters and opinion pieces, albeit anonymously or using pseudonyms (e.g. O Toioutos, 2010a, p.3; 2010b, p.3; 2010c., p.3; Ch.I., 2010, p. 14), even with one gay persona (using the pseudonym “O Toioutos”, literally “of that kind”, an anachronistic epithet for “gay”) appearing in a recurring column (« Υπογάστριο » or

“Underbelly”) under a section called “Window”, dealing with LGBT issues from a first- person perspective and written in the Cypriot Greek dialect. Discrimination against LGBT persons, homophobia, and marriage and partnership equality, centring around requests of same-sex relationship recognition by Cypriots, and discussions of the possibility of regulating civil marriage or partnership arrangements for same-sex couples in Cyprus, were among he frequently presented and discussed subjects (e.g. Savva, 2010, p. 41; Kalatzis, 2010, p. 38).

Although both pro- and anti-LGBT rights opinions were presented and hosted (e.g.

Theocharous, 2010, p. 12; Themistocleous, 2010, p.14; Theodosiou, 2010, p. 12), the newspaper’s journalists, commentators, and host authors, heavily criticized and even mocked

Mr. Themistocleous’ anti-LGBT statements (e.g. Stavrinides, 2010, p. 67; Papaleontiou,

2010, p.14; Sinigoros, 2010b, p. 9), as well as his political party’s (Democratic Rally,

DH.SY) failure to discipline their MP and apologize for the irate comments (e.g. “Playing the fool” today as well, Mr. Anastasiades?, 2010, p. 13; Constantinou, C., 2010b, p. 13). These commentary and opinion pieces used emphatic titles such as “Internationally ridiculed”

(Constantinou, C., 2010, p.4), “Homophobic, not …. conveniently hermaphrodite” (referring Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 39 to political party DH.SY.’s conspicuously ambiguous reaction to their MP’s statements;

Constantinou, C., 2010c, p.13) and “He insists, misdirects, and vilifies you” (referring to MP

Mr. Andreas Themistocleous and addressed to his political party DH.SY.; 2010, p. 13), and often employed harsh language to highlight what was perceived as failure of the authorities to secure basic human rights, and conspicuous efforts of political leaders to avoid discussions and evade responsibility. One article, for instance, describes the authorities’ handling of the case of an HIV positive British citizen, who was arrested, and nearly deported, as

“unacceptable”, claiming that “they [the authorities] messed up”, and are now “exposed”

(Kalatzis, 2010, p. 62). Another commentary article directly addresses the Democratic

Rally’s president, , following a letter sent to the column’s author by Mr.

Andreas Themistocleous’ lawyer, threatening for libel lawsuits for calling the MP “a racist” in a previous article commentary. In response to the libel threats, the article addresses the party’s president, calling him to give his MP “two words of advice”, and comments the following:

“If, however, Mr. Anastasiades, any MPs of yours think that, while stating such squalors (asking for returns, instead of withdrawing them), the media and any other citizens feel disgust when they hear them, then they should shut up, and, when they don’t do so, they should be threatened with lawsuits, then it might be a good idea to give them two words of advice. Two words about what you (or at least what you claim to) represent as a political party. Otherwise, you should close off the (so European, otherwise) club. Because, either you cannot handle them, or you know and approve of these intimidation tactics. Either way, we DO NOT WITHDRAW one letter from what we wrote. Not even half.” (Constantinou, C., 2010d, p. 13; capitals in original).

The public television network’s (CyBC) refusal to air anti-discrimination public

announcement commercials also received profound criticism through the newspaper’s

commentators (e.g. O Toioutos, 2010b, p. 3; Sinigoros 2010a, p. 9). On the other hand,

several positive commentaries and presentations on the launching and activities of accept-

LGBT Cyprus were published around the same time period (e.g. Hadjiapostolou, P., 2010, p.

37; Hoplarou, 2010b, p. 25). One commentator, notably, commends accept-LGBT Cyprus’

efforts, for “shaking” the prevalent “hypocrisy” (He is somewhere. And does not bite…!

2010, p. 13). A growing appetite for critical discourse and social critique, that appeared to be Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 40 lacking in previous years, is found in articles such as and in-depth theoretical analysis of the deep links between social homophobia and religion in a reader’s letter on behalf of the

Cyprus Freethinkers Society (Savvides, 2010, p. 42), and a column reviewing the various cultural and historical perceptions and manifestations of homosexuality, entitled “Were there gays in 1700 B.C.?” (Hoplarou, 2010a, p. 25). Such articles may illustrate an ongoing social maturation process that was underway in public discourse at the time, and that was reflected in the press.

Cyprus Mail 6. In 2008, 20 relevant articles were identified, which included references to both the local/national, and European/international context, and which dealt with a variety of topics, including positions on LGBT rights, sexual identity and expression, marriage and partnership equality, and support for LGBT rights (e.g. Christou, 2008b; Leonidou, 2008;

Evripidou, 2008a; 2008d), and criticism of the prevailing homophobic attitudes throughout

Cyprus (Cypriots admit to widespread discrimination, 2008), including one article presenting personal experiences (27 July 2008, by Jill Campbell McKay). A topic that captured the newspaper’s attention and evoked commentaries was Cypriot MEP Marios Matsakis’ reaction to an LGBT-campaign in the European Parliament (e.g. Evripidou, 2008b; 2008c; Christou,

2008a; Cashman, 2008). Anti-LGBT commentaries, primarily from reader’s letters, were also published (e.g. Demetriou, 2008).

In 2009, 12 relevant articles were identified, consisting mainly of commentaries,

opinions, and research. The newspaper continued to place equal focus on local/national and

6 Indicators such as page numbers and newspaper sections where the articles appeared are not reported for Cyprus Mail. The newspaper’s electronic database was based on an electronic search function that yielded web-based versions of articles, which did not include references to the corresponding sections and page numbers of the original publication. Since no pdf archives in the original printed format were available through the Cyprus Mail’s website, which could have provided an alternate search mechanism yielding information including original page number and section, this information was not retrieved for Cyprus Mail. Furthermore, because of these differences in the newspaper’s online search system, some articles that were published in the newspaper’s print version, but not included in the newspaper’s online version, may have not been retrieved. We do, however, believe that the sample of articles collected is adequately representative of the newspaper’s overall treatment of LGBT issues, since any smaller references not included may be considered of lesser importance by the newspaper itself. Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 41

European/international events and issues, while on two occasions, the experiences of LGBT persons were presented (Jacques, 2009; Christodoulides, 2009). Most frequently identified general subjects were marriage and partnership equality, discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, and recognition of LGBT rights as human rights (e.g. Theodoulou, 2009;

Hassapi, 2009; Time to decide whether you support human rights for all, 2009). Similar patterns were repeated for the 24 articles identified in 2010, with the local/national news becoming more frequent than European/international, and the marriage/partnership equality issue remaining primary (e.g. Charalambous, 2010) and treated as more urgent compared to references made in previous years. One article, for instance, reporting on the

Ombudswoman’s report on partnership equality, talks of the Ombudswoman, Iliana Nicolaou calling the legal recognition of same-sex partnerships in Cyprus as “imperative in today’s society”, and noting that “The need to legally enshrine cohabitation becomes more urgent”

(Evripidou, 2010a). Numerous articles and commentaries discussed MP’s Andreas

Themistocleous comments (e.g. Hazou 2010; 30 April 2010; Agathocleous, 2010; Evripidou

2010b), and at least one commentary about CyBC’s refusal to air anti-discrimination spots

(Dewhurst, 2010a). Despite the newspaper’s tendency to maintain a predominantly neutral stance, various opinions were also presented. Some letters expressed attitudes criticizing homophobia (e.g. Marios A., 2010; Mackay, 2010), and some articles explicitly supported gay rights including gay marriage (e.g. O’Hara, 2010; Evripidou, 2010c), or criticized the prevailing homophobic attitudes in Cyprus (e.g. Cyprus fingered again over negative attitude to gays, 2009), while some readers letters expressed doubts about LGBT rights (Demtetriou,

2008; A. Dinou, 2010) was also featured. Pro-LGBT attitudes were expressed both from a human rights but also from an economic perspective (e.g. Dewhurst, 2010b). The latter article, features the opinions of owners and managers of same-sex marriage and honeymoon firms, who claim that opening up the gay marriage market could significantly boost the Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 42 island’s economy, but presents the hesitation for such a move on the part of the Cypriot wedding and tourist industry who appear “pessimistic about Cypriots' readiness to accept gay marriage”; the article’s author describes the Cyprus wedding tourist industry as “slow to sense opportunity in this sector”, and proposes that the economy can be “another issue that could sway the debate”, in addition to the “the moral and legal issues … disputed by campaigners”.

Overall Content Analysis and Mapping

Mapping opinions in LGBT discourse: Stakeholders, LGBT allies and Opposition. A

general mapping of stakeholders was initially conducted taking into account that one article

could be presenting or expressing various opinions. This analysis was therefore conducted on

the level of opinions rather than on the level of individual articles, and examined the

identities and functions of article authors, and of figures whose opinions on a variety of

LGBT issues were expressed or presented through the collected articles. Apart from

journalists, some articles and opinions pieces were written by newspaper readers, politicians

and diplomats, NGO representatives, other experts (e.g. academics, lawyers), and LGBT

persons. The main categories of actors and stakeholders, whose opinions were expressed or

presented were: Representatives of NGOs, LGBT groups, activists, and LGBT persons;

politicians, including national Ministers, members of parliament, and political party

representatives and members; government authorities, primarily the Commissioner of

Administration and the Equality Authority - against racism and discrimination;

representatives of the business/industry sector, and media representatives: foreign diplomats,

foreign and EU officials, and MEPs; academics; religious figures; and, to a lesser extent,

police representatives, judges, lawyers, educators, laypersons, and young persons. Overall,

the main stakeholders identified as allies, along with LGBT and other NGOs and activists,

were the Ombudswoman and the Equality Authority; with few exceptions, religious figures, Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 43 both nationally and abroad were the most negative; while opinions of other national officials, politicians, the local business/industry and media sectors, as well as laypersons, were rather mixed, with a wide spectrum of opinions ranging from strong opposition, neutral or mixed attitude, and explicit support being expert throughout.

In order to obtain a more analytical examination of the discourse generated by the various stakeholders, and enable a mapping of the socio-political landscape, a thorough, in- depth analysis was conducted for the spectrum of opinions presented for the most popular general subject identified, namely recognition of same-sex partnerships. A combination of quantitative and qualitative approaches was employed for this purpose. For this analysis, we were distinctively interested in opinions expressed on a local/national level. Therefore, opinions expressed in articles with solely European or international focus, were not considered.

Spectrum of views on Marriage/Partnership Equality . According to the subheadings and indicators defined in our code frame (see Appendix), the spectrum of opinions on

Marriage Partnership Equality could range across six levels for marriage and partnership equality, ranging with one pole (anti-LGBT) being “opposes civil partnership and same-sex marriage”, the other (pro-LGBT pole) being “supports civil partnership and same-sex marriage”, and in-between opinions such as “partly supports same-sex unions under certain preconditions and presumptions”, and “supports civil partnership but not same-sex marriage”.

Four additional code levels indicated support or opposition to the right of LGBT people to found a family. This process resulted in a mapping each of the various individual stakeholders on one of three broad levels (opposes, neutral/mixed opinion, and supportive), on the pro- and anti- spectrum regarding same-sex marriage. The resulting classification is presented on Table 1.5. A sample of statements across the opinion spectrum was then further Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 44 scrutinized for their actual content, vocabulary and arguments used. Below, some indicative statements of positions classified as “supportive”, “mixed”, or “opposing”, are presented:

Supportive:

Political/Rights-based:

“In addition, the institution of a "Partnership" responds not only to the evolutionary and readjusting trend in modern society, but also removes discrimination and consolidates the egalitarianism of all citizens regardless of sexual orientation. That is, the “Partnership” can be seen in the state an effective “cure” for the gap that currently exists in relation to safeguarding the rights of gay couples, provided of course that the “Partnership” will be applied without discrimination. (Constantinou, X, Member of DH.SY. conservative party youth sector, 2010, p. 37).

“By allowing same-sex marriages, recognition is achieved for yet another human right, that has to do with the right to freedom of personal choice” (Marilena Kai, newspaper reader, in Charalambous, 2010, p. 39).

Legal:

“In practice, the introduction of regulation for the legal recognition of cohabitation between individuals of the same and opposite sex would be a pragmatic response to a real social need” (Iliana Nicolaou, Ombudswoman, in Evripidou, 2010a).

“Because we should not forget that the institution of marriage, apart from the recognition of feelings and bonding between two people, is also a legal safeguard of all the benefits it brings (financial, inheritance, etc.), and its denial to gay couples is extremely unfair.” (Yiannis Hunter, newspaper reader, in Charalambous, 2010, p. 39).

Economic:

“If Cyprus legalises same sex marriage for non-residents, this could open up a flood gate of couples, with hundreds coming every year.” (Gino Meriano, owner of Pinkweddings.biz, in Dewhurst, 2010b).

Mixed:

“I believe that Cypriot society is unprepared to accept that.” (Michalis Michael, in Charalambous, 2010, p. 39).

Opposing:

Ethical/“against nature”:

“it would implicitly question the nature of people and lead to confusion in their choices.” (Andreas Themistocleous, DH.SY. conservative party MP, 2010, p. 14).

“I completely disagree with gay marriage. Homosexuality is not included in the laws of nature and negates our ethics and principles.” (Stalo Panagidou Pilava, newspaper reader, in Charalambous, 2008, p. 19).

Miscellaneous consequences: Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 45

“If we start legalizing homosexuality, and installing it in the minds of our young people, by voting laws and publicizing the marriages and celebrations of homosexuals, then disaster is inevitable.” (Christakis Christodoulou, newspaper reader, in Charalambous, 2008, p. 19).

“A society obliged to mine its very own constituent base, and allow the errors or exceptions of nature, or people's vices, to drag its course, is doomed sooner or later, to become Orwellian.” (Andreas Themistocleous, DH.SY. conservative party MP, 2010, p. 14).

“I personally am not in favour of this event because of the implications it will have. In the future, gays will ask to adopt and children. Where will the institution of family go, and its standards, a father, a mother? This will eventually create a huge social problem, which as usual, the children will be called to pay for.” (Antigone Soteriadou, newspaper reader, in Charalambous, 2008, p. 19).

Economic:

“Same-sex relationships mostly serve the pleasure of people who participate in them, and contribute little or no to investing in human resources in society. Certainly, equating the two forms of relationships may lead to subsidizing homosexual relationships at the expense of heterosexual ones, because of the limited resources available. The dilemma that emerges in this case, is whether the state wants us to give incentives to investment, or simply to encourage consumption at the expense of investment. My position is that we need to encourage investment.” (Panayiotis Theodosiou, Professor of Finance, Cyprus University of Technology, 2010, p. 12).

At least one case was noted where the person’s opinion appeared to shift throughout

the three-year period. Specifically, Member of Parliament and later MEP, Dr. Eleni

Theocharous, of the conservative DH.SY., was quoted, during an analysis of opinions

expressed prior to the 2006 national parliamentary elections, as being “against” same-sex

marriage (Savva, 2010, p. 41). An article in 2009 (Theodoulou, 2009,), presented Dr.

Theocharous commenting on a Sexual Health and Rights Charter published by young

Europeans. Theocharous overall supported the positions in the Charter, but pointed out “one

or two points we [DH.SY] do not completely agree with”, one of them being gay couples

adopting children, arguing that “Cypriot society is not yet ready”. Because Theocharous

expressed her overall support for the Charter, which calls for same-sex marriage, but raised

concerns specifically for the issue of adoption, her opinion as presented in this article was

rated as “mixed”. Subsequently, in 2010, in a letter to newspaper Politis, Dr. Theocharous

wished to clarify her position (Theocharous, 2010, p.12). In this article, Dr. Theocharous

presented the issue of same-sex marriage as a complex one, asking whether one “can answer Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 46 with a simple ‘yes’ or ‘no’ to such a question”. The MEP, apparently referring to the article by Savva (2010, p. 41), went on to criticize any “division of those who express public political opinion into ‘for’ and ‘against’ same-sex marriage based on any positions possibly expressed five years ago”. She argued that such an effort “is not objective, and does not serve toward the resolution of the problem. Besides, three to five years is enough time for someone to change their mind”. Most importantly, however, the MEP concluded her article as follows:

“It is the birthright of every citizen to regulate his relationship before the state and society, but especially before his or her partner. And to freely transfer any transfers assets, pension and civil rights to any person he or she wishes, legally and freely. Of course, we are talking about political civil partnership, and mutual commitment. For a religious marriage, the power to decide lies with the Church and, the religion in which everyone belongs to and believes in. We therefore need to consolidate the legal rights of gay people and to protect them from any discrimination. Furthermore, we must strive continuously to ensure all human rights of all Cypriot citizens, and not undermine them by our yielding and our inadequacies, because this constitutes a dangerous undermining of a settlement for the Cyprus problem.” (Theocharous, 2010, p. 12).

In sum, overall, pro- same-sex marriage arguments rested primarily on legal and human-rights grounds, with occasional references to economic benefits. Opinions classified as “mixed” mostly relied on the “social acceptance” argument, refraining, in other words from a clearly supportive or oppositional stand, by transferring the responsibility to the conservative Cypriot society, which is not, it is argued, yet ready to accept such a development. Positions against same-sex marriage relied, for the most part, on the position that is “against nature” or “against ethics” and would bring about

“consequences” (though no specific examples of such consequences were presented, although occasional rather vague warnings were given about ramifications for “family standards” and “children”). One isolated example (Theodosiou, 2010, p. 12), presented an “investment”-based, economic argument, against same-sex marriage.

Phileleftheros newspaper, in the context of its column “Write your Opinion”, invited its readers to express their positions on same-sex marriage twice during the 3- year period studied (in August 2008, and in January 2010; Charalambous, 2008, p.19;

2010, p. 39). This presented an interesting opportunity to compare the evolution of Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 47 public opinion and discourse on the matter throughout this period. Although the article’s editor, in both cases, described reader’s presented opinions as “divided”, careful examination of the reader’s opinions published, reveals a shift between the two years in the opinions expressed, in favour of same-sex marriage. The percentage of opinions expressed against same-sex marriage in 2010 was notably lower compared to

2008 (of 17 reader’s opinions presented, two readers expressed opinions clearly against, and one opinion was mixed in 2010, compared to six of 18 opinions that were clearly against same-sex marriage in 2008; remaining responses, in both cases, were clearly pro- same-sex marriage). A greater compilation of arguments in favour of same-sex marriage, based on human rights, need to eliminate discrimination, and recognition of the legal and practical need for regulating same-sex relationships, appeared throughout the reader’s positions presented in 2010 compared to 2008.

Discussion

This study presents valuable results regarding the sociopolitical climate pertaining to

LGBT issues in Cyprus. It comprises the first systematic attempt to collect and analyze the

extent and quality of portrayal of LGBT issues in national newspapers.

Since newspapers are among those institutions that influence social perceptions and

shape social reality (McCombs & Shaw, 1972), the main issues presented as associated with

LGBT issues through newspapers, and representations and discourse associated with the

presented issues, are potentially critical in reflecting ongoing public discourse, while

simultaneously shaping the socio-political climate around LGBT issues (e.g. Aarons, 2003;

Padva, 2007; Moscowitz, 2010). International studies of the relation between media

representations and the wider socio-political climate document instances of the media

shaping or perpetuating stereotypes, of a specific gender or ethnic group, for instance, by

over projecting instances of stereotypical behaviours, that does not necessarily correspond to Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 48 behaviour as it occurs in everyday reality (e.g. van Dijk, 1989; Ungerleider, 1991; Talbot,

2003). Newspapers are able to actively shape and direct discourse, as they have the capacity to be selective and partial with regards to what issues are being presented and discussed, and which ones are not. Although often presenting the illusion as being such, newspaper texts are neither accurate, nor faithful representations of reality, but rather act through the filters and biases of society’s own preconceptions, perceived reader’s needs, and the author’s or the newspapers underlying philosophy.

The most pronounced pattern observed in the frequency of articles published in the

three year period of study, for all newspapers studied, was the great increase in articles

published in 2010 compared to the previous two years, particularly for the Greek language

newspapers. This was probably due to the attention captured by one or two provocative

public statements, especially a statement made by MP Mr. Andreas Themistocleous of the

conservative Democratic Rally party (DH.SY), during a radio program on March 2010, and

later published in Phileleftheros (Hadjistylianou, 2010, p. 40) in response to a report issued

by the Ombudswoman following complaints by LGBT individuals about human rights

violations on the basis of sexual orientation (Nicolaou, 2010), and particularly denial of

asylum and residency to their same-sex partners or spouses. Mr. Themistocleous’ statement,

in verbatim “just because there exist among us paedophiles, people who practice bestiality,

necrophiliacs and other criminals, should the state legitimise their status too?” 7, stimulated heavy criticism and condemnation from the Media as well from other public figures, and apparently acted as a trigger for further debate on LGBT issues. Commentators from the newspaper Politis appeared especially critical of the statement, while the newspaper published several reactions from public figures, experts (e.g. academics), and citizens criticizing the statements as unfounded and homophobic (e.g. Constantinou, X., 2010, p. 35;

7 Original statement, verbatim, in Greek: «Με το ίδιο σκεπτικό επειδή συναντάε στην κοινωνία ας και παιδόφιλους , κτηνοβάτες , νεκρόφιλους και εγκληατίες , θα πρέπει το κράτος να προσδώσει στις πράξεις τους έννοες συνέπειες ;», Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 49

Mackay, 2010), but also furthering arguments for and against gay rights (e.g. Theodosiou,

2010, p. 12). References were also made to the intervention of the European Parliament’s

LGBT intergroup, asking Mr. Themistocleous to withdraw his statements and apologize, as well as the correspondence between the two parties that followed (e.g. Constantinou, C.,

2010, p.4).

A subsequent event that added to the controversy and contributed to the increased

coverage, though less pronounced in its impact than Mr. Andreas Themistocleous’

statements, was the refusal by the public radio and television network (Cyprus Broadcasting

Corporation, or CyBC), to air antidiscrimination spots around the issue of sexual orientation

(specifically a radio spot featuring a woman talking about her relationship with another

woman). CyBC Director General, -incidentally- called Mr. Themis Themistocleous, backed

up his refusal by claiming that the advertisements were “too advanced” for Cypriot society.

The spots were part of a wider antidiscrimination campaign sponsored by the Equality

Authority at the office of the Commissioner of Administration, and covered a range of

antidiscrimination themes (e.g. discrimination based on age, ethnicity, disability etc.), the rest

of which were deemed as acceptable by the CyBC authorities. Commentaries and references

in the press mostly criticized the public network’s stance (e.g. Hadjidimitriou, 2010b, p.2)

although opinions supporting it were also expressed. For instance, a reader’s letter to the

newspaper Phileleftheros “protested” about the inappropriateness of the lesbian-themed

antidiscrimination commercial aired by private channels and praised the CyBC’s stance of

refusal to air the “offensive” spot (Nicolaou Christou, 2010, p.8).

Moreover, the founding, first activities, and thus increasing visibility of accept-LGBT

Cyprus, the first formal LGBT-rights groups in Cyprus 8, coincided with the developments

8 The first organised entity/group dealing with LGBT rights in Cyprus was the “Cyprus Gay Liberation Movement” (AKOK), founded by Mr. Alecos Modinos and other anonymous activists is 1987 (for historical background, see Introduction). The group was never officially registered as a Non-Governmental Organization, and with few exceptions, its members remained anonymous throughout its history. Therefore, Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 50 described above, further contributing to the increased media coverage of LGBT rights. A press conference held on May 17 th 2010 (International Day Against Homophobia) announced the founding of the group, its visions and goals, and received adequate coverage in the press

(e.g. Hadjiapostolou, 2010, p. 37; Evripidou, 2010c; Panagi, 2010).

Even though the increase in references between 2009 and 2010 was far greater, a notable increase was also observed for references to LGBT-related issues between 2008 and

2009, specifically for the Greek language newspapers (not for Cyprus Mail). Developments that contributed to this increased coverage included the discourse generated by official complaints submitted by LGBT persons to the Ombudswoman, concerning mostly refusal of the authorities to grant legal status (asylum or permanent residence) to their same-sex partners or spouses, triggering public discourse about the possibility of legal regulation of same-sex relationships in the Republic of Cyprus.

Although the total number of articles containing LGBT references published appeared to differ between newspapers (see Figure 1.1), with Politis publishing the greatest overall number and Cyprus Mail the lowest, this numerical index should not necessarily be interpreted as analogous to the newspaper’s concern or supportiveness of LGBT issues.

Qualitative characteristics of the articles, such as how extensive and relevant to the audience the article’s reference to LGBT issues is, the nature of the topic presented or discussed, and the positive or negative valence of the attitudes expressed or presented, also need to be taken into account. For instance, Tables 1.4 and 1.5 show that different newspapers presented different patterns regarding the sections where LGBT issues were most prominent, and the article types where LGBT-references usually appeared. Phileleftheros presented numerous references to LGBT issues, but a large percentage was featured in the International news sections, presented merely as statements of facts with little or no commentary. Although the

accept-LGBT Cyprus can be considered the first official NGO promoting LGBT rights in Cyprus; an application for obtaining NGO status was submitted on 26 th October, 2010, and is currently being reviewed by the competent authority. Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 51 paper did cover local developments in 2010, the newspaper’s reporters remained conservative throughout, with very little, opinion presented or expressed by the reporters themselves (e.g.

Hadjistylianou, 2010, p. 4); external opinions were hosted by pro- and anti- LGBT figures,

(e.g. Constantinou, X., 2010, p. 37; p.35; Themistocleous, 2010. p. 14). Politis, on the other hand, especially throughout 2010, tended to be more critical, hosting more opinions and commentaries in its columns, by some readers (e.g. Stavrinides, 2010), but especially by its own reporters and commentators, who exercised strong criticism of homophobic statements and behaviours by public figures (e.g. Constantinou, C., 2010a, p.13; Constantinou, C. 2010, p. 4), but also commended pro-LGBT statements made by public figures (e.g. Constantinou,

C., 2010b, p. 13). This was especially true in several gay-friendly critical columns such as the column “Kata Varvaron” by journalist Costas Constantinou, and “Ypogastrion”

(“Underbelly”), authored by a gay persona using the pseudonym “O Toioutos”. Although fewer in number (at least as retrieved through the newspaper’s online search system, since no pdf versions were available electronically), Cyprus Mail’s articles tended to present more directly relevant to the local scene than articles retrieved in the Greek-speaking newspapers

(see Fig. 7) and tended to host opinions, from both the pro- and anti- LGBT sides (e.g.

Dewhurst, 2010b; Dinou, 2010).

Regarding attitudes expressed, the tendency was for articles with exclusively

European/international focus to be predominantly factual in all newspapers, with neutral or no opinion, and articles containing a local/national tended to express or cite opinions, with positive attitudes (to varying degrees) being predominant. The notable increase in negative attitudes expressed through articles with local/national focus in 2010 compared to the previous years could be partly attributed to the increased coverage given to statements that could be considered provocative or homophobic, and that captured the public and media attention. It is also likely that since such statements, along with the concurrent developments Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 52 described above, acted as a trigger for stimulating public discourse around LGBT rights and particularly the prospect of legalizing same-sex partnerships, thus setting the ground for opinions of both pro- and anti-LGBT sides to be presented, and particularly a fertile ground for dormant homophobic or anti-LGBT attitudes to be explicitly expressed. These findings appear encouraging, since it seems that as LGBT issues come closer to “home”, discourse is increased, and although this may trigger debates and arguments from all sides, positive attitudes appear to be more frequent compared to negative ones.

The current analysis would not be complete without commenting on what was notably missing , as well as what was indeed covered or commented upon in the Cypriot press throughout the three-year period studied. Despite a trend for increasing coverage of LGBT- relevant topics, overall coverage of LGBT issues was limited, and lagged far behind major issues that take up for the bulk of the newspapers’ space and make headlines (in Cyprus, these are, typically, the Cyprus problem, and the economy). Of two exceptions of LGBT- relevant reference in the front page, one was related to one of these two major issues, the economy, and specifically the tourist industry in response to the financial crash

(Hadjistilianou, 2009, p. 1). Some striking gaps should be noted regarding coverage of some

LGBT-related developments or events that could have been construed, and thus covered, as locally relevant. Most notably, despite some references to international pride events and awareness-raising activities were included in international news sections (e.g. “Yes, gays

can!”, 2009, p. 9), the most locally-relevant pride event, the annual Athens pride, received no

mention whatsoever in either of the newspapers, in either of the three years. Even though the

newly formed organization accept-LGBT Cyprus participated with its own delegation in the

2010 Athens Pride, this still received no mention. This gap may reflect the lack of discourse

on LGBT activism and the overall lack of visibility of the LGBT community (locally, or

internationally) as an active stakeholder in civil society in a Cypriot context, and is, to some Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 53 extent consistent with the lack of any visible organised LGBT movements in the island, at least until 2010. Although the concepts of human rights and adverse discrimination may appear to become increasingly acknowledged and addressed in the Cypriot press, it appears that more work may be needed, by LGBT advocates themselves, but also by journalists who wish to contribute toward the coverage of LGBT issues, to portray the LGBT community as socially active. Current LGBT representations in the Cypriot press, in both local and international mentions, appear overwhelmingly pessimistic; it would even be accurate to claim that LGBT people are portrayed by the Cypriot press as passive victims of discrimination, subject to the mercy a ruthlessly homophobic society (e.g. Sarantopoulou,

2009, p. 41; Panagi, 2009, p. 29; Kasinidou, 2010, p. 31), whose rights rely on competent authorities such as law makers, migration authorities, or the attorney general in order to be secured (e.g. Costakopoulos, G., 2008, p. 48; Hadjistylianou, 2010, p.32.). The launching of accept-LGBT Cyprus in May 2010 may have marked a first step toward an alternative representation of the LGBT community in Cyprus, one that presents LGBT community’s representatives that are empowered, committed, able to take initiative, and ready to function as active agents for social change (e.g. Panagi, 2010, p. 21, “Reportage”; Evripidou, 2010c).

Whether this image will be further consolidated through press coverage in the future and balance the pessimistic and victimized portrayal predominant so far, remains to be seen.

Another major gap identified through the compilation of articles gathered and analyzed for this three-year period, lies in the striking absence of political opinions or positions. Apart from some positions quoted by a newspaper survey back in 2006 (Savva,

2010, p. 41; noted with an asterisk), Table 1.5 lists few public figures as expressing a clear stance, on the topic of same-sex unions in this case. Despite the substantial increase in discourse, particularly on same-sex unions, throughout the three years, it seems that few actors monopolized this discourse. On the pro-LGBT side, statements were almost Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 54 exclusively attributed to the Ombudswoman, Iliana Nicolaou, and the Equality Authority of

Cyprus. On the anti- LGBT side, the discourse was largely monopolized by conservative MP

Andreas Themistocleous. Other key political figures appeared remarkably silent on the issue.

Besides the Ombudswoman and Equality Authority, and on some occasions, the Ministry of

Interiors, local and national authorities also refrained from any debate. The few occasional exceptions tended to come from the conservative political party DH.SY. (Constantinou, X.,

2010, p. 37; 2010, p. 35; Theocharous, 2010, p. 12). DH.SY. was also the only political party to issue an official position on LGBT issues, and specifically same-sex unions, positioning itself against same-sex marriage, but willing to discuss civil partnership proposals. The statement, specifically, expressed the following:

“On the issue of relationships among homosexual couples, the Democratic Rally is opposed to the expansion of the institution of marriage, so as to cover such cases, as well as the institution of adoption of children by homosexual couples. The Democratic Rally, respects the sovereign right of each Member State of the Union to institutionalize relations of homosexual couples on the legal basis of civil unions (Germany, England, France, etc.), and will consider legislative by the Cyprus Government, in accordance with international and European obligations of the Republic, to settle the issue.” ( http://www.disy.org.cy/default.asp?id=549 , issued on 2010, June 4).

The position was posted on the party’s website, following several weeks of debate and

criticism of Mr. Themistocleous’ statements, and was hence referenced in press articles.

Consequently some columns featured critical commentaries calling the party’s reactions as

“belated”, “forced”, and “hypocritical” (DH.SY. distances its position, 2010, p. 5; You either

sue him, or you shave him, 2010, p. 13; Constantinou, C., 2010a, p.13). Moreover, although

traditionally, the political left is considered an ally of social equality including LGBT rights

in many countries, this does not seem to be the case in Cyprus. Despite the heated, at times,

debate, generated by Mr. Themistocleous statements, the left-wing political parties and their

representatives remained persistently silent 9. Whereas the conservative DH.SY. may have

9 One exception was a reaction by the socialist-affiliated student branch “Agonas” in the United Kingdrom., who published a response on their website, whereby they condemned Mr. Themistocleous’ statements as “homophobic”, and took a pro- same-sex unions position, calling for the “imperative need to safeguard homosexual couples” (in http://www.agwnas.co.uk/pressrelease/themistokleous-homophobia , dated 2010, April 23). No such response was, however, officially made by the Cypriot socialist party itself (EDEK), nor Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 55 experienced pressure following the dimensions of the debate and the public outcry that followed Themistocleous’ statements, and thus its individual members and the official party’s collective went on to take stance, no such pressure or sense of urgency was apparently perceived by the left-wing parties.

In sum, examination of the actual actors involved on a local and national level reveals that discourse occurs around limited circles. Articles repeatedly reference the

Ombudswoman’s call for equality for partnerships throughout the three years, and, in 2010, deal quite extensively with Themistocleous’ statements. Despite increase in discourse and coverage in 2010, and increased participation of the general public and media commentators in the generated debates, political debate appears to remain lacking, and the involvement of the LGBT community and their representatives as active agents in this debate is limited to nonexistent.

Contributions of the Study

We believe this study has produced significant contributions to the nascent field of

LGBT studies in Cyprus and can function as an important resource for advocacy on LGBT rights through evidence-based documentation. The study’s strengths lie in the island-wide span and daily circulation of the newspapers included, and the comprehensiveness of the articles collected 10 , ensuring coverage of discourse from various actors and span pertaining to

LGBT rights, ranging from average persons and readers to key political figures and decision makers, and from local, national, European to International span respectively (see Selection of Sources in Methods section, for the rationale for this selection).

by any of their core members. 10 The search conducted for the articles for the three-year span of this study could be considered comprehensive, provided that all daily publications were thoroughly searched either through pdf search functions or scanned visually for keywords. Although some references may have been omitted due to human error, due to the systematic and thorough nature of the searchers, omissions are likely to be scarce and not likely to have affected the overall results of this study.

Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 56

The setup and development of a comprehensive archive system for organizing and gathering press articles containing references to LGBT issues in Cyprus can function as an important resource for future reference, additional analyses, and, of course, provides the structural mechanism for continued monitoring of the relevant public discourse through collection of further such references in the press in the years following the time span of the study. The data collected and the resulting analysis generated observations and recommendations that can inform several stakeholders, primarily NGOs involved in advocating for LGBT rights, but also the media with regards to the need for covering topics that have so far appeared underrepresented in the press and contributing to raising awareness and generating discourse on these topics. Decision makers, authorities, as well as educators can also draw on this study to identify concerns or even prejudice expressed through laypersons, politicians, or other key figures and stakeholders, as documented by the press, and use these information accordingly to guide and tailor general awareness and educational campaigns or specific prevention programs.

The period of the present documentation fortunately coincided an era marked by a rising motivation by members of the LGBT community and their allies to engage in active steps to promote LGBT rights as fundamental human rights, and secure visibility and fortification of rights as a community, and consequently the founding of accept-LGBT

Cyprus. Thus, it can be considered to document the contemporary sociopolitical climate during a time of significant developments in LGBT advocacy in Cyprus, and can serve as a baseline for evaluating changes in the years to come by contrasting similar documentations of the relevant coverage and public discourse in the future.

Limitations

Although every effort was made to ensure that the study’s results are nationally representative, by selecting the most widely circulated newspapers in the island, some points Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 57 of caution regarding interpretation of our results should be made. Although newspapers are an important medium for both reflecting and shaping popular opinion, other forms of media, such as television, radio, and new online media (facebook groups, websites, internet blogs and forums) are also important aspects of the socio-political climate, which may present different portrayals and issues pertaining to LGBT issues, but could not be included in this study due to practical limitations.

The present study was conducted primarily by a team of volunteer researchers, supervised by two experienced researchers and coordinated by a part-time research assistant.

Therefore, practical challenges, such as financial and time constraints, limited to some extent, the scope of the study, thus not allowing the coding and analysis to extend to a wider range of newspapers and to other media (e.g. television or internet blogs and forums). Technical challenges with newspaper websites, which had various formats of article archiving and differing levels of facilitation of article retrieval may have hindered an exhaustive retrieval of all possibly relevant articles, although efforts were made by the research team to ensure that collection of relevant articles was as comprehensive as possible.

Overview

Overall, the main trends recorded through the present documentation analysis included a consistent increase in discourse throughout the three year period in all main newspapers, with the most pronounced increase noted in 2010 compared to the year before, as well as a trend toward increasing coverage of LGBT issues on a local/national level across the three years, thus bringing the issue closer to home. As evidenced by the increasing prevalence of articles presenting or expressing attitudes, either positive or negative, in 2010, with articles with local/national focus being more likely to contain more attitudes, either negative or positive, compared to articles with a solely European/international focus, when

LGBT issues are treated as “closer to home”, critical discourse is more likely to be triggered Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 58 and thus presented in the media. These trends appear encouraging regarding the potential of raising awareness of LGBT issues among the general public, and bringing discussions about

LGBT rights into the spotlight; this is especially important, since such discourse in Cyprus has been scarce, and as the limited empirical evidence available (e.g. Kapsou, 2006; Lesta,

Lazarus, & Essen, 2008; European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights, 2009) documents that sexual orientation remains a taboo issue and homophobia and myths are prevalent among

Cypriots.

Nevertheless, several points of caution should be noted to qualify this optimism. For

one, despite the increases in coverage and the increased presence of articles in sections of

newspapers hosting opinions and social issues, overall newspaper space devoted to LGBT

issues is minute compared to other topics that take-up the majority of the attention of the

press. Most articles throughout the three year span studied are found in middle pages of

newspapers, with a significant percentage located in International News and small

commentary sections. Apart from two exceptions, one referring to the authorities’ rejection of

a same-sex marriage request (Hadjistylianou, 2010, p. 1) one article linking LGBT issues

with the economy (Hadjistylianou, 2009, p. 1), and one or two occasional teasers, LGBT

issues did not appear on front pages of newspapers and did not make headlines. Most

importantly, whether the documented increases in coverage and its local/national relevance

indeed signify an important milestone for LGBT visibility and the onset of relevant public

discourse and social concern in Cyprus that will continue in the future, or merely a short-

lived “fad”, triggered by occasional provocative or inflammatory statements that will subside,

is a question that remains to be answered.

Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 59

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heaven and earth to marry his partner. Phileleftheros , p.1.

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He is somewhere. And does not bite…! (2010, May 18). Politis . 13.

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(2008, March 24). Phileleftheros , p.13.

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Hoplarou, R. (2010b, May 30). The miracle pill of the 60s. Politis . 25.

Jacques, S. (2009, August 23). Ombudswoman’s calls are a welcome voice in Cyprus

Kalatzis, M. (2008, May 13). Ombudswoman’s report lit fires: It’s a hot topic. Politis . p. 48.

Kalatzis, M. (2009, July 23). Prison guard reports racism behaviour against him: I am gay,

not disabled. Politis p. 21.

Kalatzis, M. (2010, June 23). Accelerated deportation of a European citizen: Racism… at

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Kalatzis, M. (2010, June 26). Nobody assumes responsibility for the unacceptable treatment

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Kasinidou, K. (2009, December 1). Not passing AIDS prevention: We hold the sceptres of

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Kasinidou, K. (2009, November 2). Research on the sexual behaviour of homosexuals,

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Mackay, J. (2010, May 9). Themistocleous offended everyone. Reader’s letter, Cyprus Mail.

Nicolaou Christou, M. (2010, June 23). I protest. Reader’s letter, Phileleftheros , p. 8.

Ntziani, C. (2008, December 17). He “takes pictures” of MEPs who support adoption by gay

couples. Homosexual posters against Matsakis. Politis p. 41.

O Toioutos (2010a, May 9). Stories under the belly. Politis , p. 3.

O Toioutos. (2010b, June 20). Underbelly. Politis, p. 3.

O Toioutos. (2010c, May 18). Underbelly. Politis p.3.

O’Hara, L. (2010, March 9). Why we should embrace same-sex marriages. Cyprus Mail.

Panagi, M (2009, December 6). I am stigmatized because I have….AIDS: Cry of Despair by

a 30 year old architect who is HIV positive and experiences rejection. Phileleftheros ,

p. 29.

Panagi, M. (2010 May 18). Association by Cypriot homosexuals: They organised aiming to

struggle against their fellow-citizens’ homophobia. Phileleftheros , p. 21.

Papaleontiou, G. (2010, May 28). Homosexual marriages. Politis . 14.

Playing the fool” today as well, Mr. Anastasiades?, (2010, April 15). Politis , p. 13 Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 67

Psara, M. (2008, April 7). Civil Marriage for Homosexuals: A fact as of today in Greece as

well? Phileleftheros , p. 13

Racism against gays: Mayday from the EU. (2009, April 1). Politis p. 10.

Sarantopoulou, T. (2009, November 10). We generally fear making relationships and

acquaintances: Allophobic Cypriots. Politis p. 41.

Savva, K. (2010, May 10). How MPs responded to marriages of same-sex couples. The

Parliament before homosexuals. Politis . 41.

Savvides, V. (2010 July 28). Homosexuality, social homophobia, and Religion. Politis . 42.

Sinigoros (2010a, June 27). After Polis… CyBC has also fallen. Politis . 9.

Sinigoros. (2010b, June, 20). Party biologically cleansed of gay and genetically engineered

products. Politis . 9.

Stavrinides, P. (2010, May 16). On the statements of Deputy Andreas Themistocleous.

Politis . 67.

Themistocleous, A. (2010, May 3). On homosexuals and other things. Phileleftheros p. 6.

Themistocleous, A. (2010, May 6). On homosexuals and other things. Politis . 14.

Theocharous, E. (2010, July 10). On homosexual citizens partnership. Politis . 12.

Theodosiou, P. (2010, June 13). The economic dimension of homosexual relations. Politis .

12.

Theodoulou, J. (2009, May 30). Charter for sexual well-being. Cyprus Mail.

Time to decide whether you support human rights for all (2009, August 18) Cyprus Mail.

What might God tell us? About gays. (2008, July 18). Politis p.10.

You either sue him, or you shave him... (2010, June 9). Politis , p. 13.

Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 68

Study 1 – Tables

Table 1.1. List of English and Greek keywords used in search to identify articles relevant to

LGBT issues.

Greek English

Οοφοβία Homophobia οοφυλοφιλία homosexuality λεσβία /ες lesbian/s Σεξουαλικός προσανατολισός sexual orientation γενετήσιος genital οοφυλόφιλα ζευγάρια homosexual couples ΛΟΑ /ΛΟΑΤ LGBT ACCEPT ACCEPT οοφυλόφιλος /α homosexual/s δικαιώατα οοφυλοφίλων LGBT rights σύφωνο συβίωσης civil partnership πολιτικοί γάοι civil marriage διακρίσεις λόγω φύλου / discrimination due to σεξ προσανατολισός gender/sex orientation διαφορετικότητα diversity γκέι /γκέυ /gay gay Σεξουαλικότητα sexuality σεξουαλικές προτιήσεις sexual preferences Θειστοκλέους Themistocleous Ηλιάνα Νικολάου Iliana Nikolaou Επίτροπος ιοικήσεως Commissioner of Administration Αλέκος Μοδινός Alecos Modinos παρά φύση unnatural σοδοία sodomy AIDS AIDS πρωκτικός έρωτας anal sex

Note. Word stems (e.g. « οοφυ -»/« σεξ -»/«homos-» etc.) were also used during the search, to ensure that all instances of the words were recorded, in all forms and conjugations presented. Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 69

Table 1.2. Predominant attitude toward LGBT rights expressed or presented in press articles

with local/national, or European/International only focus throughout the period studied.

Attitude expressed/presented Neutral or none Positive Negative

(%) (%) (%)

Local/national focus

2008 30 54 13

2009 49 41 11

2010 33 45 22

Total 36 46 19

European/International only focus

2008 44 36 19

2009 44 41 15

2010 54 34 11

Total 50 36 15

All articles

2008 38 44 18

2009 47 41 13

2010 42 41 18

Total 42 41 17 Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 70

Table 1.3. Frequency (%) of different article sections by year, publication source

(newspaper), and geographical focus.

Article Type N International Columns/ Informative Other a

News Commentary (%) (%)

(%) (%)

Year

2008 38 68 16 11 5

2009 57 61 19 2 17

2010 161 31 50 7 12

Newspaper

Phileleftheros 88 36 10 18 35

Politis 168 47 52 - -

Focus

Local/national 131 12 65 4 19

European/ 125 76 10 9 5

International only

Total 256 43 38 6 12

Notes. Articles in Phileleftheros and Politis only; a “other” category included articles found

under the following sections: Opinion/Editorial, Cover Page, Interviews, Reports/Research,

Letters from Readers, Local/Domestic news, Politics, Health/Health Issues, Sports. No

information for sections was available for Cyprus Mail. Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 71

Table 1.4. Frequency (%) of different article types by year, publication source (newspaper),

and geographical focus.

Article Type N Informative Commentary Opinion Research Interview

(%) (%) (%) / Report (%)

(%)

Year

2008 66 62 24 3 8 2

2009 69 68 15 9 6 3

2010 185 48 28 19 1 2

Newspaper

Phileleftheros 88 67 8 14 6 3

Politis 168 58 23 16 - 2

Cyprus Mail 64 30 50 8 9 2

Focus

Local/national 180 39 38 21 6 3

European/ 138 88 6 3 1 1

International only

Total 320 55 24 13 3 2 Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 72

Table 1.5. Stakeholder positions on same-sex unions, as presented in the press covering nationally/locally relevant issues (2008-2010).

Opposed Neutral/Mixed Opinion Supportive

Name Function Name Function Name Function

Andreas MP, Democratic Tasos Mitsopoulos* MP, Democratic Iliana Nicolaou Ombudswoman

Themistocleous Rally Rally

Dr. Panayiotis Academic George Perdikis* MP, Green party accept-LGBT Cyprus LGBT NGO

Theodosiou

Pope Benedict XVI Religious figure Athina Kyriakidou* MP, Democratic Alecos Modinos LGBT activist

Party

Marios Matsakis MEP (2004-2009). Maria Kyriacou* MP, Democratic Averof Neofytou* MP, Democratic

Rally Rally

Antigone MEP, Democratic Nicos Tornaritis* MP, Democratic Roula Mavronikola* MP, Democratic

Papadopoulou* Party Rally Rally

Angelos Votsis* Candidate MP, Tasos Mitsopoulos* MP, Democratic Phytos Candidate MP,

Democratic Party Rally Constantinou* Democratic Party

(2006) Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 73

Christos MP, Democratic Stavros Evagorou* MP, AKEL Nikolaos MP, Democratic

Pourgourides * Rally Papadopoulos* Party

George Georgiou* Candidate MP, Dr. Eleni MEP, Democratic Takis Hadjigeorgiou MP, AKEL

Democratic Rally Theocharous (2009) Rally

Various Readers Democratic Rally Dr. Panayiotis Developmental

(official declaration) Stavrinides Psychologist,

– against same-sex Academic

marriage, but would

discuss civil unions

“Holy Synod source” Religious authority Marios Matsakis Former MEP, European Intergroup

(Greek Orthodox – (2009) Democratic Party on LGBT rights

Cyprus)

Stelios Ieronymides MP, Democratic Lakis Neophytou Director of Cyprus Nicolas Kyriacou Lawyer

Party (doubts) Dream Weddings

Dr. Eleni MP, Democratic Skarvelis Weddings Xenia Constantinou Politician, Candidate

Theocharous* Rally (don’t think would MP (2011), Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 74

welcome it) Democratic Rally

Greek Orthodox Religious authority Various Readers

Church (Greece)

Petros Klerides Attorney General of YouAct European Youth

the Republic of NGO

Cyprus

Lauren O’Hara Cyprus Mail

Journalist

Anonymous 24-year LGBT Person

old

Ioannis Kasoulides MEP, Democratic

Rally

Dr. Eleni MEP, Democratic

Theocharous Rally

Yiannos Lamaris* Candidate MP,

AKEL (2006) Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 75

Chrystalla Journalist/

Hadjidemetriou commentator

Youth Board of

Cyprus

George Papaleontiou Educator

Note . *Some of the opinions of MPs on same-sex marriage included here, are based on responses to a newspaper (Politis) survey 2006. In lieu of national parliamentary elections on 22 May 2011, the newspaper Politis publicised responses of several candidate MPs to the question “Are you for or against legalization of same sex-marriage” (http://ekloges.politis-news.com ). Although these are not analyzed in the context of the present study, they constitute more up-to-date data that can guide an accurate mapping of the contemporary political landscape. Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 76

Study 1- Figure Captions.

Figure 1.1. Number of press articles containing references to LGBT issues, by newspaper and

by year.

Figure 1.2 . Sample article from newspaper Phileleftheros. Homosexuals in Greece call for

Marriage: in the final steps for conducting the first ones. (published on 2008, March

24, p.13.

Figure 1.3 . Sample article from newspaper Phileleftheros. “Not passing AIDS prevention:

We hold the sceptres of discrimination against homosexuals” (published on 2009,

December 1, p. 31).

Figure 1.4 . Sample article from newspaper Politis. On the statements of Deputy Andreas

Themistocleous (published on 2010, May 16, p. 67).

Figure 1.5 . Sample article from newspaper Politis. “How MPs responded to marriages of

same-sex couples. The Parliament before homosexuals” (published on 2010, May 10,

p. 41).

Figure 1.6 . Sample article from Cyprus Mail. “We have to break the wall of homophobia”

(published on 2010, May 18).

Figure 1.7. Percentage of articles containing references to local/national relevance or with

European/International focus only, for all years.

Figure 1.8. General topic presented or discussed in the press, 2008-2010.

Figure 1.9. General topic presented or discussed, 2008-2010, Phileleftheros newspaper.

Figure 1.10. General topic presented or discussed, 2008-2010, Politis newspaper.

Figure 1.11. General topic presented or discussed, 2008-2010, Cyprus Mail.

Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 77

Figure 1.1. Number of press articles containing references to LGBT issues, by newspaper and by year.

120

100

80

60 2008 40 2009 2010 20

0 Phileleftheros Politis Cyprus Mail 2008 11 28 20 2009 23 34 12 2010 54 108 24

Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 78

Figure 1.2 . Sample article from newspaper Phileleftheros. Homosexuals in Greece call for

Marriage: in the final steps for conducting the first ones. (published on 2008, March

24, p.13.

Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 79

Figure 1.3 . Sample article from newspaper Phileleftheros. “Not passing AIDS prevention:

We hold the sceptres of discrimination against homosexuals” (published on 2009, December

1, p. 31). Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 80

Figure 1.4 . Sample article from newspaper Politis. On the statements of Deputy Andreas

Themistocleous (published on 2010, May 16, p. 67).

Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 81

Figure 1.5. Sample article from newspaper Politis. “How MPs responded to marriages of

same-sex couples. The Parliament before homosexuals” (published on 2010, May 10, p. 41).

Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 82

Figure 1.6. Sample article from Cyprus Mail. “We have to break the wall of homophobia”

(published on 2010, May 18).

Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 83

Figure 1.7. Percentage of articles containing references to local/national relevance or with

European/International focus only, for all years (2008-2010).

100

80

60

40 Includes Local/National 20 European/International only

0 Phileleftheros Politis Cyprus Mail Includes 53 50 49 Local/National European/Internationa 47 50 13 l only

Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 84

Figure 1.8. General topic presented or discussed in the press, 2008-2010.

Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 85

Figure 1.9 . General topic presented or discussed, 2008-2010, Phileleftheros newspaper

Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 86

Figure 1.10. General topic presented or discussed, 2008-2010, Politis.

Running Head: Mapping the Sociopolitical Climate 87

Figure 1.11. General topic presented or discussed, 2008-2010, Cyprus Mail.

Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 88

Study 2: Mapping the Experiences and needs of the LGBT community in Cyprus

Margarita Kapsou & Anna Christophi Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 89

Abstract

Empirical evidence on LGBT issues in Cyprus is scarce. Existing evidence so far is mostly anecdotal, and suggests that homophobia is widespread in the Cypriot society, yet little is being done to actively prevent or deal with homophobic behaviours and discrimination. Moreover, little is known about experiences of LGB people and the “coming out” process. This study aims to explore the experiences and needs of LGB people in Cyprus and thus provide evidenced-based information about LGB people in Cyprus. These experiences, and perceptions of acceptance of rejection of their sexual orientation for LGB, were compared for men and women of various ages in Cyprus.

An anonymous questionnaire was used to explore the experiences of LGB people in

Cyprus, particularly experiences of violence or psychological harassment, acceptance or discrimination in relation to work, housing, health and other services, faith, school and university, family, relationships, and social attitudes. The questionnaire also included scales assessing the extent to which family members, friends, and colleagues were aware of their sexual orientation, the reception of their sexual orientation by those who were aware, and how comfortable they felt expressing their sexuality. Participants, recruited through convenience sampling, were 136 LGB people in Cyprus (Mean Age = 29.35 years, S.D. =

7.55), of whom 74 identified as gay, four as bisexual men, and one identified as “other” men,

31 as lesbians, 24 as bisexual women, and one woman identified as “queer”.

The majority of respondents considered that LGB people are “minimally accepted” by the Cypriot society, and that Trans people are “not at all accepted”. Homophobic violence or hate incidents were reported by 13 participants, and included rape, physical attacks such as pushing, spitting, and mugging, however, participants stated they did not report those incidents to authorities due to fear, hostile climate toward LGB issues in the school/army settings, or unwillingness to reveal their sexual orientation. Participants were most likely to Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 90 be out to friends, sisters, and mothers, and least likely to be out to extended family members; for fathers most were “unsure whether they are aware”. Perceived initial and current reactions to their coming out were most supportive from friends, colleagues, and sisters, and least from fathers and mothers. Older participants were more likely to be open about their sexuality to extended family members and colleagues, reported receiving more supportive reactions from their environment, and felt more comfortable expressing their sexuality around their families compared to younger participants. Compared to women, men were more likely to be out to brothers and at work and reported experiencing more supportive reception in their work environments.

Results from this preliminary analysis are very disconcerting and point toward the

need for more proactive strategies to prevent and tackle discrimination on all levels, legal,

social, and private. Moreover, findings highlight once more the conservative culture of

Cypriot families, since coming out seems to be received most negatively within the family.

Coming out at younger ages is probably hindered about the lack of open discussions about

sexuality in general, as well as the lack of any formal support structures for families. The

invisibility of female homosexuality in this context is reflected in the greater difficulty

expressed by women in opening up about their sexuality. This study provides useful

information regarding emerging research needs, and suggestions for interventions and

policies. Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 91

Aims

Study 2 aimed to explore the experiences and needs of the LGB(T) community in

Cyprus in the domains of family and social circles, school or university, workplace, public and private services. More specifically, we were interested in 1) perceptions of overall social acceptance of LGBT persons in Cypriot society, 2) the extent to which participants where

“out” about their sexual orientation to various family members (fathers, mothers, sisters/brothers, extended family members), and other persons in their daily interactions

(colleagues, boss, classmates, etc.), and the extent to which persons aware of their sexual orientation were supportive or hostile, 3) any experiences of violence, harassment, or discrimination, in various settings including school, the workplace, and during delivery of services (e.g. in civil, medical, recreational, or church settings), and 4) self-acceptance or internalized homophobia.

The male gender role in Cyprus is still strictly defined, and any deviations from expected norms are stigmatized (Peristianis, 2006, in Georgiou, Modinos, Papageorgiou,

Papantoniou, & Peristianis). At the same time, female sexuality remains invisible; it was never mentioned in legislation, rarely appears in public discourse, and has received no attention in empirical studies, as the few analyses of Cypriots’ experiences of

(homo)sexualities tend to deal exclusively with experiences of men (e.g. Phellas, 2002; 2005;

Philaretou, Phellas, & Karayianni, 2006). It is therefore likely that the different roles, expectations, and stereotypes for men and women lead LGB men and women to face different challenges, and experience their sexuality in unique ways.

The experience of being an LGB person in Cyprus is also likely to differ among generations. Following decriminalization of sexual relations among males, in 1998, LGB persons who came of age after this period may not have experienced the direct prosecution and criminalization experienced by older LGB persons. Of course, homophobia in Cyprus Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 92 remains rampant, even following decriminalization, and legislation prohibiting discrimination

(in the workplace) on the basis of sexual orientation. Nevertheless, concepts of “outing”, and

“pride”, have now entered public discourse on a more regular basis than in the past; portrayals through international media such as television and the internet have increasingly included more positive presentations of LGB persons, and new media and social networking sites facilitate access to information and networks, and allow for more open, albeit anonymous, expressions of one’s identity.

It was therefore deemed desirable to compare the experiences of LGB persons by

gender, and examine the correlation between participants’ age and these experiences. Gender

and age differences in the experiences and needs of LGB persons were therefore analyzed

separately for each section of the questionnaire, in terms of “perceptions of acceptance versus

discrimination”, concealment or outing of their sexual identity in settings such as family,

school, and work, experiences of discrimination, physical or psychological violence and their

impact, discrimination at school, in the workplace, services, and internalized homophobia. Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 93

Method

Participants

One hundred and thirty six (136) persons who identified as LGB participated in this study (Mean Age = 29.35 years, S.D. = 7.55). From those, 79 were men (58%), 56 were women (41%) and one identified him/herself as other (1%). Regarding their sexual orientation, 54% (N = 75) identified as “gay man”, 3% (N = 4) as “bisexual man” 23% (N =

31) as “lesbian”, 18% (N = 25) as “bisexual woman” and 2% (N = 3) as “other” or “queer”.

Even though there are no official census data, to determine whether our sample can be considered adequately representative, all major LGB categories were included, and the ratio of men to women in the sample was satisfactory.

Participants from the LGB community were recruited through a combination of convenience sampling methods, as this is the most feasible method for reaching this population, particularly in countries such as Cyprus where the climate can still be hostile for

LGBT people to reveal their sexual orientation. Snowball sampling was the main strategy, but research assistants also recruited potential participants through gay bars, gay friendly cafes, poster announcements in colleges and universities, and calls through email lists and

Facebook groups.

Measures

The questionnaire used was compiled by the researchers, based on a model questionnaire provided by ILGA – Europe, which was translated and adapted to the needs of this project. Measurements concentrated on (i) types of physical violence or psychological harassment experienced by LGB people (ii) type of support sought in instances of physical/ psychological violence (e.g. reports to police) (iii) experiences of acceptance or types of discrimination experienced in relation to work, housing, health, faith, school and university, Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 94 family, relationships (iv) perceptions and social attitudes including the impact of these social attitudes in the free and open expression of sexuality. Both closed and open questions were used; for the former, participants responded using Likert-type scales. Questions were phrased to ensure that participants specifically rated the experienced they’ve had in Cyprus , rather than in any other country, in case they were currently living abroad or had done so in the past.

The questionnaire contained, under each section, optional open questions, where participants could provide additional information, or describe, in detail, their experiences, or incidents of discrimination or homophobic violence, justify why they did not report these incidents if that were the case, and provide any additional information of suggestions that they deemed useful or important to be recorded in our study.

The Internalized Homophobia Scale (IHS, Ross & Rosser, 1996) was also included in the battery of measures. It is a self-report scale, where participants indicate agreement or disagreement, using a seven point Likert scale, with 26 statements pertaining to their feelings about their sexuality or about gay men in general. Factor analysis by Ross and Rosser (1996) yielded four interpretable factors with acceptable reliability (Cronbach alphas ranged from

.62 to .85), namely “Public Identification as Gay”, “Perception of Stigma Associated with

Being Gay”, “Social Comfort with Gay Men”, and “Moral and Religious Acceptability of

Being Gay”. Since the original scale was developed to measure internalized homophobia specifically in men who have sex with men, the wording for some items was adapted to also apply to women. For instance, the term “gay” on several items was replaced with

“gay/lesbian/bisexual”, and the item “I feel uncomfortable making advances toward another man” was rephrased to apply to both genders, as “I feel uncomfortable making advances toward a person of the same sex as me”. Also, one item was added to examine attitudes toward lesbian women, namely “Obviously masculine women make me feel uncomfortable”, to correspond with the original item “Obviously effeminate men make me feel Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 95 uncomfortable”. It was deemed as more appropriate to treat attitudes toward gay men and lesbians as separate, rather than use a single item to assess attitudes toward both, since evidence suggests that individuals do not necessarily hold the same attitudes toward these two groups (Herek, 2000a; 2000b).

To ensure that the overall questionnaire was valid and easily understood, it was first

administered to volunteers on a pilot basis, and any necessary amendments were made. For

the IHS, the method of front and back translation by psychologists bilingual for Greek and

English was used to ensure accuracy of translation, and adjustments were made as necessary

following the back translation. The full questionnaire used is provided in the Appendix.

Procedure

Self completed questionnaires were given in hard copy, send by email upon request, and an online version of the questionnaire was also made available through accept-LGBT’s website. Prior to completion, participants read a briefing form that provided information about the purpose of the study. All data collected was anonymous. All questionnaires collected were kept at CFPA (Cyprus Family Planning Association) offices. Researchers created a coded database on the SPSS program, and data collected were entered by trained social science students. Once data entry was completed, the database was checked for

“outliers” and unusable data was discarded to eliminate interference. Reliabilities of the questionnaire sections were estimated and when needed data reduction procedures were employed and multivariate statistics (using SPSS) were used to examine descriptive quantitative results, and to identify any differences or trends among groups of LGB people

(e.g. demographic data such as, sex, age, area of residence etc.).

Statistical and Qualitative Analysis

Descriptive statistics (frequencies, and scale means) were obtained for each section of the questionnaire. T-tests and Multivariate Analyses of Variance (MANOVAs) were Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 96 conducted to compare experiences of men and women. Correlations were used to examine the relation between age and reported experiences (criterion for significance set at p < .05).

Several experiences, thoughts, and needs were expressed by respondents through these open questions. These replies were analyzed to identify the most common emerging themes. The main observations, along with some indicative replies (by subject), are provided following the quantitative results.

Results

Participant Profile

Age . As presented in Figure 2.1, over 50% (N = 109) of participants were relatively

young, aged between 17 and 34, and only 4% (N = 6) were above forty five years old.

Current residence . A percentage of participants (22%) were currently residing abroad,

and more specifically in the (N = 16), Greece (N = 7), the (N

= 3), (N = 1), (N = 1), and (N = 1). Of those currently residing in

Cyprus (N = 109), most participants (58%, N = 62) lived in the capital of Cyprus, in Nicosia,

28% (N = 31) lived in , 9% (N = 9) in , 2% (N = 2) in Famagusta and 3% (N

= 3) in Paphos. Participants have grown up mostly in Cyprus (85%, N = 117) but some of

them have grown up in other countries, and more specifically, seven in Greece, five in the

United Kingdom, two in , two in South Africa, one in Poland, one in Ukraine, and

one in .

Educational background . Almost half participants (47%, N = 65) have attended

college or university and 30% hold a postgraduate degree (N = 42). Three participants (2%)

were middle school and 25 (18%) high school graduates.

Occupational status . Sixty two participants (62, 45%) reported currently working, 3%

(N = 4) reported still being in high school, 29% (N = 40) were attending university and 13%

(N = 18) were unemployed at the time of the study. Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 97

Relationship status . Fifty nine participants (59, 43%) reported being currently in a relationship. Eight participants (6%) indicated never having been in a relationship. Of those having been in a relationship, 119 (86%) described their most recent relationship as a lesbian/homosexual relationship, and 11 (8%) reported that they had parallel homosexual and heterosexual relationships. Three participants (two gay men and a lesbian woman) reported having raised children in a same-sex relationship.

Perceptions of public acceptance.

Participants indicating the extent to which they believed gay men, lesbian woman, bisexual men and bisexual women, and transgender persons, are accepted by Cypriot society, using a scale from 1 to 5 (1= not at all accepted, 5 = very accepted). Responses are presented in Figure 2.2. The group rated highest in acceptance was ‘bisexual women’ ( M = 2.8, S.D. =

0.938) and the least accepted group was ‘transgender’ persons ( M = 1.3, S.D. = 0.618). When responses were analyzed by age and sex, it was found that older individuals rated the social acceptance of gay men as higher compared to younger respondents (r = .18, N = 134. p <

.05). All other LGB groups (lesbian women, bisexual men and women, and transgender persons) were rated similarly in perceived social acceptance by all respondents, irrespective of their age or sex.

Awareness about sexual orientation.

Participants were asked to indicate whether their family and social circle are aware of their sexual orientation, the way they found out about their sexual orientation, their reaction and acceptance or rejection, and how comfortable participants were with their circle regarding their sexual orientation. Results are summarized on Table 2.1. Generally, friends are those who know about their sexual orientation (M = 3.40, S.D. = 0.68, scale: 1 = definitely do not know to 4 = definitely know), and the ones who support them ( M = 4.5, S.D.

= 0.90, scale: 1 = extremely hostile to 5 = extremely supportive). Additionally, participants Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 98 stated that they feel more comfortable expressing their sexuality when around friends ( M =

4.30, S.D. = 1.17, scale: 1 = completely uncomfortable to 5 = completely comfortable).

Fathers appeared to be the least supportive (M = 3.00, S.D. = 1.25). Participants feel the least comfortable expressing their sexual orientation around their fathers ( M = 2.40, S.D. = 1.39).

Degrees of disclosure about sexual orientation, acceptance following disclosure and currently, for members of the participants’ social networks, and comfort expressing their sexuality around them, are presented in Figures 2.3 to 2.6.

Older participants overall reported higher rates of awareness about their sexual orientation by their brothers (r = .42, N = 91, p < .01), their children (r = . 58, N = 18, p <

.01), and extended family members (for cousins r = .25, N =, 121, p < .05; for uncles r = . 40,

N = 117, p < .01; for aunts r = .31, N = 120, p < .05; for nephews/nieces, r = .43, N = 91, p <

.01; for grandparents, r = .47, N = 86, p < .01), friends (r = .21, N = 123, p < .05), colleagues

(r = .29, N = 90, p < .05), and to their boss (r = .33, N = 70, p < .05), although not to their mother or father, sisters, classmates, or teachers ( p > .05).

Men were more likely report that some members of their family and social circle were aware of their sexual orientation. The difference was statistically significant for than brothers, t(88) = 2.70, p < .01 (for men, M = 2.85, S.D. = 1.18 ; for women, M = 2.16, S.D. = 1.19),

colleagues, t (87) = 2.14, p < .05 (for men, M = 2.60, S.D. = 1.03; for women, M = 2.13, S.D. =

1.03), and boss, t (67) = 2.00, p < .05 (for men, M = 2.33, S.D. = 1.23; for women, M = 1.76,

S.D. = 1.06), but for other family members, friends, classmates, or teachers ( p > .05)

Age of respondents correlated with more positive reaction to disclosure of their sexual

orientation by their mothers (r = .21, N = 134, p < .05), brothers(r = .28, N = 130, p < .01),

extended family (r = .26, N = 129, p < .05), colleagues (r = .39, N = 125, p < .01), and their

boss (r = .35, N = 124, p < .01). Older age also correlated with rating their comfort in

expressing their sexual orientation to their mothers (r = .47, N = 75, p < .01), fathers (r = . 43, Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 99

N = 56, p < .05), brothers (r = .49, N = 55, p < .01) and sisters (r = . 44, N = 54, p < .01), and extended family (r = .35, N = 57, p < .01), as significantly higher, but not to their children, friends, classmates, or teachers ( p > .05). Men rated their comfort in expressing their sexual orientation as higher compared to women, toward their mothers, t (73) = 2.04, p < .05 (for men

Μ = 3.02, S.D.. = 1.48, for women Μ = 2.21, S.D. = 1.55) and toward their teachers, t (23) =

3.53, p < .05 (for men Μ = 3.53, S.D. = 1.42, for women Μ = 2.38, S.D. = 1.06). No other significant gender differences regarding comfort in expressing their sexual orientation were identified.

Experiences of physical violence .

Twenty LGB participants (15%) reported having been victims of physical violence

because of their sexual orientation. The main types of physical violence mentioned were

violent beatings (9%, N = 12) sexual harassment (6%, N = 8), attempted rape (3%, N= 3),

and attack with gun or knife (1%, N = 2). Offenders were, in the most frequent cases,

classmates and unknown persons (6%, N = 8). Figure 2.7 shows all offenders in detail.

Incidents of physical violence most frequently took place in the army and school (5%, N = 7),

but also parks (4%, N = 6). None of the participants reported any of the above cases to the

police and only five of the victims (25%) indicated having sought support and help.

The experience of physical violence did not appear related to age, but was related to gender. Eighteen of 80 men who responded to this question (23%) compared to 2 of 57 women (4%), reported having experienced physical attack because of their sexual orientation.

The difference in frequency of physical attacks between men and women was also statistically significant, t (134) = 2.95, p < .01 (for men Μ = 0.56, S.D. = 1.20, for women, Μ =

0.07, S.D. = 0.42). Participants who had reported experiencing physical violence (N=17) on the basis of their sexual orientation rated, on a 7 point scale, the extent to which they Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 100 experienced discomfort as a consequence of these experiences (1= no discomfort at all, 7 = extreme discomfort). Mean discomfort experienced was 5.29 (S.D. = 1.83).

Experiences of psychological violence

More than half of participants reported that they had experienced psychological

violence because of their sexual orientation (57%, N = 77). The harasser was, in most cases, a

classmate (45%, N = 34) or an acquaintance (44%, N = 3), and incidents mainly took place in

school (52%, N = 39), in bars/clubs, or in a house (24%, N = 18). Other settings where

harassment occurred were the army (20%, N = 15), streets (22%, N =17), workplace (16%, N

= 12), and on the internet (8%, N = 6). Figure 2.8 presents the identity of offenders in more

detail. The most common types of psychological violence included insult and ridicule (73%,

N = 55), malicious gossip (72%, N = 54), negative comments (56%, N = 42), offensive jokes

(49%, n = 37), isolation (20%, N = 15), threat (18%, N = 14) and online harassment (12%, N

= 9). No cases were reported to the police and only 21 participants (28%) sought for any kind

of help.

Age was negatively correlated with reported experience of psychological violence (r =

- .19, N = 129, p < .01). Participants who responded “yes” to the question whether they had

experienced psychological violence were significantly younger in age compared to

participants who responded “no” to this question, t(132) = 2.77, p < .01 (for those who replied

“Yes”, Μ = 28.03, Τ.Α. = 7.16, for those who replied “No”, Μ = 31.53, S.D. = 7.23). Men tended to report experiences of psychological violence more frequently compared to women

(61% for men compared to 51% for women), but this difference was not statistically significant. There were no gender differences in the reported frequency of such incidents.

The 43 participants who had reported experiencing psychological violence on the basis of their sexual orientation rated, on a 7 point scale, the extent to which they experienced Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 101 discomfort as a consequence of these experiences (1 = no discomfort at all, 7 = extreme discomfort). Mean discomfort experienced was 4.88(S.D. = 1.96).

Workplace.

Participants who reported currently working or having worked in Cyprus (N = 109,

78% of the sample), were asked to indicate to what extent they felt the need to conceal their sexual orientation in their workplace and whether their sexual orientation was perceived as a detriment to their career. Disclosure in the workplace was minimal. Mean disclosure in the work place was 1.93 ( S.D. = 1.16) toward colleagues, 1.55 ( S.D. = 1.03) toward their boss,

1.52 ( S.D. = 0.97) toward clients, and 1.38 ( S.D . = 0.99) toward children in the workplace

(scale ranging from 1 = concealed my sexual orientation from everyone to 5 = open about my sexual orientation to everyone). More precisely, over half of the participants (54%, N = 51) reported that they concealed their sexual orientation from all their colleagues, and the majority (72%, N = 68) reported that they concealed their sexual orientation from their employers. Only 3 participants (3%) reported being open regarding their sexual orientation to any person in their workplace. Almost all of those who come into contact with children or teenagers in the workplace reported that they conceal their sexual orientation (86%, N = 59).

Moreover, some participants (six men and one woman), reported that their career was

negatively affected because of their sexual orientation. Discrimination concerned refusal of

employment (three cases), refusal of promotion, dismissal when their employer became

aware of their sexual orientation (two cases), and having higher expectations from employers

compared to heterosexual colleagues (one case). Five participants reported that their

employer or manager refused to assign specific tasks during their work. Three participants

reported experiencing inappropriate/discriminatory behaviour from employers, and four from

colleagues. “Indifference” and lack of awareness about their sexual orientation by colleagues Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 102 was frequently reported in the respondents’ comments. Moreover, one lesbian woman stated that “Colleagues insist on asking me when I will get married”.

Age of respondents was significantly related to more openness about their sexual

orientation in the workplace, whether this involved their colleagues (r = .33, N = 95, p < .01),

boss (r = .383, N = 94, p < .01), clients (r = .38, N = 83, p < .01), or children/teenagers they

work with (r = .30, N = 69, p < .05). No gender differences regarding openness about their

sexual orientation in the workplace were identified.

School/University.

Of 32 respondents who reported having been a student in Cyprus over the past two

years (most were in college, age Μ = 23.41, S.D. = 6.25, range 17-45 years), three men and

one woman reported having experienced adverse discrimination on the basis of their sexual

orientation. These included being treated unfairly, being excluded or ostracized by other

students, or overall unfair treatment by their classmates. Older students were more likely to

be open about their sexual orientation to their teachers (r = .56, N = 30, p < .01), or other

school staff (r = .61, N = 30, p < .01). No gender differences regarding openness about their

sexual orientation in the school setting were identified.

Delivery of services

Next, participants were asked more specifically whether they had experienced any

types of discrimination from a given list of service-delivery settings, in relation to their

sexual orientation, while in Cyprus. Both men and women 83% (66 cases of 80 the men, 47

cases of the 57 women who responded) reported having been treated unfairly because of their

sexual orientation, in at least one of a list of service-related settings. Frequencies of

experienced discrimination per setting are presented in Figure 2.9. Although frequency of

these experiences was similar for men and women, some differences were noted in the

settings where each sex most frequently reported. For men, the most frequent responses Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 103 included the army (N = 10), public services (N = 7), police stations (N = 6), churches (N = 5), and clubs (N = 5); for women, the most frequent responses included churches (N = 5), bars,

(N = 5), clubs (N = 5), and stores (N = 4).

Participants were also asked to indicate whether they experienced discrimination while receiving certain types of services from a given list. Seventy nine participants (58%) did not report having experienced discrimination because of their sexual orientation in any of the listed categories, whereas 58 (42%) indicated having experienced discrimination based on their sexual orientation in at least one of the listed categories. The most commonly identified response was avoiding kissing their partner or holding hands in public places (31%, N =44).

Frequency of reported incidents of discrimination was lower for other services. Four participants (3%) reported that authorities and government refused to help them and that there was unjustifiable delay during service. Regarding medical care, seven participants (5%) reported that nurses and doctors had criticized the way of life. One participant reported having been asked for additional medical examinations. Two participants reported having been denied assistance by medical personnel, and having been rejected as a blood donor.

Concerning service in bars, clubs, restaurants or shops, four participants (3%) reported that the service clerk hesitated to serve them. Additionally, thirteen participants (9%) were criticized by the personnel for their appearance and behaviour. “Offensive jokes” about sexual orientation were reported by nine participants (6%). Entrance to clubs and bars was denied for six participants (4%). Finally, 12 participants (9%) reported having received negative or offensive comments for their sexual identity by a priest in church. No reports of experiencing discrimination for services were identified for access to medical services, and refusal of assistance by medical/nursing staff.

Thirty three of 80 men (41%), and 25 of 57 women (44%) reported having experienced discrimination because of their sexual orientation while receiving services. For Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 104 both men and women, the most frequently identified responses involved “Avoiding kissing or holding hands with a same-sex partner in a public space” (for men, N = 15, 31%, for women,

N = 18, 32%). For men, the next most frequent responses were “A priest negatively criticized you or offended you for being a homosexual person ” (N = 7, 9%), “ You were maliciously criticized for the way you looked /behaved by the staff in a bar/restaurant/store etc.” (N = 6,

8%), and “You were maliciously gossiped or criticized for your lifestyle by the medical staff”

(N = 5, 6%). For women, the next most frequent responses were: “You were maliciously criticized for the way you looked /behaved by the staff in a bar/restaurant/store etc.” (N = 7,

12%), “A priest negatively criticized you or offended you for being a homosexual person” (N

= 4, 7%), and “A waiter/ bartender/ salesperson was reluctant to serve you” (N = 3, 5%).

Internalized homophobia

In order to explore the specific factor structure of the IHS in this population, data were subjected to exploratory factor analysis using the procedure followed by Ross and

Rosser (1996), which involved principal components analysis followed by varimax rotation, with maximum iterations for convergence set at 250 (KMO = .74). This procedure yielded four factors similar to the original factors reported by Ross & Rosser (1996). Internal reliabilities were above the .60 level, which is considered acceptable, for all derived factors

(for the full scale, α = .64). Descriptive statistics for these four resulting scales are presented

in Table 2.2 for the men and women in the sample. Multivariate Analysis of Variance did not

indicate any statistically significant differences between men or women on scores on the four

factors or the IHS scale, although some marginal effects were identified, with gay/bisexual

men reporting higher levels of Public Identification and Social Comfort, but also perceptions

of more Stigma compared to lesbian/bisexual women (Table 2.2). When, however,

MANOVAs were performed to compare scores based on self-identification in category (gay

man/bisexual man/lesbian woman/bisexual woman/other), a significant difference emerged Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 105 for the Public Identification category, F (4, 131) = 3.54, p < .05. Post hoc tests using LSD indicated a significant difference between participants who identified as gay men (n = 72, M

= 3.27, S.D. = 1.16) and participants who identified as “other” (n =5, M = 4.35, S.D. = 1.666).

IHS scores did not present any significant correlations with age.

The following significant bivariate correlations were identified between the four

scales of the questionnaire (all ps < .01): Public Identification correlated with Social Comfort

(r = .38) and Acceptance (r = .36), and Social Comfort with Acceptance (r = .33). Perceptions of Stigma did not correlate with any of the other three factors.

Responses to Open Questions

Experiences in social circles and public settings.

Some respondents described, in varying degrees of detail, experiences of discrimination or harassment in various settings such as school, work, the army, or church.

Severity of these incidents was variable, and ranged from negative comments and gossip, which were experienced as hurtful by some, and as less important by others, to very serious cases of beatings, threats with clubs and even rape. Examples of such reports are presented below, by setting.

Army. In the army, instances were reported of taunting, ridicule, and even rape. For

example:

“At the army, where I go as a reservist, I see other reservists who appear openly gay (because of the way they dress and/or look) being harassed by other conscripts with direct taunting as well as gossip. For example, once a reservist asked an officer, pointing with his thumb to an obviously gay reservist: ‘do you let them serve, as well?’ The officer did not reply. On other occasions, I saw a group of people approaching another reservist (most probably gay) in a provocative manner, and asking him obscene questions.” 11 (gay man, 31 years old).

“2nd time rape had occurred in the army. i had a lot of alcohol and had fainted. i realized it on the next day” (gay man, 39 years old).

School. Reported harassment at school seems to commonly take the form of name-

calling and ridicule. For example, a 19 year old gay man recalls that someone “shouted ‘You

11 Quotes are provided in original format where they were given in English; where answers were given in Greek, precision translation is provided as much as possible, and original punctuation and capitals preserved. Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 106 are gay’, in front of the entire school yard and everybody turned towards us”. Such instances were not limited to harassment or derogatory comments by classmates; a lesbian woman (31 years old) recalls derogatory comments by the school bus driver about “THE MASCULINE

STYLE OF CLOTHES I WORE EVERY DAY”.

Unfortunately, some instances of harassment and ridicule in school appeared repeatedly and in very severe form and frequently included physical violence, especially hitting and spitting. A 28 year old gay man recalls: “THEY WOULD HIT ME, SWEAR AT

ME, AND SPIT AT ME IN MIDDLE SCHOOL, AND I WAS FORCED TO LIE WHEN I

REPORTED THEM THAT ‘THEY TELL ME THAT I AM GAY BUT I AM NOT’…”. The most disturbing/traumatic recount is probably one that comes from a 30 year old gay man, who recalls:

“Sixth period Physical education and while heading to the changing room I felt as if I was being dragged to a torture chamber. Five minutes in the changing rooms seemed to me like a century… Often times, my classmates tried to take down my underwear to see if I have a penis… and me, ‘in my own world’, being afraid that what I have is not a penis… and trying, with indirect looks, to check whether what others have, is the same as mine! At the same time, some of my classmates would hit me, would spit at me, and would shout at me various homophobic epithets. Often times I would start crying, and then they’d stop, as they saw that I would weaken, feel plundered, terrified, and shocked.”

In another account, the same participant recounts:

“my classmates, during class, would hurtle erasers at me using rubber bands, they would spit at me, and sometimes they would place pubic hair in my pencil case… … after goodmorning, I would be confronted with the words ‘sissy’, ‘penis’, ‘blowjob’, my name in female version, along with shapes of male reproductive organs”.

Despite the severity and repeated occurrence of such incidents, participants give no

recount of school staff or teachers intervening to stop these incidents. On the contrary, one

respondent reported that “TEACHERS DID NOT ENCOURAGE THESE KINDS OF

REPORTS” (lesbian woman, 31 years old).

Work. Harassment in the workplace was reported as, most commonly, taking the form of malicious comments or insinuations, and gossip. For instance:

“When my sexual orientation became known, some colleagues, with whom I had not personally worked with, but who know me, made negative and derisive comments about me” (bisexual woman, 27 years old).

Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 107

“…INSINUATED TOWARD ME AND OTHER COLLEAGUES (gay man, 32 years old).

Bars/Clubs/Public Spaces. Homophobic comments and remarks were also reported on the street, outside bars/clubs, but also within friendly circles and from acquaintances. Some illustrative examples included:

Street

“ON FOOT, AND SOMEONE PASSING IN A CAR SHOUTED FAGGOT” (gay man, 30 years old)

“Insults(strangers shouted from cars)” lesbian woman, 19 years old

Cafes/bars

“‘Hey you're gay, man’ while I sat in a cafe.” (gay man, 33 years old)

“TEENAGERS PASSING BY MOCKING PASSING BY A KNOWN GAY BAR…” (gay man, 41 years old).

“IN A BAR, IT HAPPENED THAT A CLIENT ADDRESSED THE BARMAN AND MOCKED THE STYLE IN WHICH I WAS DRESSED” (Lesbian woman, 34 years old).

Friendly circles/acquaintances

“… a straight guy ‘hitting’ on me mockingly at a party” (gay man, 33 years old).

Reasons for not reporting incidents

Participants listed several responses for not reporting incidents of physical violence to

the police or authorities. Most prominent reasons had to do with shame, fear, and lack of trust

to the police or authorities. Reasons for not reporting incidents of psychological violence and

harassment were largely similar to those reported for not reporting incidents of physical

violence; they included fear that matters would get even worse, doubts that anything could be

done to improve the situation, or fear of disclosure, while for many, incidents were not

perceived as severe enough to be worthy of reporting, or were even coming from friends and

acquaintances. Psychological harassment/violence, in fact, included incidents that came from

family members. A comprehensive list of these responses, listed by participants’ sex, is

provided on Tables 2.3 and 2.4.

Impact of harassment Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 108

On several occasions, the impact of physical or psychological harassment, but also of the daily life experienced as an LGBT person was profound. They resulted in participants becoming “cautious”, imposing restrictions to their self-expression and appearance, having negative thoughts, symptoms of depression, and, on at least one occasion, even suicide. On one occasion (a 32 year old gay man), it was reason for quitting a job. For some, such incidents, and the overall lack of acceptance of their sexuality, were reasons to leave the country. A small minority of participants also reported positive influence of such unfortunate experiences, as they believed they had made them grow, and made them stronger. Some illustrative quotes are presented below:

Restrictions on self

“i no longer freely express my opinions” (lesbian woman, 34 years old).

“When a grew a bit older, I learned to behave more macho, in order to not ‘look that way;’ :-)” (gay man, 27 years old)

“Not wanting to tell others that I am gay for many many years to avoid ridicule” (gay man, 39 years old).

“Before the incident I was much more comfortable and liberated. After that the feeling of free personal expression was compromised” (bisexual man, 24).

“KNOWING, FROM INSTINCT AND EXPERIENCE, THE PULSE OF CYPRIOT SOCIETY ON THE ISSUE AND BECAUSE OF MY OWN NEED FOR COMMUNICATION WITH PEOPLE OF THE SAME SEXUAL ORIENTATION AS MINE I HAVE CONSTRUCTED MY CIRCLE WITH ONLY GAY PERSONS. I HAVE CEASED ALL RELATIONS WITH STRAIGHT PERSONS AND RELATIVES WHO HAVE CHILDREN” (lesbian woman, 34 years old).

“I LET MY HAIR GROW LONG AND ADJUSTED MY APPEARANCE TO BECOME MORE FEMININE” (lesbian woman, 31 years old).

“I AM MORE CAUTIOUS” (lesbian woman, 35).

“I cannot socialize among male groups because I am afraid of comments or that I am not ‘man enough’ for them” (gay man, 17 years old).

“Self-policing my body and my verbal expression is, however, a daily occurrence” (gay man, 33 years old).

“I pretend” (lesbian woman, 35 years old).

Impact on safety/ Threats to life

“made me feel uncomfortable the be seen in public places and i hated walking down the street by myself” (gay man, 45 years old).

“they directly threatened my life and health. I needed to go to a hospital. But I was also subjected to huge psychological pressure with long-term consequences” (gay man, 34 years old). Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 109

Depression/Suicidal thoughts

“Depression, sadness, i felt belittled” (gay man, 22 years old)

“SHOCK. Questioning my image discomfort about the incident.” (gay man, 36 years old)

“I live a daily torture. I might cease every social contact. The lies I say are really, on a daily basis. My strengths in life are almost worn out”. (gay man, 23 years old).

“i had depression for several years, until I convinced myself that the incident did not happen” (gay man, 29 years old).

“I felt so lonely, lost, and different. Countless times I thought about committing suicide, but never did. What held me back from doing it? I don’t know.” (gay man, 30 years old).

“I FEEL THAT I AM NOT ACCEPTED BY THE SOCIETY I LIVE IN” (gay man, 30 years old).

Migration

“Migration” (gay man, 24 years old).

“I CHOSE TO LEAVE CYPRUS AS SOON AS I FINISHED SCHOOL AND RETURNED 7 YEARS LATER” (lesbian woman, 31).

Positive outcomes/growth

“I could say that they actually made me stronger and a better man. Wanted to be the best. Prove to everyone that it doesnt matter who I was, I could be great! Not everyone reacts the same though and some of those traumas are still there today haunting me...”(gay man, 23 years old).

“After the incidents you learn your rights and you know that you will never let anyone belittle you for what you are” (lesbian woman, 21 years old)

Emerging topics

Following analysis of participants’ overall responses and commentaries, some common patterns emerged regarding topics the LGB community are concerned with, and parameters that are believed to influence their overall experience. Religion was frequently mentioned as a major factor contributing to negative experiences, experiences of guilt, and social disapproval. The coming out process frequently emerged as a concern, with many cases following disclosure to family member about sexual orientation reported as being met with denial or even hostility, and many cases reporting no disclosure, doubting whether they would be able to “come out”, or need for support in the process, because of worries and fear about possible consequences. Other issues that emerged, albeit less frequently, included Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 110 reactions to bisexuality , discrimination based on appearance, and differences in treatment for

LGB men vs. women .

Religion/Church. The impact of religion, particularly the teachings and attitudes of the Cypriot Orthodox church, was a recurring theme with ramifications extending to social/public acceptance as well self-acceptance and feelings guilt. Church teachings are perceived to present homosexuality as a “sin”, a “sickness”, something to be “cured” or

“punished”. Some illustrative quotes for each case are provided below:

Commentaries on social ramifications of religion:

“… contributes the attitude of the church, as well as political officers, who constantly try to equate homosexuality with paedophilia, dishonesty, and other mental disorders” (gay man, 31 years old).

“The Church is an institution that suppresses homosexual people, using the Bible in a very wrong way…..The Church negatively affects many people, LGBT or no, and makes them have negative opinions and hatred about LGBT people…” (gender and sexuality defined as “other”, 29 year old).

Personal impact of religious disapproval:

“'In my naive mind I heard the words of the priest that my school, had brought to us, last year for confession. 'I'll go to hell if I did not stop having these thoughts, they are thoughts of Satan. ". …What the priest had told me made me feel ‘sick’, a ‘sinner’, and that what I was going through with my classmates were God’s way of punishing me. So I just decided not to react and bear His punishment” (gay man, 30 years old)

“It upsets me that the cypriot church believes that homosexuality is something they can cure, it makes me angry.” (bisexual woman, 19 years old).

One participant (gay man, 17 years old) recounted his encounter with an acquaintance, a 20 year old gay man: “…The most shocking is that he told me that he believed that this is an obstacle from God and that he needs get over it because one day he will have a family”.

Coming out.

The coming out process seems to present a major concern and, more frequently than

not, disappointment, for the participants. One recurring approach involved great deliberation

in the process of disclosure (i.e. to whom to disclose and under what circumstances), or

deliberate nondisclosure. For some, this was almost universal, with almost no-one in their

environment being aware of their sexual orientations, and often with conscious efforts not to

raise any suspicions. Others reported being very careful and deliberately selective where to Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 111 disclose. A minority of participants reported choosing to socialize mostly or exclusively with other LGB persons. For instance:

Doubts/hesitation in coming out .

“Stereotypes projected though media render diminish my desire to talk to my parents… My brother, referring to that TV series, ‘Allaxe to’, where the presenter is perceived by some as homosexual, said at some point ‘what do you expect from a faggot, to do a proper job?’ (he was referring to something he did not like in the decoration of some space)” (gay man, 31).

“My difficulty in expressing my sexuality in front of my parents and/or my extended family is not because of its homosexual orientation, but more generally to the expression of any sexuality” (lesbian woman, 26)

“I have not discussed with my parents for the time being” (gay man, 32).

“i am in a very difficult position because i cannot discuss the issue with my parents. they are completely negative”. (woman, sexuality defined as “other”, 19 years old).

“I am sad to be writing this but I have nobody to turn to as any disclosure I am sure would not have a positive outcome, especially on the side of my family, and even for my career” (gay man, 23 years old).

Participants who presented their coming out experiences recount being met with disapproval, disappointment, and denial, although a small minority did report acceptance and positive experiences:

Denial/Rejection by parents

“…. When I talked to my mother for the first time she reacted badly. She was crying and she asked me if I am sure for what I am saying. She told me that if i want a homosexual relationship i should go abroad and not stay in cyprus. She was also asking me if it was her or my father’s fault on something which i do believe is true because they never offered me a healthy parental heterosexual model….. then she was talking to me about men and marriage as if i never talked to her about what i want. She makes me feel qualms guilt and anger” (lesbian woman, 23 years old)

“It took my mother several years to digest and accept it” (lesbian women, 42 years old).

“My father accepted it almost immediately” (lesbian woman, 42).

“My childhood friends were supportive” (gay man, 32).

Other

For one participant (bisexual woman, 33 years old), bisexuality was an issue that was misunderstood and criticized by gay and lesbian acquaintances, who “openly claim they do not believe these ‘nonsense about bisexuality’… and this hurts me”. On another occasion, a participant reported (bisexual woman, 33 years old) “THERE IS GREAT RACISM ON

BOTH SIDES, STRAIGHT AND GAY”. Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 112

Another recurring theme concerned discrimination based on appearance, and hence visibility of one’s sexual identity. “Looking gay”, or presenting gender-deviant behaviour, is cause for concern or anxiety for some, while “not looking gay” or “looking heterosexual” are perceived by some as ways of shielding oneself from stigma and discrimination. Moreover, some lesbian women stated that they believe that gay men are more vulnerable to discrimination than women. For instance:

Discrimination based on appearance

“I do not face such rejection because I do not look gay, so people don't realise I am most of the times. Sometimes, when I am with my girlfriend, who looks gay, people look at us in a funny way.” (bisexual woman, 19 years old).

“I BELIEVE THERE IS GREATER DISCRIMINATION TOWARD HOMOSEXUAL PERSONS WHOSE APPEARANCE IS CLOSER TO THE STEREOTYPES DEFINED BY CYPRIOT SOCIETY [...] PERHAPS ACCEPTANCE TO IN OUR SOCIETY HAS TO DO MORE WITH APPEARANCE THAN WITH WHAT EACH PERSON DOES IN HIS BED” (lesbian woman, 34 years old)

“I never experienced discrimination because of my sexual orientation because people around me usually assume that I am heterosexual” (bisexual woman, 28 years old).

“I do not face such rejection because I do not look gay, so people don't realise I am most of the times.” (bisexual woman, 19 years old).

“ I do not refer to this topic at all. For people who do not know about me, for them, I am heterosexual” (gay man, 22 years old).

Men vs. Women.

“I believe more discrimination happens to gay men and not women... for women i can even say they also like it but that does not mean that they understand us they just look at it differently...” (lesbian woman, 22)

“ALSO THERE IS GREATER DISCRIMINATION TOWARD HOMOSEXUAL MEN THAN WOMEN” (lesbian woman, 34 years old)

Needs and Positive experiences

The final open question asked the participants to report anything not covered in the questionnaire that they felt the need to express or considered important to be documented.

Several participants took the opportunity to express what they perceived as immediate needs for the Cypriot community in general, and the LGB community in particular. Respondents pointed out several needs of the LGB community in Cyprus, ranging from very concrete needs to more general needs for education, information, and support. Concrete needs that Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 113 emerged from these responses included needs for specific services (e.g. support for Sexually

Transmitted Infections), and needs for more gay-friendly gathering places. For the most part, respondents emphasized needs for emotional and informational both for the wider community, since ignorance and education support pointed out that such efforts should address the LGB community in particular, especially needs for self-acceptance, awareness, and promotion of organised efforts. These are listed in Table 2.5.

Finally, on a positive note, some used this space to express their gratitude and comment on the positive developments taking place for the LGB community following the launching of accept LGBT Cyprus. These respondents stated:

“ I have seen great (positive) change in the treatment of LGBT in Cyprus. Nevertheless, I believe that the Cypriot people still need to be informed so that we’ll be more open-minded and accepting”, (gay man, 28 years old).

“I agree with and applaud the creation of LGBT in Cyprus and the importance of the study” (gay man, 27 years old).

“THANK YOU FOR EXISTING” (gay man, 30 years old).

“Thank you for what you are doing” (gay man, 31 years old).

Discussion

This study is the first systematic attempt to examine the experiences of LGB persons

in Cyprus, particularly their experiences of acceptance or discrimination in various settings

such as their families, school, workplace, and services. The sample studied consists of a

relatively young group (most participants were in their 20s and 30s), as recruiting LGB

participants over 40 years old proved to be a challenge for our research team. Perhaps this is

because older LGB individuals do not participate in organised communities to the same

extent as their younger counterparts, or they do not use the internet, which was one of the

mediums used for participant recruitment. Additionally, they have grown up in an era that

homophobia and discrimination were widespread. Nevertheless, our sample was diverse in

terms of geographical representation, as people from all participated,

although, since the sample was primarily recruited through convenience sampling, the Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 114 distribution is not necessarily representative of the population distribution as presented in the census. Moreover, the sample included satisfactory representation of both men and women, and included people currently residing in Cyprus as well as abroad (although it was made clear that all experiences shared in the questionnaire referred to experiences while in Cyprus).

Regarding family and relationship status, the sample was also quite diverse, and included participants who had been in heterosexual marriages in relationships. Some of these participants (two gay men and one lesbian woman) also reported having raised children with their same-sex partners.

Perceived social acceptance of LGBT persons in Cyprus, as perceived by participants, is moderate to low. Participants, both in their responses to the scales, and their comments provided in response to open questions, rate LGB women as being somewhat more socially accepted compared to LGB men (bisexual women were the group rated highest in perceived acceptance), while for Trans persons, social acceptance was perceived at almost the minimum, with the mean score being closer to “not at all accepted” than any other response.

Given these perceptions, it is not surprising that the proportion of participants who are generally open about their sexual orientation is low. Disclosure is most common to friends, who also are perceived to be as the most accepting and supportive group in the participant’s social circles, while those participants who have children also report high levels of acceptance and support for their sexual orientation by their children. Parents appear to be the least supportive or accepting, both immediately following disclosure, as well as at the present time. Autobiographical accounts shared by some of the participants in this study suggest that communication with families, parents especially, is a major cause for anxiety and discomfort: hesitation in coming out to parents is more common than not, and this hesitation appears justified, since most recounts of disclosure to parents report that this was met with disapproval (disappointment, crying), and denial (e.g. some mothers behave as if they do not Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 115 about their children’s sexuality; continue to discuss men and marriage with their lesbian daughters; are careful to make sure nobody else finds out).

Regarding gender and age patterns, an overall trend was observed for participants older in age to report more openness and greater comfort in expressing their sexuality.

Younger participants, on the other hand, tended to report more adverse reactions to their

“coming out” by family members, more experiences of psychological violence, and less openness about their sexual orientation in their families, at work, and at school. This was not consistent with initial expectations. It was expected that a generational difference would favour young participants, who are more likely to have come of age during the post- decriminalization era in Cyprus and be exposed to more positive portrayals of LGBT persons though the media and internet. One reason for this discrepancy maybe in that the older generation is, in fact, under-represented. Few participants were over 40 years of age and the oldest participant was 52 years old; it is likely that, had older individuals been more equally represented in this study, the expected trends would have been observed. These possibilities notwithstanding, what is obvious from the observed trends, is that LGB youth in Cyprus are vulnerable to adverse experiences of rejection and discrimination, and settings such as schools and workplaces should take this seriously into consideration.

Certain discrepancies were observed among men and women in the sample. Women’s overall lower openness about their sexual orientation is consistent with the trend for the overall invisibility of female sexuality observed in the Cypriot culture. Hence, gender mainstreaming appears to be essential in the context of any efforts to tackle discrimination toward LGB persons, and to provide support for these individuals on their coming out process.

Whereas family settings remain problematic in virtue of their ignorance and denial, the wider social environment at times appears to be indiscriminately hostile and hurtful. This Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 116 study also documents high rates of psychological violence and abuse (at about 40%), which, most frequently, takes the form of malicious gossip and offensive comments, by strangers

(e.g. in the street, cafeterias, or bars); as well as by acquaintances and friends (e.g. in social groups or the workplace); harassment and threats over the internet were also present. Cases of psychological violence and harassment were obviously more commonly reported than cases of physical violence, yet in both cases impact was evaluated as moderate to very severe.

What is perhaps most alarming is the frequency and extent of homophobic bullying, violence, and harassment experienced in schools. Not only were reports of bullying and homophobic attacks in school frequent, but some recounts were very disturbing; severe incidents of beating, spitting, intimidation, and ridicule were not only common, but repeated, and most worryingly, were apparently neither reported to, nor addressed by, school teachers or authorities. Despite these alarming findings and despite the often severe impact of such harassment (some participants stated they were led to believe they were “sick”, and became

“depressed”, or suicidal), very few sought help after these experiences, and what is perhaps most striking, no-one reported them, primarily due to mistrust to the police or authorities, as well as out of fear and shame about their sexual identity. Such incidents, along with the overall low acceptance and the prevailing homophobic climate, seem to greatly restrict LGB person’s freedom to openly express their sexuality publically, or even at all.

Participants were also critical of the stance of church, which is perceived to

exacerbate stigmatization, instil feelings of guilt, and hinder acceptance. The impact of the

church and religion appears to permeate several layers of the LGB experience, and affects

them directly, by telling them that they are “sinful” or “sick”, as well as indirectly by

influencing social perceptions through its persistence in equating homosexuality with

sickness and with mental disorders. As also discussed in Peristianis (in Georgiou, Modinos,

Papageorgiou, Papantoniou, & Peristianis), the Cypriot Orthodox church is a major Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 117 stakeholder in public discussion and has strong influence in public opinions relating to sexuality, therefore the ramifications of this stance cannot be ignored. Moreover, Kouta &

Raftopoulos (2010) identify church power as one of the factors that affect adolescent’s emerging sexuality. On the other hand, the topic of religion is considered to be politically sensitive, and often avoided; some would be swift to point out that religious and secular matters should remain separate, and that the Church is entitled to its own opinion. In cases like the ones presented in this study, however, it is obvious that the consequences of such religious attitudes for the well-being and acceptance of LGBT people extent far beyond the theoretical division of the Church and State, as they interfere with the ability of the State to provide equal treatment and protection for all its residents.

Finally, another important parameter in our understanding of the LGB experience is internalized homophobia. Studies link internalized homophobia to a wide range of quality of life outcomes, including mental and physical health and relationship quality, (e.g. Ross &

Rosser, 1996; Newcomb & Mustanki, 2010; Frost & Meyer, 2009). Consistent with overall trends of this study, older participants in this study generally reported more acceptance compared to their younger counterparts, while differences between men and women were not significant. At the time of this report, analyses for internalized homophobia in the context of the present report are still preliminary. The potentially mediating role of internalized homophobia in the experiences of LGB persons and perceptions of stigma, discrimination, or acceptance, is considered important in the literature, and deserves further scrutiny.

Overall, LGB persons in Cyprus seem to have “one foot out of the closet”: they are very selective as to where to disclose, and only express their sexuality freely in certain settings and under certain conditions. As indicated by statements made by participants, many appear to experience the “closet” as a protective mechanism against potential social stigma and discrimination. For some, concealment of their sexual identity, and fortification of their Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 118

“closet”, entails conscious effort. This renders the LGB community the status of an “invisible minority”. Thus, the daily experience of LGB persons in Cyprus, as documented in this study, far from encourages, never mind secures, people’s fundamental right to open freedom of expression, and expression of their sexuality in particular.

Limitations

The LGBT population is generally considered a hard-to-reach and hence, under- studied population (Meezam & Martin, 2003; 2008; Gentlewarrior, 2009), particularly in countries such as Cyprus, where issues pertaining to sexuality are considered taboo and are generally avoided in public discourse. At this study’s onset (April 2010), there was no formally established LGBT groups yet and this further complicated our task of recruiting participants for our study (although accept-LGBT Cyprus made its official launch soon after, in May 2010 and has grown in membership and visibility since). Due to the limitations posed by the nature of conducting research with LGB populations, a convenience sampling methodology was used. Participants were primarily recruited through announcements on

CFPA’s and accept-LGBT’s website and email lists, and through snowball sampling (LGB participants and accept members disseminated the questionnaire to their LGB networks).

Although the final number of participants (136) eventually exceeded initial expectations (set at 100), and representation was secured for all districts of the area under the effective control of the Government of the Republic of Cyprus, the number of participants is relatively small.

Because of this small number, and the nature of sampling methodologies used during recruitment, the current sample cannot be considered representative of the overall LGB population in Cyprus, which may include LGB persons who have never disclosed their sexual orientation. Moreover, this relatively small sample did not allow for more in-depth statistical comparisons, such as comparisons of the experience of individuals who identify as gay/lesbian or bisexual, or of experiences based on geographical location, urban or rural Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 119 setting, and educational or professional background, that could shed further light on the protective and risk factors that relate to different experiences of LGB persons.

Since this was the first attempt to document the experience of LGB persons, we chose to include mostly questions that would provide information on participants’ overall experiences of stigma, discrimination, or acceptance, for various key aspects of their daily lives (families, work, school, services). Consequently, and due to the mostly quantitative nature of the questions, our approach did not allow for any in-depth examinations of the experience of LGB persons in Cyprus, but rather a first initial glimpse at the extent of discrimination and the aspects that may need more attention.

Further Research Directions

This study provides valuable initial insights into experiences of LGB persons in

Cyprus, particularly experiences of stigma, discrimination, or acceptance, in key aspects of daily life, such as in their families, school, work, or services. It provides much-needed information that covers a huge gap in our documenting, and hence our understanding of the experience of being LGB in Cyprus. At the same time additional research is imperative to provide more in-depth understanding of these experiences and needs; the preliminary findings provided by this study, provide some useful directions for future research.

Our study provided tools and infrastructure for continuing to collect information useful for documenting and analyzing the experiences of LGB persons in Cyprus. The questionnaire compiled in the context of this study can be made available in both Greek and

English, and used for purposes of documentation and for comparative studies in other settings where it is needed (e.g. in other countries in the Eastern Mediterranean where documentation on LGBT issues is largely lacking). The online questionnaire compiled on accept-LGBT

Cyprus’s website for the purposes of this study remains open and available, and can be used for further data collection. Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 120

Future research is needed to provide more in-depth study of the wide range of the daily experiences of LGB persons touched upon in this study. Qualitative approaches

(through methods such as in-depth interviews or focus groups) could be used to further investigate the daily experience and immediate needs of the LGB community in Cyprus, and document and specific positive or negative experiences and needs. As one participant justifiably pointed out, the “coming out” process and experience is one that deserves further study. Future studies should deal with such experiences in more depth, to provide a deeper understanding of the LGB communities’ needs in this process, that can be used guide support programs and facilitate the coming out efforts for LGB people and their families.

Our study also points to certain directions for future research needs for focus on specific subgroups of the LGB population, such as youth, who appear to experience the most adverse forms of discrimination, students, and women. For men, experiences of discrimination or stigma in the army setting were notable, and deserve more attention. The school setting appears particularly vulnerable to homophobic incidents and bullying, and school authorities should collaborate with professionals working in the field to work toward prevention and tackling of these issues, that currently seem to be avoided, and are rather

“hidden under the carpet”, in part due to the lack of any unified and systematic school policies on the topic.

Finally, it should be pointed out that the “T” out of “LGBT” remains lacking in any study or analysis. Transgender populations in general, and in Cyprus in particular, are harder to reach than LGB populations, and public discourse relating to transgender issues is virtually non-existent. Case studies and qualitative approaches can be used as first steps in an effort to start documenting and understanding the unique experiences or needs of transgender persons in Cyprus. A few respondents also pointed out the need for more visibility and education around the issue of bisexuality, which tends to receive less attentions and be perceived, at Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 121 least by the respondents themselves as more misunderstood, than homosexuality itself, even within the LGB community; one respondent specifically, reported experiencing discrimination or mistrust of her bisexuality by gay and lesbian colleagues, who expressed their distrust about “these [sic] nonsense about bisexuality” (bisexual woman, 33 years old).

Empirical evidence available so far, through the present study and prior research, documents low levels of perceived acceptance, and discrimination experienced by LGB individuals in Cyprus, and indicates that homophobia and misconceptions are prevalent. It is well-known through previous surveys that homophobia is rampant among the general population in Cyprus (e.g. Research Centre of Cyprus College, 2006; Trimikliniotis &

Karayianni, 2008; Eurobarometer, 2007; 2009), but reports from the current study highlight an even more severe aspect of homophobia: discrimination experienced in services, and among professional settings. One participant (a 39 year old gay man) reported a negative experience while receiving psychological/psychiatric services, while cases of discrimination such as negative comment and malicious gossip by medical and nursing stuff were also present. These findings point out to a need for more specialized studies of the attitudes of professionals toward LGBT populations, and, possibly, educational programs to raise awareness among professional medical and nursing staff, and ensure that services will be delivered in a non-discriminate, and, where appropriate, LGBT-friendly manner.

Schools appear to be among the settings particularly vulnerable to homophobic violence and bullying, but no structured programs or policies are yet in place in order to tackle or prevent such occurrences. The need to design and implement psychoeducational programs for school authorities, parents, employers, as well as the wider community is evident, and this study’s findings can provide recommendations and guide the development of such programs. Any programs designed and implemented to provide psychoeducation, Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 122 achieve prevention, and tackle homophobic behaviours, need to be developed on the basis of evidence-based practice, and receive empirical evaluation for their effectiveness. Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 123

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Table 2.1. Awareness about and reaction to social orientation by family members and social circles.

Know about Approval How comfortable How they found Initial sexual /acceptance they feel with out** reaction*** orientation* today**** social circle***** Mean Standard Mean Standard Mean Standard Mean Standard Mean Standard score deviation score deviation score deviation score deviation score deviation Mother 2.8 1.24 1.3 0.61 3.2 1.31 3.2 1.47 2.7 1.54 Father 2.3 1.23 1.4 0.71 3.0 1.25 3.0 1.39 2.4 1.39

Bother 2.6 1.22 1.3 0.67 3.8 1.09 3.8 1.27 3.0 1.57 Sister 3.0 1.23 1.4 0.66 3.9 1.15 4.0 1.23 3.5 1.51

Children 1.8 1.22 1.1 0.35 4.5 1.08 4.2 0.98 3.5 1.66 Extended family - - 1.4 0.61 3.8 0.91 3.7 1.09 2.7 1.29

Friends 3.4 0.68 1.1 0.37 4.5 0.75 4.6 0.74 4.3 1.17 Classmates 2.7 0.99 1.3 0.61 3.9 1.06 3.9 1.04 3.7 1.36 Colleagues 2.4 1.06 1.3 0.56 4.0 0.89 4.1 0.91 - - Teacher 1.8 0.98 1.6 0.71 3.8 0.97 3,9 1.04 3.1 1.41 Boss 2.1 1.20 1.5 0.65 3.9 1.21 4.3 0.99 - -

Notes . * Scale: 1=Definitely do not know to 4=Definitely know about my sexual orientation; ** Scale 1=I reveal my sexual orientation with my own willingness to 3=They learned about my sexual orientation from other against my willingness; *** Scale 1=Extremely hostile to

5=Extremely supportive; **** Scale 1=Disapproval to 5=Fully accept; ***** Scale 1=Completely uncomfortable to 5=Completely comfortable Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 127

Table 2.2. Multivariate Analysis of Variance for IHS scales by sex.

Overall Men Women F (1,133) p =

M(S.D.) M(S.D) M (S.D)

Public Identification 3.55 (1.19) 3.40 (1.21) 3.78 (1.14) 3.58 .06

Social Comfort 2.45 (1.02) 2.59 (1.06) 2.25 (0.92) 3.74 .06

Stigma 5.06 (1.30) 4.88 (1.41) 5.31 (1.10) 3.62 .06

Acceptance 3.05 (1.38) 3.08 (1.40) 3.05 (1.38) .08 .78

Total IHS 3.69 (0.55) 3.67 (0.62) 3.73 (0.45) .34 .56

Note . For all factors, higher scores indicate higher acceptance (lower internalized homophobia).

Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 128

Table 2.3. Reasons given by participant for not reporting incidents of physical violence/harassment to the police or authorities (grouped by respondent’s gender and response category).

Reason Men Women

Police/authorities not trusted “The police wouldn’t do anything” (gay man, 34

years old)

“BECAUSE THEY ARE CORRUPT AND

PERSON WHO ARE POLICE OFFICERES

ARE UNEDUCATED PEASANTS WHO HAVE

LESS SELF-RESPECT THAN ANIMALS” (gay

man, 34 years old).

Fear/shame “Fear” (gay man, 20 years old)

“Because I was afraid and knew they wouldn’t

help.” (gay man, 26 years old)

“I didn’t know how to explain the fact that I was

in the toilets that late at night.” (gay man, 27

years old). Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 129

“Shame” (bisexual man, 31 years old)

“Due to shame” (gay man, 39 years old). `

“Because I did not want to be ‘reported’ as

homosexual” (gay man, 36 years old).

“fear – i was very young” (gay man, 39 years

old).

Avoiding consequences (not making “I did not want to extent the issue.” (bisexual a big deal) man, 20 years old)

Lack of confidence/Young age “At the age I was, I wasn’t in a position to defend “NOBODY WOULD BELIEVE” (lesbian

myself or to understand the severity of the woman, 39 years old).

situation, since fights were a common

phenomenon at school.” (gay man, 17 years old).

“I WAS A STUDENT AND SOLDIER” (gay

man, 28 years old).

Not considered important enough “IT WAS A VERY SMALL INCIDENT” (gay

man, 30 years old). Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 130

“I DID NOT CONSIDER IT NECESSARY

BECAUSE OF THE DEGREE OF

HARASSMENT” (gay man, 21 years old).

“Because I considered that the national guard was “TEACHERS DID NOT ENCOURAGE THESE

responsible for this” (gay man, 34 years old) KINDS OF REPORTS” (lesbian woman, 31

years old)

Other “FOR OBVIOUS REASONS” (gay man, 40

years old).

Note . Participant’s sexuality, sex, and age, in parenthesis. Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 131

Table 2.4. Reasons given by participant for not reporting incidents of psychological violence/harassment to the police or authorities (grouped by respondent’s gender and response category).

Reason Men Women

Police/authorities not trusted “The police does not do anything about these “He was a police officer himself” (lesbian

issues” (gay man, 34). Η woman, 45)

“Because I knew that nothing would be done to “i do not believe that the police will take such a

change that.” (gay man, 25) report seriously.” (lesbian woman, 34)

“these are common things, unfortunately. “BECAUSE BACK THEM THERE WAS NO

also in another case of friends who were attacked DEPARTMENT IN THE POLICE FOR

in an ambush because they were gay, the police FIGHTING ELECTRONIC TIME AND THEY

not only did nothing, but they did not even record DID NOT EVEN THOUGH THAT THIS WAS

the incident as . i do not have faith in CONSIDERED HARASSMENT -AND

the policy system. Also I am afraid the BECAUSE THEY DID NOT BELIEVE IT WAS

use/publication of m name – to a lesser degree.” A THREAT THEY DELETED THESE

(gay man, 33) PERSONS. AT FACE CONTROL THERE WAS

“I did not consider that I would find support for NO CASE FOR DISCRIMINATION SO I Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 132 the specific matter” (gay man, 27) NEVER WENT BACK TO THAT CLUB. I

“I never believed that I had the right to report HAVE LEARNED FROM A YOUNG AGE TO these kinds of incidents to the police without this PREPARE MYSELF FOR ANYTHING bringing about even more outcry.” (gay man, 39) SIMILAR COULD HAVE APPEARED

“AND WHAT WOULD THEY DO BECAUSE OF THE LOW ACCEPTANCE BY

DIFFERENTLY?” (gay man, 25) SOCIETY (BY INSTINCT) SO SUCH

“I DO NOT TRUST THAT THE POLICE CAN COMMENTS FOR ME ARE EXPECTED”

SEE OBJECTIVELY OF IN DEPTH SUCH (lesbian woman, 34)

INCIDENTS... I DID NOT FEEL THAT MY

INTEGRITY WAS THREATENED” (gay man,

41)

“THE POLICE WAS INFORMED BUT NOT

FOR AN OFFICIAL REPORT” (gay man, 33)

“I BELIEVE THAT NOTHING WOULD

HAPPEN EVEN IF I HAD REPORTED IT. I

BELIEVE THE POLICE WOULDN’T DO Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 133

ANYTHING” (gay man, 19)

Fear/shame “fear, isolation” (gay man, 24) “I was afraid... I was ashamed... I was young...”

“Humiliating” (gay man, 34) (lesbian woman, 22)

“Shame, they were not serious cases of “ I WAS ASHAMED” (lesbian woman, 31)

harassment, I was young ...” (gay man, 33)

Avoiding consequences (not making “I did not want to further extent the issue” “Not to make matter worse. a big deal) (bisexual man, 20) And because Cyprus is a closed society, never

“cause i didnt want to atrtact any more unwanted mind its police” (bisexual woman, 24)

attention to myself” (gay man, 45) “I DID NOT WANT TO MAKE IT

“THERE WAS NO REASON TO GIVE SO CONTINUE” (lesbian woman, 35)

MUCH ATTENTION, [HE] WOULD JUST

DEAL WITH IT EVEN MORE” (gay man, 32)

Lack of confidence/Young age “16 year old student.” (gay man, 28).

“For the same reason mentioned above: I was

pretty young to understand the severity of the Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 134

situation or to even be in a position to defend

myself.” (gay man, 17)

“Too young. No one would understand. I didnt

even realise myself that I was gay at the time so I

couldnt understand why everyone else was saying

it!” (gay man, 23)

Not considered important enough “It’s not worthy of a report” (gay man, 19). “I felt neither psychological nor mental threat”

“They were not so important” (gay man, 31) (lesbian woman, 19)

“I thought it was insignificant!” (gay man, 30) “I didn't consider the happening serious enough to

“They were teenage teasing” (gay man, 39) tell the police about.

“It was neither threat nor a crime. Plus they wouldn't do anything about it, they

It was immoral and a hit below the belt. It is my would probably make fun of me too.” (bisexual

own right to inform my environment about my woman, 19)

serious personal issues.” (bisexual man, 24) “IT WASN’T SOMETHING SERIOUS” (lesbian

“IT BOTHERED ME BUT I GOT OVER IT”. woman, 23)

(gay man, 30) “I did not consider it serious enough to report it” Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 135

“there’s no reason” (gay man, 22) (gender/sexuality defined as “other”, 29)

“I CONSIDERED IT NEGLIGIBLE. AT

SCHOOL I WAS TOO YOUG TO REACT” (gay

man, 30)

“THEY WERE BRIEF VERBAL COMMENTS

WITHOUT FOLLOWING”(gay man, 38)

Did not want to expose “because they were my family/friends/acquaintances friends/colleagues/relatives!” (bisexual woman,

33)

“BECAUSE THEY WERE MY FRIENDS AND

NOBODY WOULD TAKE THEM

SERIOUSLY” (bisexual woman, 33)

Alternative way to handle it “I managed to handle it on my own” (gay man, “I talked to the persons who gossiped about me in

30) person.” (bisexual woman,18)

Other “I could not report ridicule and hatred against “Because the mother knew about it already”

homosexuals because I would not solve any (bisexual woman, 29) Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 136

problem.” (gay man, 23)

“The issue concerned CRIMINAL libel, and was

a DIRECT matter of the Attorney General,

without need for the police.

He eventually refused to act. Only for the

reputation of Makarios had the Republic reacted

once using the CRIMINAL libel law.” (gay man,

51)

“FOR THE SAME OBVIOUS REASONS” (gay

man, 40)

Note . Participant’s sexuality, sex, and age, in parenthesis.

Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 137

Table 2.5. Needs expressed by participants (grouped by respondent’s gender and response category).

Need Men Women

Education/Information Apart from informing society-at-large, there’s especially “A lot of information and education is needs both

need for education and informing of homosexual persons the LGBT community as well as for heterosexual

themselves. A more conscious (homosexual) community persons regarding bisexuality. There are many

can more effectively influence those who may have doubts prejudices and taboos that need to break. We have

or just do not know. From the moment homosexual persons a long road and a lot of work ahead of us.”

themselves behave with ignorance and frivolity, this (gender/sexuality defined as “other”, 29 years old).

unfortunately contributes to the already prevalent prejudice “THERE MUST BE MORE INFORMATION.

and phobia about them. (gay man, 31 years old). MANY OF THE HOMOPHOBES I MEET

“I PERSONALLY BELIEVE THAT WAS THE WOULD NOT BE THIS WAY IF THEY KNEW

CYPRIOT SOCIETY MOSTLY NEEDS IS PROPER MORE.” (bisexual woman, 33 years old).

INFORMATION. WE CONTINUE TO WALK IN THE

BLIND, LISTENING TO THE AGE-OLD VIEW OF

GRANDPARENTS AND PARENTS. IF CHILDREN

FROM A YOUNG AGE UNDERSTAND THAT Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 138

HOMOSEXUALITY IS PERFECTLY NATURAL THEN

PHENOMENA OF HOMOPHOBIA WILL BE

REDUCED.”

(gay man, 19 years old).

Support “All persons that belong in this society need some kind of “The most important thing is that you should help

help or support. to accept yourself is one issue, our society people who have not accepted themselves for what

creates several phobias which always hold us back from they are. Such persons need your help because

complete acceptance of our sexuality. moreover when you they are being constantly tortured for no reason

are in some kind of relationship then in order to feel and they are in despair without knowing where to

comfortable with the other person who need to stay locked turn to.” (lesbian woman, 42).

in a house.”

(gay man, 39 years old).

Services “I would like to see provision of support on matters of

sexual disorders and transmitted diseases.” (gay man, 23).

“I would like to see more gay and gay-friendly gathering

places (restaurants, clabs, bars)” (gay man, 19 years old). Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 139

“How psychologists/psychiatrist

How are psychologists/psychiatrists treating persons who

resort to them because of problems with their sexual

orientation. I personally have a very negative experience in

this field.” (gay man, 39 years old).

Note . Participant’s sexuality, sex, and age, in parenthesis. Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 140

Study 2- Figure Captions.

Figure 2.1. Age distribution of participants.

Figure 2.2. Perceived acceptance of lesbian women, gay men, bisexual women, bisexual

men, and transgender persons, by Cypriot society.

Figure 2.3 . Awareness about their sexual orientation by members of family and social circle.

Figure 2.4 . Acceptance of their sexual orientation by members of family and social circle,

following disclosure.

Figure 2.5 . Acceptance of their sexual orientation by members of family and social circle, at

the present time.

Figure 2.6 . Comfort in expressing their sexuality around members of the family and social

circle.

Figure 2.7. Offender profile, cases of physical violence.

Figure 2.8. Offender profile, cases of psychological violence.

Figure 2.9 . Frequency of incidents of discrimination, by setting.

Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 141

Figure 2.1. Age distribution of participants

17-24 4% 17% 30% 25-34

35-44 49%

45+ Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 142

Figure 2.2. Perceived acceptance of lesbian women, gay men, bisexual women, bisexual men, and transgender persons, by Cypriot society.

Not at all accepted Minimally accepted Somewhat accepted Accepted quite a bit Completely accepted

100

90 80 75

70 60 54

% 50 41 43 37 40 36 33 32 30 26 21 22 19 20 16 11 10 7 5 10 3 1 1 2 1 2 1 1 0 Lesbians Gay men Bisexual women Bisexual men Transgender persons Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 143

Figure 2.3. Awareness about their sexual orientation by members of family and social circle.

Your friends Sisters 3,5 3,4 Mother

3 3 Classmates 2,8 2,6 2,7 2,3 Brothers 2,3 2,5 2,4 2,1 Colleagues Father 1,8 1,8 1,8 2 1,9 1,9 Cousins Mean 1,4 Boss 1,5 Aunts Nephews/nieces 1 Your children Uncles 0,5 Teachers Grandparents 0

Note . Scale: 1 = definitely do not know, 4 = definitely know

Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 144

Figure 2.4. Acceptance of their sexual orientation by members of family and social circle, following disclosure.

Your friends

4,5 4,5 4,5 3,8 Your children 3,8 3,8 4,0 3,9 3,9 3,9 4,0 Colleagues 3,2 3,5 Classmates 3,0 Sisters 3,0 Boss 2,5 Mean Teachers 2,0 Extended family 1,5 Brothers 1,0 Mother 0,5 Father 0,0

Note . Scale: 1 = extremely hostile to 5 = extremely supportive. Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 145

Figure 2.5. Acceptance of their sexual orientation by members of family and social circle, at the present time

Your friends

Boss 5,0 4,6 Your children 4,5 4,3 4,2 4,1 4,0 Colleagues 4,0 3,9 3,9 3,8 3,7 3,2 Sisters 3,5 3,0 Classmates 3,0 Teachers Mean 2,5 Brothers 2,0 Extended family 1,5

1,0 Mother

0,5 Father

0,0

Note . Scale: 1 = extremely hostile to 5 = extremely supportive. Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 146

Figure 2.6. Comfort in expressing their sexuality around members of the family and social circle.

Your friends

4,5 4,3 Classmates 4,0 3,7 3,5 3,5 Sisters 3,5 3,2 3,0 2,7 Your children 3,0 2,7 2,4 Teachers 2,5 Mean 2,0 Brothers

1,5 Mother 1,0 Extended family 0,5 Father 0,0

Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 147

Figure 2.7. Offender profile, cases of physical violence

Unknown person in power 1

Family member 1

Brother 1

Neighbour 1 Boss 1 Colleague 1

Acquaintance 3 4 Other person 6 Classmate 6 Unkown person

0 2 4 6 810 %

Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 148

Figure 2.8. Offender profile, cases of psychological violence

1 Policeofficer 2 Unknown person in power 4 Boss 5 Brother 6 Family member 6 Teacher 8 Other person

Mother 9 Father 10

Neighbour 10 Colleague 17

Friend 17 Unknown person 36

Acquaintance 44 Classmate 45 0 10 20 30 40 50

%

Running head: Experiences and Needs of the LGB Community 149

Figure 2.9. Frequency of incidents of discrimination, by setting

Church Govermental services Army Club Police station Local authorities Shop Taxi Bank Court Other public places Other places

10

8 8 7 7 7 7 6 6

% 4 4 4 3 2 2 2 1 1 1 1

0 Running head: General Discussion 150

General Discussion and Recommendations

This project was the first systematic, nationwide effort to document ongoing discourse

and the situation regarding LGBT issues in Cyprus. This was approached through systematic

analysis of relevant publications in major national newspapers between 2008-2010, and

through analysis of questionnaires completed by LGB persons in Cyprus, respectively.

Findings of both studies provide important evidence regarding the situation and climate

around LGBT issues, and the needs of the LGB community in Cyprus.

In Cyprus, as elsewhere, the media have an important contribution in shaping public

opinions, raising awareness about social issues, or, alternately recreating and perpetuating

stereotypes. In Cypriot Greek culture, visible positive LGBT role models are entirely absent:

no authorities in public positions, nor any other public figures or celebrities have come out

openly about their sexuality as LGB. References to LGBT issues in the press rarely if at all,

appear as primary, and a large percentage is found in international news sections and in the

back or middle pages of newspaper; while issues of discrimination and homophobia appear to

receive increased coverage in the press, suggesting that relevant discourse is on the rise,

instances of positive presentations of LGBT figures are less frequent.

Findings from these studies are, to a large extent, consistent with previous reports and anecdotal evidence suggesting that homophobia is prevalent in Cypriot society. In Cypriot

Greek culture, the conservative Orthodox Church, which condemns homosexuality as a “sin”, is considered as a dominant force in shaping norms and attitudes, and is perceived by many of our LGB participants, to be among the parameters responsible for the persistence of negative attitudes towards the LGBT community. Homophobia is manifested both through public discourse and through behaviours in daily life, and it adversely impacts LGBT persons in multiple ways, including their freedom to openly express their sexuality, self-esteem, and, often, their daily functioning, while instances of depression, suicidal thoughts, and even Running head: General Discussion 151

threat to bodily integrity by homophobic violence were also identified. Disclosure to and

acceptance by family members, especially parents, presents a major concern and challenge

for LGB Cypriots, many of whom report that the issue of their sexual orientation is often met

with denial. The frequency and severity of incidents of discrimination and bullying are

particularly disturbing in the school and army settings. It is noted that such incidents may

disproportionately affect gay and bisexual men, as any female sexuality remains, to a large

extent, invisible. At the same time, mistrust for police and authorities prevails. Although

homophobic incidents do occur, and a few were severe, they are neither being reported, nor

publicised, as no police reports or articles relevant to such incidents were identified in the

press.

Such findings are valuable for highlighting specific needs and priorities and guiding development of concrete recommendations for actions targeted at improving the status and safeguarding of the fundamental human rights of all people living in Cyprus, irrespective of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Specifically, the following needs, regarding education, support, policy, and research, are reiterated, or highlighted, as a result of findings from this project:

Education . An imperative need to inform and educate the general public about issues of sexual orientation, that can contribute to increased acceptance, and reduce homophobic and violence phenomena, based on the results of the research project, but also through the understanding of experience. Awareness raising can be achieved through information campaigns addressed toward the general public and through educational programs for various institutions and target groups (parents, teachers, journalists, police officers, etc.). Such training should be provided within the context of trainings on gender and sexuality, and include the notions of gender mainstreaming. Most importantly, regular, and mandatory

Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) from an early age, that includes clear and Running head: General Discussion 152 evidence-based references to sexual orientation, can serve to dilute prevalent myths, misconceptions, and prejudice that permeate society-at-large. Because, currently, the topic of sexual orientation is treated as taboo and avoided in schools, most people receive no accurate information regarding the issue, and instead, their opinions and views are shaped through the prevailing ignorance and misinformation.

Support . Specialized educational and support services are needed for LGBT persons and their families, to support the process of “coming out”, and foster acceptance and communication for families. Parents especially, are perceived as having the greatest difficulties in acceptance the sexual orientation of their LGB sons or daughters, and rank as the “least accepting” by the respondents of our study. Needs for support within the LGBT community should also be addressed, as there are occasions when self-acceptance is difficult; evidence indicates that mistrust and misinformation not uncommon, often leading to isolation and depression.

Policy . On a legal and state level, legislation needs to safeguard protection of all persons from discrimination in the workplace, education, and from hate speech. In accordance, institutions (schools, universities, NGOs, services), should consider implementing policies and guidelines for ensuring non-discrimination for their staff, students, or beneficiaries, and during provision of services. Good practices from the international experience, such as forming committees dealing with diversity or LGBT issues in universities or major employers, and the promotion of LGBT-friendly health services, can be considered and adopted. A coherent national strategy is needed, and concrete policies and actions need to be undertaken to prevent and combat discrimination on all levels. Strengthening co-actions between local stakeholders and human rights actors internationally, such as humanitarian organizations, can serve to promote the human rights, including sexual and reproductive rights free expression of sexuality regardless of sexual orientation. Running head: General Discussion 153

Research . Initial findings from these two studies also stress the need for further, more focused research, to study specific issues related to social discrimination. Further investigation of the needs and experiences LGBT persons, particularly through qualitative research, should follow. Financing of disciplines that deal with gender, identity, sexuality, and related fields of study, and support for young and experienced scientists and researchers in these fields can be conducive for promoting LGBT-research that will enhance our understanding of how sexual orientation is experienced in Cyprus. The establishment of

LGBT studies departments and programs at local and national universities can landmark an important step in this direction.

We are hopeful that evidence provided through these studies will inform decision- makers and stakeholders on the status of LGB(T) issues in Cyprus and encourage mobilization to prevent and address discrimination and eradicate homophobic behavior experienced by LGB(T) persons. We are confident that the recommendations provided above will receive serious consideration by competent authorities, decisions makers, and all stakeholders concerns at furthering human rights for all, and aid to strengthen the climate for fostering acceptance and inclusion of social groups that suffer discrimination, including the

LGB(T) community. Running head: Concluding Remarks 154

Concluding Remarks

Despite alarming evidence of homophobia provided through prior analyses and surveys, public and political discourse on LGBT rights remains low, and policies to prevent or address this situation in institutions such as schools or the workplace are virtually non- existent, as authorities and decision makers prefer not to spark controversies on the matter.

Evidence regarding discourse on LGBT issues and the experiences of LGB people in Cyprus provided through the present study included compelling accounts of discrimination and rejection, while specific gaps and needs are also identified through ongoing sociopolitical discourse. We are hoping that the evidence presented here can further contribute toward promoting visibility of LGBT issues, and used to raise awareness on LGBT issues in Cyprus among decision makers and the public, and that the recommendations provided to competent authorities and stakeholders will be taken into account.

Appendix One: Newspaper Coding Frame

NEWSPAPER CODING FRAME 1. NEWSPAPER NAME 1.1 PHILELEFTHEROS 1.2 POLITIS 1.3 SIMERINI 1.4 CHARAVGI 1.5 ALITHEIA 1.6 KATHIMERINI 1.7 CITY 1.8 CYPRUS MAIL 1.9 CYPRUS WEEKLY

2. CIRCULATION OF NEWSPAPER 2.1. NATIONAL DAILY 2.2. NATIONAL WEEKLY 2.3. FREE PRESS 2.4. ENGLISH LANGUAGE NEWSPAPER

3. DATE RECORD THE DATE THE ARTICLE WAS PUBLISHED

4. PAGE NUMBER INCLUDE PAGE NUMBER, AND TOTAL NO. OF PAGES OF NEWSPAPER WHERE AVAILABLE

5. SECTION IN NEWSPAPER 5.1. COVER PAGE 5.2. POLITICS ( ΠΟΛΙΤΙΚΗ ) 5.3. LOCAL / DOMESTIC NEWS 5.4. SOCIAL ISSUES/ SOCIETY AND PEOPLE (ΚΟΙΝΝΙΚΑ / ΚΟΙΝΝΙΑ ) 5.5. GENERAL INFORMATION 5.6. INTERNATIONAL NEWS (ΙΕΘΝΗ ) 5.7. FINANCE /ECONOMY 5.8. BUSINESS NEWS 5.9. POLICE / CRIME 5.10. COLUMNS (ΠΑΡΑΠΟΛΙΤΙΚΑ ) 5.11. INTERVIEWS 5.12. LETTERS FROM THE READERS 5.13. OPINION / EDITORIAL 5.14. ARTS / CULTURE / LITERATURE/ EVENTS (ΠΟΛΙΤΙΣΜΟΣ ) 5.15. HEALTH / HEALTH ISSUES 5.16. SPORTS 5.17. REPORTS/RESEARCH 5.18. INFORMATIVE (updated 26 th August)

6. ARTICLE TYPE 6.1. COMMENTARY 6.2. OPINION 6.3. EDITORIAL 6.4. INTERVIEW

6.5. POLICE REPORT 6.6. RESEARCH/REPORT 6.7. INFORMATIVE (updated from 26 th August) 6.8. ……………………..

7. AUTHOR NAME 7.1. AUTHOR (NAME OF JOURNALIST OR PERSON WHO WROTE THE ARTICLE) 7.2. ANONYMOUS 7.3. DOESN’T SAY 8. NAME OF FIGURE(S) WHO’S POSITIONS ARE PRESENTED 9. OCCUPATION OF POSITION OF PERSON WHOSE POSITION/OPINION ARE PRESENTED (updated 26 th August) 9.1 MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT 9.2 MINISTER OF ………. 9.3 GENERAL MANAGER OF …… MINISTRY 9.4 GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN 9.5 HEAD OF A POLITICAL PARTY 9.6 POLITICAL PARTY REPRESENTATIVE 9.7 OMBUDSWOMAN 9.8 REPRESENTATIVE FROM OFFICE OF EQUALITY AND ANTIRACISM 9.9 OTHER PUBLIC FIGURE ……………. 9.10 GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEE / BUREAUCRAT 9.11 POLICE REPRESENTATIVE 9.12 ACADEMIC 9.13 TEACHER / EDUCATION PROFESSIONAL 9.14 LAWYER 9.15 JUDGE 9.16 JOURNALIST 9.17 RELIGIOUS FIGURE 9.18 NGO REPRESENTATIVE 9.19 NGO/ HUMAN RIGHTS ACTIVIST 9.20 LGBT RIGHTS ACTIVIST 9.21 CELEBRITY 9.22 STUDENT / YOUNG PERSON 9.23 EXPERT (……… SPECIFY ON WHAT) 9.24 NEWSPAPER READER 9.25 LGBT PERSON 9.26 ………………….

10. OCCUPATION OR POSITION OF AUTHOR 10.1 MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT 10.2 MINISTER OF ………. 10.3 GENERAL MANAGER OF 10…… MINISTRY 10.4 GOVERNMENT SPOKESMAN 10.5 HEAD OF A POLITICAL PARTY 10.6 POLITICAL PARTY REPRFESENTATIVE 10.7 OMBUDSWOMAN 10.8 REPRESENTATIVE FROM OFFICE OF EQUALITY AND ANTIRACISM 10.9 OTHER PUBLIC FIGURE …………….

10.10 GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEE / BUREAUCRAT 10.11 POLICE REPRESENTATIVE 10.12 ACADEMIC 10.13 TEACHER / EDUCATION PROFESSIONAL 10.14 LAWYER 10.15 JUDGE 10.16 JOURNALIST 10.17 RELIGIOUS FIGURE 10.18 NGO REPRESENTATIVE 10.19 NGO/ HUMAN RIGHTS ACTIVIST 10.20 LGBT RIGHTS ACTIVIST 10.21 CELEBRITY 10.22 STUDENT / YOUNG PERSON 10.23 EXPERT (……… SPECIFY ON WHAT) 10.24 NEWSPAPER READER 10.25 LGBT PERSON 10.26 …………………..

11. FUNCTION OF AUTHOR 11.1 POLITICIAN 11.2 PUBLIC FIGURE / POLICY MAKER 11.3 RELIGIOUS FIGURE 11.4 JOURNALIST 11.5 HUMAN RIGHTS ACTIVIST 11.6 EXPERT OR COMMENTATOR 11.7 ORDINARY PERSON (NEWSPAPER READER) 11.8 A PERSON QUOTING A PERSONAL EXPERIENCE 11.9 A VICTIM OF DISCRIMINATION ON THE BASIS OF SEXUAL ORIENTATION 11.10 A VICTIM OF ABUSE (PHYSICAL OR PSYCHOLOGICAL) ON THE BASIS OF SEXUAL ORIENTATION 11.11 MEDIA REPRESENTATIVE 11.12 ……………………………………

12. SEX OF AUTHOR 12.1 MALE 12.2 FEMALE 12.3 OTHER (I.E. TRANSSEXUAL ETC) 12.4 SEX OF AUTHOR NOT MENTIONED

13. SCOPE OF ARTICLE (I.E. REFERS TO EVENTS TAKING PLACE IN CY/ABROAD) 13.1 LOCAL 13.2 NATIONAL 13.3 NATIONAL AND OTHER COUNTRIES (COMPARISON OF CYPRUS AND OTHER COUNTRIES) 13.4 EUROPEAN 13.5 INTERNATIONAL 13.6 GENERAL 13.7 NOT CLEAR

14. GENERAL SUBJECT

14.1 RECOGNITION OF LGBT RIGHTS AS HUMAN RIGHTS 14.2 MARRIAGE/PARTNERSHIP EQUALITY (LEGAL RECOGNITION OF SAME SEX RELATIONSHIPS) 14.3 GENDER IDENTITY / EXPRESSION AND ASSOCIATION 14.4 DISCRIMINATION ON THE BASIS OF SEXUAL ORIENTATION 14.5 VIOLENCE OR PSYCHOLOGICAL ABUSE ON THE BASIS OF SEXUAL ORIENTATION 14.6 PROMOTION OF LGBT RIGHTS AND SUPPORT TO LGBT PERSONS 14.7 PERSONAL EXPERIENCES 14.8 CRITICISM OF HOMOPHOBIA 14.9 ACTIVE SUPPORT TO LGBT 14.10 RELIGION AND HOMOSEXUALITY 14.11 CULTURAL BELIEFS AND HOMOSEXUALITY 14.12 POSITIONS PRESENTED 14.13 POLITICAL P OSITIONS ON HOMOSEXUALITY 14.14 RESEARCH DATA ON HOMOSEXUALITY 14.15 SCIENCE AND HOMOSEXUALITY (updated on 26 th August) 14.16 OTHER …………….

15. AUTHOR'S POSITION/POSITIONS PRESENTED THE ARTICLE REFERS TO, OR CONTAINS THE FOLLOWING ………………….

15.1 RECOGNITION OF LGBT RIGHTS AS HUMAN RIGHTS 15.1.1 RECOGNIZES LGBT RIGHTS AS HUMAN RIGHTS 15.1.2 RECOGNIZES LGBT RIGHTS AS HUMAN RIGHTS, UNDER CERTAIN PRECONDITIONS AND PRESUMPTIONS 15.1.3 NEUTRAL ATTITUDES TOWARDS LGBT RIGHTS (DOES NOT SUPPORT NOR OPPOSES LGBT RIGHTS) 15.1.4 DOES NOT BELIEVE LGBT RIGHTS ARE HUMAN RIGHTS 15.1.5 CONDEMNS HOMOSEXUALITY AS A CRIME AND ENCOURAGES ITS CRIMINALIZATION 15.1.6 CONDEMNS HOMOSEXUALITY AS AN ILLNESS/AS ABNORMAL 15.1.7 THREATS TO A PERSON’S LIFE ON THE BASIS OF SEXUAL ORIENTATION (SPECIFY PROPOSED PUNISHMENT UNDER NOTES) 15.1.8 IMPRISONMENT OF A PERSON ON THE BASIS OF SEXUAL ORIENTATION 15.1.9 NO OPINION EXPRESSED 15.1.10 …………………………………………….

15.2 MARRIAGE EQUALITY (LEGAL RECOGNITION OF SAME SEX RELATIONSHIPS) 15.2.1 OPPOSES CIVIL PARTNERSHIP AND SAME-SEX MARRIAGE 15.2.2 PARTLY SUPPORTS SAME-SEX UNIONS (CIVIL PARTNERSHIP, MARRIAGES) UNDER CERTAIN PRECONDITIONS AND PRESUMPTIONS 15.2.3 IS NEUTRAL ABOUT CIVIL PARTNERSHIP BUT AGAINST SAME-SEX MARRIAGE 15.2.4 IS NEUTRAL ABOUT CIVIL PARTNERSHIP/MARRIAGE/ANY FORM OF SAME-SEX UNION (updated 26 th August)

15.2.5 SUPPORTS CIVIL PARTNERSHIP BUT NOT SAME-SEX MARRIAGE 15.2.6 SUPPORTS CIVIL PARTNERSHIP AND SAME-SEX MARRIAGE 15.2.7 SUPPORTS FREEDOM OF CHOICE (TO MARRY OR NOT) 15.2.8 OPPOSES THE RIGHT OF LGBT PEOPLE TO FOUND A FAMILY (HAVING /ADOPTING CHILDREN) 15.2.9 BELIEVES LGBT PERSONS SHOULD LOSE THEIR PARENTAL /CUSTODY RIGHTS 15.2.10 PARTLY SUPPORTS THE RIGHT OF LGBT PEOPLE TO FOUND A FAMILY UNDER CERTAIN PRECONDITIONS AND PRESUMPTIONS 15.2.11 SUPPORTS THE RIGHT OF LGBT PERSONS TO HAVE/ ADOPT CHILDREN 15.2.12 NO OPINION EXPRESSED 15.2.13 ………………………………………………

15.3 GENDER IDENTITY / EXPRESSION AND ASSOCIATION 15.3.1 CRITICIZES EXPRESSION OF GENDER IDENTITY/SEXUAL ORIENTATION (INCLUDING THROUGH DRESS, SPEECH OR MANNERISMS) 15.3.2 OPPOSES FREEDOM OF ASSEMBLY OR ASSOCIATION OF LGBT PERSONS 15.3.3 SUPPORTS AND ENCOURAGES EXPRESSION OF GENDER IDENTITY, INCLUDING THROUGH DRESS, SPEECH OR MANNERISMS 15.3.4 SUPPORTS AND ENCOURAGES FREEDOM OF ASSEMBLY OR ASSOCIATION OF LGBT PERSONS 15.3.5 ………………………………………….

15.4 DISCRIMINATION ON THE BASIS OF SEXUAL ORIENTATION NEGATIVE STEREOTYPES AGAINST LGBT PERSONS IN GENERAL 15.4.1 NEGATIVE STEREOTYPES OF THE EXPRESSION OF GENDER IDENTITY INCLUDING THROUGH DRESS, SPEECH OR MANNERISMS 15.4.2 DISCRIMINATION IN EMPLOYMENT ON THE BASIS OF SEXUAL ORIENTATION (UNEQUAL EMPLOYMENT AND ADVANCEMENT OPPORTUNITIES AT WORK) 15.4.3 DISCRIMINATION IN THE PROVISION OF MEDICAL SERVICES 15.4.4 DISCRIMINATION IN SOCIAL SECURITY AND OTHER SOCIAL PROTECTION BENEFITS (PARENTAL LEAVE, UNEMPLOYMENT BENEFITS, HEALTH INSURANCE, PENSION ETC.) 15.4.5 DISCRIMINATION IN TERMS OF HOUSING (REFUSAL TO RENT OR PURCHASE A HOUSE) 15.4.6 DISCRIMINATION IN AN EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION (UNEQUAL ACCESS TO EDUCATION, DISMISSAL, UNEQUAL TREATMENT OF STUDENTS/STAFF ETC) 15.4.7 EDUCATION IN SCHOOLS DOES NOT ENCOURAGE UNDERSTANDING OF AND RESPECT FOR DIVERSE SEXUAL ORIENTATIONS 15.4.8 EDUCATION IN SCHOOLS IS PROMOTING DISCRIMINATION AGAINST LGBT PERSONS 15.4.9 DISCRIMINATION IN ATTENDING RELIGIOUS SERVICES 15.4.10 DISCRIMINATION IN PARTICIPATING IN PUBLIC AND POLITICAL LIFE 15.4.11 DISCRIMINATION WHEN RECEIVING SERVICES FROM A GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENT

15.4.12 DISCRIMINATION WHEN RECEIVING SERVICES IN A PUBLIC PLACE (RESTAURANT, BAR, STORE ETC) 15.4.13 DISCRIMINATION IN THE MILITARY SERVICE 15.4.14 DISCRIMINATION IN GRANTING POLITICAL ASYLUM 15.4.15 DISCRIMINATION WITHIN THE FAMILY (updated 26 th August) 15.4.16 …………………………………

15.5 VIOLENCE OR PSYCHOLOGICAL ABUSE ON THE BASIS OF SEXUAL ORIENTATION 15.5.1 BULLYING IN SCHOOLS ON THE BASIS OF SEXUAL ORIENTATION 15.5.2 HATE SPEECH (PUBLIC AND PRIVATE COMMUNICATION WHICH IS DEFAMATORY, RIDICULING, SLANDEROUS, INSULTING, MALICIOUS OR WHICH INCITES DISCRIMINATION, HATRED, OR VIOLENCE AGAINST A PERSON ON ACCOUNT OF SEXUAL ORIENTATION) 15.5.3 CALLING OF NAMES OR OBSCENE CHARACTERIZATIONS OF LGBT PERSONS 15.5.4 RIDICULING/ HUMILIATING LGBT PERSONS 15.5.5 ISOLATION/ EXCLUSION OF LGBT PERSONS 15.5.6 PSYCHOLOGICAL THREATS DIRECTED TO LGBT PERSONS 15.5.7 OFFENSIVE SEXUAL JOKES/ INNUENDOS REGARDING HOMOSEXUALITY/ SEXUAL ORIENTATION 15.5.8 SEXUAL HARASSMENT OR ATTEMPTED RAPE 15.5.9 PHYSICAL VIOLENCE DIRECTED TOWARDS LGBT PERSONS (PUNCHING, KICKING, VIOLENT ATTACK ETC) 15.5.10 HATE CRIME ON THE BASIS OF SEXUAL ORIENTATION IN CYPRUS 15.5.11 CRIME OF HONOR ON THE BASIS OF SEXUAL ORIENTATION IN CYPRUS 15.5.12 HATE CRIME ON THE BASIS OF SEXUAL ORIENTATION IN OTHER COUNTRY 15.5.13 CRIME OF HONOR ON THE BASIS OF SEXUAL ORIENTATION IN OTHER COUNTRY 15.5.14 …………………………………………….

15.6 PROMOTION OF LGBT RIGHTS AND SUPPORT TO LGBT PERSONS 15.6.1 AWARENESS RAISING ON LGBT RIGHTS (IN GENERAL) 15.6.2 ENCOURAGES TRAINING AND AWARENESS-RAISING PROGRAMS AIMED AT TEACHERS AND STUDENTS 15.6.3 AWARENESS RAISING ON LEGAL RECOGNITION OF SAME SEX RELATIONSHIPS 15.6.4 GENERAL STATEMENT OF SUPPORT TO LGBT PERSONS 15.6.5 GENERAL STATEMENT OF SUPPORT OF LGBT RIGHTS 15.6.6 EMPOWERING LGBT PERSONS TO FIGHT FOR THEIR RIGHTS 15.6.7 PROMOTING EXPRESSION OF SEXUAL ORIENTATION AS HEALTHY AND ‘NATURAL’ 15.6.8 POSITIVE PERSONAL STORIES (ABOUT RESPECT AND ACCEPTANCE) ON COMING OUT

15.6.9 SUPPORT TO LGBT PERSONS WHO HAVE BEEN DISCRIMINATED OR ABUSED ON THE BASIS OF THEIR SEXUAL ORIENTATION 15.6.10 OPPOSITION TO OTHER PERSON’S DISCRIMINATORY BEHAVIOR TOWARDS LGBT PERSONS 15.6.11 NEUTRAL / PASSIVE ATTITUDE TOWARDS LGBT PERSONS AND LGBT RIGHTS (I DON’T HAVE A PROBLEM, LEAVE THEM BE, I DON’T MIND) 15.6.12 AMBIVALENT SUPPORT (ARTICLE PRESENTING CONTRADICTORY OPINIONS, BOTH SUPPORTING AND OPPOSING LGBT RIGHTS) 15.6.13 …………………………………………………………..

15.7 PERSONAL EXPERIENCES 15.7.1 WITHHOLDING FROM EXPRESSING GENDER IDENTITY/SEXUAL ORIENTATION 15.7.2 DIFFICULTIES EXPERIENCED IN OPENLY EXPRESSING GENDER IDENTITY/SEXUAL ORIENTATION 15.7.3 FEAR OF BEING ‘RECOGNIZED’ AS A HOMOSEXUAL PERSON AND BEING DISCRIMINATED AGAINST 15.7.4 FEAR OF DISAPPROVAL FROM FAMILY 15.7.5 FEAR OF DISAPPROVAL FROM FRIENDS /COLLEAGUES 15.7.6 FEAR OF BEING ALONE/STIGMATIZED/OSTRACIZED IF OPENLY EXPRESSING GENDER IDENTITY/SEXUAL ORIENTATION 15.7.7 ACTS OF DISAPPROVAL FROM FAMILY 15.7.8 ACTS OF DISAPPROVAL FROM FRIENDS/COLLEAGUES 15.7.9 …………………………………………………..

15.8 CRITICISM OF HOMOPHOBIA 15.8.1 CRITICISM OF OPPOSITION TO HOMOSEXUALITY 15.8.2 CRITICISM OF IGNORANCE ABOUT LGBT 15.8.3 CRITICISM OF SUPERSTITION AGAINST LGBT 15.8.4 CRITICISM OF THE LACK OF ACCEPTANCE OF LGBT BY SOCIETY 15.8.5 CRITICISM OF THE OPPRESSION LGBT ARE SUBJECTED TO BY SOCIETY 15.8.6 PRESENTS LGBT AS NON-PATHOLOGICAL (HEALTHY) PEOPLE 15.8.7 ADDRESSES/DISSOLVES (?) TO STEREOTYPES AND MYTHS ABOUT HOMOSEXUALITY 15.8.8 PRESENTS HOMOPHOBIA AS A SOCIAL PROBLEM 15.8.9 ……………..

15.9 ACTIVE SUPPORT TO LGBT 15.9.1 NEUTRAL

15.10 RELIGION AND HOMOSEXUALITY 15.10.1 GENERAL CRITICISM OF THE POSITION OF RELIGION ON HOMOSEXUALITY 15.10.2 CRITICISM OF THE RELIGIOUS DOGMATISTS 15.10.3 CONDEMNS HOMOSEXUALITY AS A SIN

15.11 CULTURE BELIEFS AND HOMOSEXUALITY 15.11.1 GENDER ROLES AND THEIR NEGATIVE EFFECT ON ACCEPTANCE OF LGBT

15.11.2 PATRIARCHAL SOCIETY WHICH PROMOTES NON-ACCEPTANCE OF LGBT 15.11.3 HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVES TOWARD LGBT/HOMOSEXUALITY 15.11.4 …………..

15.9 SCIENCE AND HOMOSEXUALITY 15.9.1 SEXUAL ORIENTATION DETERMINED BY GENETIC FACTORS 15.9.2 HOMOSEXUALITY/SEXUAL ORIENTATION ARE NOT CLINICAL CONDITIONS 15.9.3 SEXUAL ORIENTATION AND MENTAL HEALTH (DEPRESSION/SUICIDE) 15.9.4 SEXUAL ORIENTATION AS UNCHANGEABLE/”UNTREATABLE” 15.9.5 “CONVERSION” THERAPIES 15.9.6 “CONVERSION” THERAPIES ARE HARMFUL AND GAY PEOPLE SHOULD BE PROTECTED FROM THEM (updated 26 th August) 16 OTHER PERSON(S)’ OR FIGURE(S)’ POSITION (updated 31 st August) THE ARTICLE REFERS TO, OR CONTAINS THE FOLLOWING ………………….

16.1 RECOGNITION OF LGBT RIGHTS AS HUMAN RIGHTS 16.1.1 RECOGNIZES LGBT RIGHTS AS HUMAN RIGHTS 16.1.2 RECOGNIZES LGBT RIGHTS AS HUMAN RIGHTS, UNDER CERTAIN PRECONDITIONS AND PRESUMPTIONS 16.1.3 NEUTRAL ATTITUDES TOWARDS LGBT RIGHTS (DOES NOT SUPPORT NOR OPPOSES LGBT RIGHTS) 16.1.4 DOES NOT BELIEVE LGBT RIGHTS ARE HUMAN RIGHTS 16.1.5 CONDEMNS HOMOSEXUALITY AS A CRIME AND ENCOURAGES ITS CRIMINALIZATION 16.1.6 CONDEMNS HOMOSEXUALITY AS AN ILLNESS/AS ABNORMAL 16.1.7 THREATS TO A PERSON’S LIFE ON THE BASIS OF SEXUAL ORIENTATION (SPECIFY PROPOSED PUNISHMENT UNDER NOTES) 16.1.8 IMPRISONMENT OF A PERSON ON THE BASIS OF SEXUAL ORIENTATION 16.1.9 NO OPINION EXPRESSED 16.1.10 …………………………………………….

16.2 MARRIAGE EQUALITY (LEGAL RECOGNITION OF SAME SEX RELATIONSHIPS) 16.2.1 OPPOSES CIVIL PARTNERSHIP AND SAME-SEX MARRIAGE 16.2.2 PARTLY SUPPORTS SAME-SEX UNIONS (CIVIL PARTNERSHIP, MARRIAGES) UNDER CERTAIN PRECONDITIONS AND PRESUMPTIONS 16.2.3 IS NEUTRAL ABOUT CIVIL PARTNERSHIP BUT AGAINST SAME-SEX MARRIAGE 16.2.4 IS NEUTRAL ABOUT CIVIL PARTNERSHIP/MARRIAGE/ANY FORM OF SAME-SEX UNION (updated 26 th August) 16.2.5 SUPPORTS CIVIL PARTNERSHIP BUT NOT SAME-SEX MARRIAGE 16.2.6 SUPPORTS CIVIL PARTNERSHIP AND SAME-SEX MARRIAGE 16.2.7 SUPPORTS FREEDOM OF CHOICE (TO MARRY OR NOT) 16.2.8 OPPOSES THE RIGHT OF LGBT PEOPLE TO FOUND A FAMILY (HAVING /ADOPTING CHILDREN) 16.2.9 BELIEVES LGBT PERSONS SHOULD LOSE THEIR PARENTAL /CUSTODY RIGHTS

16.2.10 PARTLY SUPPORTS THE RIGHT OF LGBT PEOPLE TO FOUND A FAMILY UNDER CERTAIN PRECONDITIONS AND PRESUMPTIONS 16.2.11 SUPPORTS THE RIGHT OF LGBT PERSONS TO HAVE/ ADOPT CHILDREN 16.2.12 NO OPINION EXPRESSED 16.2.13 ………………………………………………

16.3 GENDER IDENTITY / EXPRESSION AND ASSOCIATION 16.3.1 CRITICIZES EXPRESSION OF GENDER IDENTITY/SEXUAL ORIENTATION (INCLUDING THROUGH DRESS, SPEECH OR MANNERISMS) 16.3.2 OPPOSES FREEDOM OF ASSEMBLY OR ASSOCIATION OF LGBT PERSONS 16.3.3 SUPPORTS AND ENCOURAGES EXPRESSION OF GENDER IDENTITY, INCLUDING THROUGH DRESS, SPEECH OR MANNERISMS 16.3.4 SUPPORTS AND ENCOURAGES FREEDOM OF ASSEMBLY OR ASSOCIATION OF LGBT PERSONS 16.3.5 ………………………………………….

16.4 DISCRIMINATION ON THE BASIS OF SEXUAL ORIENTATION (NEGATIVE STEREOTYPES AGAINST LGBT PERSONS IN GENERAL) 16.4.1 NEGATIVE STEREOTYPES OF THE EXPRESSION OF GENDER IDENTITY INCLUDING THROUGH DRESS, SPEECH OR MANNERISMS 16.4.2 DISCRIMINATION IN EMPLOYMENT ON THE BASIS OF SEXUAL ORIENTATION (UNEQUAL EMPLOYMENT AND ADVANCEMENT OPPORTUNITIES AT WORK) 16.4.3 DISCRIMINATION IN THE PROVISION OF MEDICAL SERVICES 16.4.4 DISCRIMINATION IN SOCIAL SECURITY AND OTHER SOCIAL PROTECTION BENEFITS (PARENTAL LEAVE, UNEMPLOYMENT BENEFITS, HEALTH INSURANCE, PENSION ETC.) 16.4.5 DISCRIMINATION IN TERMS OF HOUSING (REFUSAL TO RENT OR PURCHASE A HOUSE) 16.4.6 DISCRIMINATION IN AN EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION (UNEQUAL ACCESS TO EDUCATION, DISMISSAL, UNEQUAL TREATMENT OF STUDENTS/STAFF ETC) 16.4.7 EDUCATION IN SCHOOLS DOES NOT ENCOURAGE UNDERSTANDING OF AND RESPECT FOR DIVERSE SEXUAL ORIENTATIONS 16.4.8 EDUCATION IN SCHOOLS IS PROMOTING DISCRIMINATION AGAINST LGBT PERSONS 16.4.9 DISCRIMINATION IN ATTENDING RELIGIOUS SERVICES 16.4.10 DISCRIMINATION IN PARTICIPATING IN PUBLIC AND POLITICAL LIFE 16.4.11 DISCRIMINATION WHEN RECEIVING SERVICES FROM A GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENT 16.4.12 DISCRIMINATION WHEN RECEIVING SERVICES IN A PUBLIC PLACE (RESTAURANT, BAR, STORE ETC) 16.4.13 DISCRIMINATION IN THE MILITARY SERVICE 16.4.14 DISCRIMINATION IN GRANTING POLITICAL ASYLUM 16.4.15 DISCRIMINATION WITHIN THE FAMILY (updated 26 th August)

16.4.16 …………………………………

16.5 VIOLENCE OR PSYCHOLOGICAL ABUSE ON THE BASIS OF SEXUAL ORIENTATION 16.5.1 BULLYING IN SCHOOLS ON THE BASIS OF SEXUAL ORIENTATION 16.5.2 HATE SPEECH (PUBLIC AND PRIVATE COMMUNICATION WHICH IS DEFAMATORY, RIDICULING, SLANDEROUS, INSULTING, MALICIOUS OR WHICH INCITES DISCRIMINATION, HATRED, OR VIOLENCE AGAINST A PERSON ON ACCOUNT OF SEXUAL ORIENTATION) 16.5.3 CALLING OF NAMES OR OBSCENE CHARACTERIZATIONS OF LGBT PERSONS 16.5.4 RIDICULING/ HUMILIATING LGBT PERSONS 16.5.5 ISOLATION/ EXCLUSION OF LGBT PERSONS 16.5.6 PSYCHOLOGICAL THREATS DIRECTED TO LGBT PERSONS 16.5.7 OFFENSIVE SEXUAL JOKES/ INNUENDOS REGARDING HOMOSEXUALITY/ SEXUAL ORIENTATION 16.5.8 SEXUAL HARASSMENT OR ATTEMPTED RAPE 16.5.9 PHYSICAL VIOLENCE DIRECTED TOWARDS LGBT PERSONS (PUNCHING, KICKING, VIOLENT ATTACK ETC) 16.5.10 HATE CRIME ON THE BASIS OF SEXUAL ORIENTATION IN CYPRUS 16.5.11 CRIME OF HONOR ON THE BASIS OF SEXUAL ORIENTATION IN CYPRUS 16.5.12 HATE CRIME ON THE BASIS OF SEXUAL ORIENTATION IN OTHER COUNTRY 16.5.13 CRIME OF HONOR ON THE BASIS OF SEXUAL ORIENTATION IN OTHER COUNTRY 16.5.14 …………………………………………….

16.6 PROMOTION OF LGBT RIGHTS AND SUPPORT TO LGBT PERSONS 16.6.1 AWARENESS RAISING ON LGBT RIGHTS (IN GENERAL) 16.6.2 ENCOURAGES TRAINING AND AWARENESS-RAISING PROGRAMS AIMED AT TEACHERS AND STUDENTS 16.6.3 AWARENESS RAISING ON LEGAL RECOGNITION OF SAME SEX RELATIONSHIPS 16.6.4 GENERAL STATEMENT OF SUPPORT TO LGBT PERSONS 16.6.5 GENERAL STATEMENT OF SUPPORT OF LGBT RIGHTS 16.6.6 EMPOWERING LGBT PERSONS TO FIGHT FOR THEIR RIGHTS 16.6.7 PROMOTING EXPRESSION OF SEXUAL ORIENTATION AS HEALTHY AND ‘NATURAL’ 16.6.8 POSITIVE PERSONAL STORIES (ABOUT RESPECT AND ACCEPTANCE) ON COMING OUT 16.6.9 SUPPORT TO LGBT PERSONS WHO HAVE BEEN DISCRIMINATED OR ABUSED ON THE BASIS OF THEIR SEXUAL ORIENTATION 16.6.10 OPPOSITION TO OTHER PERSON’S DISCRIMINATORY BEHAVIOR TOWARDS LGBT PERSONS 16.6.11 NEUTRAL / PASSIVE ATTITUDE TOWARDS LGBT PERSONS AND LGBT RIGHTS (“I DON’T HAVE A PROBLEM”/ “LEAVE THEM BE”/ “I DON’T MIND”)

16.6.12 AMBIVALENT SUPPORT (ARTICLE PRESENTING CONTRADICTORY OPINIONS, BOTH SUPPORTING AND OPPOSING LGBT RIGHTS) 16.6.13 …………………………………………………………..

16.7 PERSONAL EXPERIENCES 16.7.1 WITHHOLDING FROM EXPRESSING GENDER IDENTITY/SEXUAL ORIENTATION 16.7.2 DIFFICULTIES EXPERIENCED IN OPENLY EXPRESSING GENDER IDENTITY/SEXUAL ORIENTATION 16.7.3 FEAR OF BEING ‘RECOGNIZED’ AS A HOMOSEXUAL PERSON AND BEING DISCRIMINATED AGAINST 16.7.4 FEAR OF DISAPPROVAL FROM FAMILY 16.7.5 FEAR OF DISAPPROVAL FROM FRIENDS /COLLEAGUES 16.7.6 FEAR OF BEING ALONE/STIGMATIZED/OSTRACIZED IF OPENLY EXPRESSING GENDER IDENTITY/SEXUAL ORIENTATION 16.7.7 ACTS OF DISAPPROVAL FROM FAMILY 16.7.8 ACTS OF DISAPPROVAL FROM FRIENDS/COLLEAGUES 16.7.9 …………………………………………………..

16.8 CRITICISM OF HOMOPHOBIA 16.8.1 CRITICISM OF OPPOSITION TO HOMOSEXUALITY 16.8.2 CRITICISM OF IGNORANCE ABOUT LGBT 16.8.3 CRITICISM OF SUPERSTITION AGAINST LGBT 16.8.4 CRITICISM OF THE LACK OF ACCEPTANCE OF LGBT BY SOCIETY 16.8.5 CRITICISM OF THE OPPRESSION LGBT ARE SUBJECTED TO BY SOCIETY 16.8.6 PRESENTS LGBT AS NON-PATHOLOGICAL (HEALTHY) PEOPLE 16.8.7 ADDRESSES/DISSOLVES (?) TO STEREOTYPES AND MYTHS ABOUT HOMOSEXUALITY 16.8.8 PRESENTS HOMOPHOBIA AS A SOCIAL PROBLEM 16.8.9 ……………..

16.9 ACTIVE SUPPORT TO LGBT 15.9.1 NEUTRAL

16.10 RELIGION AND HOMOSEXUALITY 16.10.1 GENERAL CRITICISM OF THE POSITION OF RELIGION ON HOMOSEXUALITY 16.10.2 CRITICISM OF THE RELIGIOUS DOGMATISTS 16.10.3 CONDEMNS HOMOSEXUALITY AS A SIN

16.11 CULTURE BELIEFS AND HOMOSEXUALITY 16.11.1 GENDER ROLES AND THEIR NEGATIVE EFFECT ON ACCEPTANCE OF LGBT 16.11.2 PATRIARCHAL SOCIETY WHICH PROMOTES NON-ACCEPTANCE OF LGBT 16.11.3 HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVES TOWARD LGBT/HOMOSEXUALITY 16.11.4 …………..

16.12 SCIENCE AND HOMOSEXUALITY 16.12.4 SEXUAL ORIENTATION DETERMINED BY GENETIC FACTORS 16.12.5 HOMOSEXUALITY/SEXUAL ORIENTATION ARE NOT CLINICAL CONDITIONS 16.12.6 SEXUAL ORIENTATION AND MENTAL HEALTH (DEPRESSION/SUICIDE) 16.12.7 SEXUAL ORIENTATION AS UNCHANGEABLE/”UNTREATABLE” 16.12.8 “CONVERSION” THERAPIES 16.12.9 “CONVERSION” THERAPIES ARE HARMFUL AND GAY PEOPLE SHOULD BE PROTECTED FROM THEM (updated 26 th August)

17 NOTES ANY ADDITIONAL CLARIFICATIONS OR SPECIFICATIONS WITH REGARDS TO THE CODES USED UNDER AUTHOR’S POSITION (I.E. IF DOCUMENTING ABUSE SPECIFY THE TYPE OF ABUSE, IF DOCUMENTING STEREOTYPES LIST THE STEREOTYPES USED, IF THERE ARE PRECONDITIONS/PRESUMPTIONS PRESENT WHAT ARE THEY, ETC)

18 REFERENCE TO ANY RELEVANT POLICY 18.1 YES, THE ARTICLE MENTIONS, QUOTES OR REFERS TO SPECIFIC LEGISLATION/POLICY/LAW/REGULATION/GUIDELINES ON ANTIDISCRIMINATION OR HUMAN RIGHTS 18.2 NO, NO MENTION OF LEGISLATION/POLICY/LAW/REGULATION/GUIDELINES ON ANTIDISCRIMINATION OR HUMAN RIGHTS

19 POLICY MENTIONED RECORD LEGISLATION/POLICY/LAW/REGULATION/GUIDELINES QUOTED BY THE ARTICLE AUTHOR

Appendix Two: Questionnaire Για επίσηη χρήση

ΕΡΤΗΜΑΤΟΛΟΓΙΟ ΑΝΑΦΟΡΙΚΑ ΜΕ ΤΗΝ ΚΟΙΝΝΙΚΗ ΚΑΤΑΣΤΑΣΗ ΤΝ ΛΕΣΒΙΝ ΟΜΟΦΥΛΟΦΙΛΝ ΚΑΙ ΑΜΦΙΣΕΞΟΥΑΛΙΚΝ

Η παρούσα ελέτη στην οποία καλείστε να συετάσχετε διεξάγεται από τον Κυπριακό Σύνδεσο Οικογενειακού Προγραατισού ( ΚΣΟΠ ) και την οργάνωση Accept-LGBT Cyprus, στα πλαίσια του προγράατος «Σεξουαλικός προσανατολισός στην Κύπρο : Χαρτογράφηση του κοινωνικοπολιτικού κλίατος , των επειριών και αναγκών ». Το πρόγραα χρηατοδοτείται από την ILGA (International Lesbian and Gay Association – ιεθνής Ένωση Λεσβιών και Οοφυλοφίλων )- Ευρώπης στα πλαίσια της 7ης Πρόσκλησης Προτάσεων από το Ταείο Τεκηρίωσης Παραβιάσεων των Ανθρωπίνων ικαιωάτων .

Σας καλούε να συετάσχετε επειδή ας ενδιαφέρουν οι επειρίες σας σε διάφορες πτυχές της καθηερινής σας ζωής (π.χ. εργασία , σχολείο , οικογένεια , φίλοι , κοινότητα ως λεσβίες , οοφυλόφιλα ή αφισεξουαλικά άτοα ΣΤΗΝ ΚΥΠΡΟ .

Η συετοχή σας στην παρούσα ελέτη είναι απόλυτα εθελοντική και πορείτε να επιλέξετε να αποσυρθείτε από αυτή οποιαδήποτε στιγή . Εάν επιλέξετε να συετάσχετε , σας διαβεβαιώνουε ότι θα τηρηθεί ΑΠΟΛΥΤΗ ΑΝΝΥΜΙΑ ΚΑΙ ΕΜΠΙΣΤΕΥΤΙΚΟΤΗΤΑ σε σχέση ε οποιεσδήποτε πληροφορίες καταχωρήσετε στο παρόν ερωτηατολόγιο . ΠΑΡΑΚΑΛΟΥΜΕ ΜΗ ΓΡΑΨΕΤΕ ΤΟ ΟΝΟΜΑΤΕΠΝΥΜΟ ΣΑΣ ΣΤΟ ΕΡΤΗΜΑΤΟΛΟΓΙΟ .

Σας παροτρύνουε να ενηερώσετε τους φίλους σας για το πρόγραα αυτό και να τους ενθαρρύνετε να συπληρώσουν το παρόν ερωτηατολόγιο . Μπορείτε να συπληρώσετε το ερωτηατολόγιο ηλεκτρονικά . Μπορείτε ακόα αν επιθυείτε να φωτοτυπήσετε το ερωτηατολόγιο ή να το κατεβάσετε από την ιστοσελίδα ας , ή ακόη και να ας ζητήσετε σας το στείλουε έσω ηλεκτρονικού ταχυδροείου , φαξ ή ταχυδροικώς .

Τα αποτελέσατα της παρούσας έρευνας θα δηοσιευτούν σε ια έκθεση η οποία θα συνοδεύεται από συστάσεις πολιτικής για τη βελτίωση της κοινωνικής κατάστασης των λεσβιών , οοφυλοφίλων και αφισεξουαλικών ατόων στη χώρα ας , την Κύπρο . Η έκθεση θα υποβληθεί επίσης στην κυβέρνηση , σε βουλευτές και τα έσα αζικής ενηέρωσης . Μπορεί επίσης να χρησιοποιηθεί σε Ευρωπαϊκό επίπεδο κατά την παρουσίαση πληροφοριών ενώπιον του Συβουλίου της Ευρώπης και της Ευρωπαϊκής Ένωσης . Οποιεσδήποτε εκθέσεις προκύψουν θα βασίζονται στα συνολικά ευρήατα της ελέτης και ΚΑΜΙΑ ΣΥΓΚΕΚΡΙΜΕΝΗ ΠΡΟΣΠΙΚΗ ΠΛΗΡΟΦΟΡΙΑ Ε ΘΑ ΜΕΤΑΟΘΕΙ .

Αν συπληρώνετε το ερωτηατολόγιο αυτό σε έντυπη ορφή :

Παρακαλούε όπως επιστρέψετε το συπληρωένο ερωτηατολόγιο στο σηείο επαφής για την πόλη σας , για το οποίο δίνονται στοιχεία παρακάτω . Εάν έχετε συπληρώσει έντυπο αντίγραφο του ερωτηατολογίου παρακαλούε επιστρέψτε το σε κλειστό φάκελο . Εάν θα το στείλετε ε ηλεκτρονικό ταχυδροείο παρακαλούε στείλτε το στο σηείο επαφής σας .

ιεύθυνση επικοινωνίας του υπεύθυνου επικοινωνίας / επαφής για την πόλη σας ……………………………. Υπεύθυνος / Σηείο επαφής για την πόλη σας : …………………………………………………………………

Παρακαλούε όπως επιστρέψετε το συπληρωένο ερωτηατολόγιο στο σηείο επαφής για την πόλη σας , για τον οποίο θα σας δοθούν από τους διοργανωτές στοιχεία παρακάτω . Εάν έχετε συπληρώσει έντυπο αντίγραφο του ερωτηατολογίου παρακαλούε επιστρέψτε το σε κλειστό φάκελο .

Ηεροηνία έχρι την οποία πρέπει το συπληρωένο ερωτηατολόγιο να επιστραφεί : ………………….

Εάν έχετε οποιεσδήποτε ερωτήσεις σε σχέση ε το ερωτηατολόγιο ή θα θέλατε να άθετε περισσότερα για το πρόγραα πορείτε να επικοινωνήσετε ε τους συντονιστές της Μελέτης των οργανώσεών ας οι οποίοι είναι :

Μαρία Επαεινώνδα Εκτελεστική ιευθύντρια Προσωρινή Συντονιστική Επιτροπή Κυπριακός Σύνδεσος Οικογενειακού accept LGBT Cyprus Προγραατισού T ηλ . 99812343 Λεύκωνος 20, 2064 Λευκωσία [email protected] Τηλ .:22751093, Φαξ :22757495 www.acceptCY.org e-mail:[email protected] www.cyfamplan.org

Σας ευχαριστούε εκ των προτέρων για τη στήριξη και τη συνεργασία σας !

169 Για επίσηη χρήση

ΕΡΤΗΜΑΤΟΛΟΓΙΟ

Παρακαλούε συπληρώστε το παρόν ερωτηατολόγιο δίνοντας πληροφορίες από τις επειρίες σας ως λεσβία , ή οοφυλόφιλο ή αφισεξουαλικό άτοο ΣΤΗΝ ΚΥΠΡΟ .

Το ερωτηατολόγιο που ακολουθεί συγκεντρώνει πληροφορίες ε 2 τρόπους :

1. Μέσω ερωτήσεων πολλαπλής επιλογής . Παρακαλούε σηειώστε το κουτάκι δίπλα από την απάντηση που ισχύει στην περίπτωσή σας . 2. Παραχωρώντας σας χώρο για να δώσετε λεπτοερή περιγραφή οποιουδήποτε περιστατικού διακρίσεων έχετε βιώσει . Τα σηεία αυτά είναι ΠΡΟΑΙΡΕΤΙΚΑ . Αν όως τα απαντήσετε , παρακαλούε όπως ας δώσετε όλες τις λεπτοέρειες της επειρίας σας – η περιγραφή σας θα έχει εγάλη σηασία στην έκθεσή ας . Εάν ο χώρος που προσφέρεται δεν επαρκεί για να περιγράψετε την επειρία σας πορείτε να χρησιοποιήσετε επιπρόσθετες σελίδες .

Παρακαλούε διαβάστε όλες τις ερωτήσεις προσεκτικά και απαντήστε σε ΟΛΕΣ τις ερωτήσεις που σας αφορούν .

Εφόσον αυτή η ελέτη αφορά στην τρέχουσα κατάσταση στην Κυπριακή κοινωνία , όταν αναφέρεστε σε περιστατικά παρακαλούε να αναφέρεστε σε περιστατικά που έλαβαν χώρα ΣΤΗΝ ΚΥΠΡΟ .

ΜΕΡΟΣ Α – ΓΕΝΙΚΕΣ ΠΛΗΡΟΦΟΡΙΕΣ

1. Σηερινή ηεροηνία : ……………………………

2. Προσδιορίζετε τον εαυτό σας ως : Άρρεν  Θήλυ  Άλλο 

3. Προσδιορίζετε τον εαυτό σας ως :

Λεσβία  Αφισεξουαλική (bisexual) Γυναίκα  Οοφυλόφιλο Άνδρα  Άλλο  Αφισεξουαλικό (bisexual) Άνδρα  Εάν απαντήσατε « Άλλο » παρακαλώ προσδιορίστε : ______4. Ηλικία : ______

5. Που ζείτε σήερα ; ( πόλη /χωριό και χώρα ) ______

6. Που γεννηθήκατε /εγαλώσατε ;( πόλη /χωριό και χώρα ) ______

7. Η υψηλότερη βαθίδα εκπαίδευσης που ολοκλήρωσατε είναι :

ηοτική  ευτεροβάθια ( Λύκειο )  Γυνασιακή  Κολλέγιο /Πανεπιστήιο  Επαγγελατική  Μεταπτυχιακή 

8. Αυτή τη στιγή είστε ( σηειώστε όσα ισχύουν για εσάς ):

Μαθητής Λυκείου  εν εργάζοαι  Φοιτητής Κολλεγίου /Πανεπιστηίου  Άλλο  Εργάζοαι  Εάν απαντήσατε « Άλλο » παρακαλώ διευκρινίστε ______

170

ΜΕΡΟΣ B – ΣΧΕΣΕΙΣ

1. Είστε αυτό τον καιρό σε σχέση ;

Ναι  Όχι 

Εάν απαντήσατε « Όχι », ήσασταν ποτέ σε σχέση ;

Ναι  Όχι 

Εάν δεν είστε αυτό τον καιρό σε σχέση , αλλά ήσασταν στο παρελθόν πριν από πόσο καιρό ήταν η τελευταία σας σχέση ; ______

2. Η τρέχουσα ή πιο πρόσφατη σας σχέση είναι /ήταν ….;

Λεσβιακή /οοφυλοφιλική σχέση όνο  Ετεροφυλοφιλική σχέση όνο  Παράλληλη οοφυλοφιλική και ετεροφυλοφιλική σχέση 

3. Πόσο καιρό είστε στην τρέχουσα , ή ήσασταν στην πιο πρόσφατή σας σχέση ;

Λιγότερο από έξι ήνες  3-5 χρόνια  6-12 ήνες  6-10 χρόνια  1-2 χρόνια  πάνω από 10 χρόνια 

4. Έχετε εγαλώσει ή εγαλώνετε παιδί /παιδιά σε λεσβιακή /οοφυλοφιλική σχέση ;

Ναι  Όχι 

ΜΕΡΟΣ Γ – ΚΟΙΝΝΙΚΕΣ ΣΥΜΠΕΡΙΦΟΡΕΣ

1. Σε ποιο βαθό , κατά τη γνώη σας , γίνονται αποδεκτές οι εξής οάδες ανθρώπων από την κοινωνία στην Κύπρο ; Παρακαλούε επιλέξτε τον αριθό που αντιστοιχεί σε αυτό που εσείς πιστεύετε ότι ισχύει για την κάθε οάδα ε βάση την εξής κλίακα :

1 = εν είναι καθόλου αποδεκτοί 2 = Είναι ελάχιστα αποδεκτοί 3 = Κάπως αποδεκτοί 4 = Αρκετά αποδεκτοί 5 = Εντελώς αποδεκτοί

εν είναι Είναι ελάχιστα Κάπως Αρκετά Εντελώς καθόλου αποδεκτοί αποδεκτοί αποδεκτοί αποδεκτοί αποδεκτοί Λεσβίες 1 2 3 4 5 Οοφυλόφιλοι Άνδρες 1 2 3 4 5 Αφισεξουαλικές 1 2 3 4 5 (bisexual) Γυναίκες Αφισεξουαλικοί 1 2 3 4 5 (bisexual) Άνδρες ιαφυλικά (transgender) 1 2 3 4 5 Άτοα

171

ΜΕΡΟΣ – ΚΟΙΝΝΙΚΟΣ ΚΥΚΛΟΣ

1. Ποια από τα εξής έλη της οικογένειάς σας /φίλοι /κοινωνικός περίγυρος γνωρίζουν για τον σεξουαλικό σας προσανατολισό ; Παρακαλούε επιλέξτε τον αριθό που αντιστοιχεί σε αυτό που εσείς πιστεύετε ότι ισχύει για την κάθε οάδα ε βάση την εξής κλίακα :

0= εν ισχύει ( δεν έχω επαφή ε αυτά τα άτοα , ή δεν υπάρχουν στον κοινωνικό ου κύκλο ) 1 = Σίγουρα δε γνωρίζουν 2= εν είαι σίγουρος /η αν γνωρίζουν 3 = Κάποιοι γνωρίζουν και κάποιοι όχι 4= Σίγουρα γνωρίζουν

εν Σίγουρα δε εν είαι σίγουρος /η Κάποιοι Σίγουρα γνωρίζουν ισχύει γνωρίζουν για το αν γνωρίζουν για το γνωρίζουν για το σεξουαλικό σεξουαλικό ου σεξουαλικό ου αλλά ου προσανατολισό προσανατολισό κάποιοι δε προσανατολισό γνωρίζουν Μητέρα 0 1 2 4 Πατέρας 0 1 2 4 Αδελφοί 0 1 2 3 4 Αδελφές 0 1 2 3 4 Τα παιδιά σας 0 1 2 3 4 Παππούδες /γιαγιάδες 0 1 2 3 4 Θείοι 0 1 2 3 4 Θείες 0 1 2 3 4 Ξαδέλφια 0 1 2 3 4 Ανιψιοί /ανιψιές 0 1 2 3 4 Οι φίλοι ου 0 1 2 3 4 Συαθητές /συφοιτητές 0 1 2 3 4 άσκαλοι 0 1 2 3 4 Συνάδελφοι 0 1 2 3 4 Αφεντικό 0 1 2 3 4

2. ΟΣΟΙ ΓΝΡΙΖΟΥΝ ΓΙΑ ΤΟ ΣΕΞΟΥΑΛΙΚΟ ΣΑΣ ΠΡΟΣΑΝΑΤΟΛΙΣΜΟ πως το έαθαν ; ( για όσους απαντήσατε 3 ή 4 πιο πάνω )

0 = εν ισχύει ( δεν έχω επαφή ε αυτά τα άτοα , ή δεν υπάρχουν στον κοινωνικό ου κύκλο , ή δε γνωρίζουν για το σεξουαλικό ου προσανατολισό ) 1 = ε γνωρίζουν για το σεξουαλικό ου προσανατολισό 2= Τους το αποκάλυψα ε τη δική ου ελεύθερη βούληση 3 = Το έαθαν από άλλους και δε ε πειράζει 4 = Το έαθαν από άλλους ενάντια στη δική ου θέληση

εν Τους το αποκάλυψα ε Έαθαν για το Έαθαν για το ισχύει τη δική ου ελεύθερη σεξουαλικό ου σεξουαλικό ου βούληση προσανατολισό από προσανατολισό από άλλους και δε ε άλλους ενάντια στη δική πειράζει ου θέληση Μητέρα 0 1 2 3 Πατέρας 0 1 2 3 Αδελφοί 0 1 2 3 Αδελφές 0 1 2 3 Τα Παιδιά σας 0 1 2 3 Ευρύτερη Οικογένεια 0 1 2 3 (θείοι , ξαδέλφια κλπ ) Οι φίλοι ου 0 1 2 3 Συαθητές /συφοιτητές 0 1 2 3 άσκαλοι 0 1 2 3 Συνάδελφοι 0 1 2 3 Αφεντικό 0 1 2 3

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3. Ποια ήταν η αντίδραση της οικογένειας και του κοινωνικού σας περίγυρου όταν έαθαν για ΠΡΤΗ φορά για το σεξουαλικό σας προσανατολισό ; Παρακαλούε επιλέξτε τον αριθό που αντιστοιχεί σε αυτό που εσείς πιστεύετε ότι ισχύει για το κάθε άτοο /την κάθε οάδα ε βάση την εξής κλίακα :

0 = εν ισχύει ( ε γνωρίζουν για το σεξουαλικό ου προσανατολισό ) 1 = Εξαιρετικά εχθρική 2 = Κάπως εχθρική 3 = Ούτε εχθρική ούτε υποστηρικτική 4 = Κάπως υποστηρικτική 5 = Εξαιρετικά υποστηρικτική

εν ισχύει ( ε Εξαιρετικά Κάπως Ούτε εχθρική Κάπως Εξαιρετικά γνωρίζουν για το εχθρική εχθρική ούτε υποστηρικτική υποστηρικτική σεξουαλικό ου υποστηρικτική προσανατολισό ) Μητέρα 0 1 2 3 4 5 Πατέρας 0 1 2 3 4 5 Αδελφοί 0 1 2 3 4 5 Αδελφές 0 1 2 3 4 5 Τα Παιδιά σας 0 1 2 3 4 5 Ευρύτερη Οικογένεια 0 1 2 3 4 5 Οι φίλοι ου 0 1 2 3 4 5 Συαθητές /συφοιτητές 0 1 2 3 4 5 άσκαλοι 0 1 2 3 4 5 Συνάδελφοι 0 1 2 3 4 5 Αφεντικό 0 1 2 3 4 5

4. Σε πιο βαθό θα λέγατε ότι τα έλη της οικογένειας /φίλοι / κοινωνικός περίγυρος αποδέχονται το σεξουαλικό σας προσανατολισό ΑΥΤΗ ΤΗ ΣΤΙΓΜΗ ; 0= εν ισχύει ( ε γνωρίζουν για το σεξουαλικό ου προσανατολισό ) 1= εν τον αποδέχονται καθόλου 2= Τον αποδέχονται ελάχιστα 3= Τον αποδέχονται κάπως 4= Τον αποδέχονται αρκετά 5= Τον αποδέχονται πλήρως

εν ισχύει ( ε εν τον Τον Τον Τον Τον γνωρίζουν για το αποδέχοντα αποδέχονται αποδέχονται αποδέχονται αποδέχονται σεξουαλικό ου ι καθόλου ελάχιστα κάπως αρκετά πλήρως προσανατολισό Μητέρα 0 1 2 3 4 5 Πατέρας 0 1 2 3 4 5 Αδελφοί 0 1 2 3 4 5 Αδελφές 0 1 2 3 4 5 Τα παιδιά σας 0 1 2 3 4 5 Ευρύτερη 0 1 2 3 4 5 Οικογένεια Οι φίλοι ου 0 1 2 3 4 5 Συαθητές / 0 1 2 3 4 5 συφοιτητές άσκαλοι 0 1 2 3 4 5 Συνάδελφοι 0 1 2 3 4 5 Αφεντικό 0 1 2 3 4 5

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5. Πόσο άνετα αισθάνεστε να εκφράζετε τη σεξουαλικότητά σας στην παρουσία των εξής ανθρώπων από τον κοινωνικό σας περίγυρο ; Στην περίπτωση της ευρύτερης οικογένειας , των φίλων , συναδέλφων , δασκάλων και συαθητών /συφοιτητών παρακαλούε όπως αναφερθείτε στο εύρος της αποδοχής σύφωνα ε την πλειοψηφία του συνόλου αυτών .

0= εν ισχύει ( ε γνωρίζουν για το σεξουαλικό ου προσανατολισό ) 1= Εντελώς άβολα 2= Κάπως άβολα 3= Ουδέτερα 4= Κάπως άνετα 5= Εντελώς άνετα

εν ισχύει ( ε Εντελώς Κάπως Ουδέτερα Κάπως Εντελώς γνωρίζουν για το άβολα άβολα άνετα άνετα σεξουαλικό ου προσανατολισό ) Μητέρα 0 1 2 3 4 5 Πατέρας 0 1 2 3 4 5 Αδελφοί 0 1 2 3 4 5 Αδελφές 0 1 2 3 4 5 Τα παιδιά σας 0 1 2 3 4 5 Ευρύτερη Οικογένεια 0 1 2 3 4 5 Οι φίλοι ου 0 1 2 3 4 5 Συαθητές /συφοιτητές 0 1 2 3 4 5 άσκαλοι 0 1 2 3 4 5

6. Μπορείτε να αναφέρετε οποιαδήποτε άλλα σχόλια ή επειρίες που αφορούν το πώς βιώνετε το σεξουαλικό σας προσανατολισό /ταυτότητα στον κοινωνικό σας περίγυρο στο χώρο που σας παρατίθεται πιο κάτω ( ΠΡΟΑΙΡΕΤΙΚΑ ):

ΜΕΡΟΣ Ε – ΣΜΑΤΙΚΗ ΒΙΑ ΚΑΙ ΨΥΧΟΛΟΓΙΚΗ ΠΑΡΕΝΟΧΛΗΣΗ

E1. Σωατική βία

1. Ενώ βρισκόσασταν ΣΤΗΝ ΚΥΠΡΟ , δεχτήκατε ποτέ σωατική επίθεση επειδή ήταν γνωστό ή επειδή υπήρχε η υποψία ότι είστε λεσβία , οοφυλόφιλος ή αφισεξουαλικός ; ( ε τον όρο σωατική επίθεση εννοούε αν σας χτυπήσαν ή κλώτσησαν επανειληένα , αν ας έσπρωξαν βίαια , χτύπησαν , κλώτσησαν, τράβηξαν , επιτέθηκαν ε όπλο /αχαίρι , παρενόχλησαν σεξουαλικά , απόπειρα βιασού κλπ .)

Όχι ποτέ  ( εάν απαντήσατε « Όχι » - πηγαίνετε στο σηείο Ε2, στην ερώτηση 10, στη σελ .8 ) Ναι , ία φορά  Ναι , δύο φορές  Ναι , τρεις ως πέντε φορές  Ναι , περισσότερες από πέντε φορές 

Πότε έλαβε χώρα αυτή η σωατική επίθεση ;/ Πότε έλαβαν χώρα αυτές οι σωατικές επιθέσεις ; (παρακαλούε σηειώστε το ήνα και έτος κάθε περιστατικού ) ______

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2. Τι ορφή είχε η επίθεση ; / Τι ορφή είχαν οι επιθέσεις ; ΠΑΡΑΚΑΛΟΥΜΕ ΣΗΜΕΙΣΤΕ ΟΛΑ ΟΣΑ ΙΣΧΥΟΥΝ

Με χτύπησαν ή κλώτσησαν κατ ’ Σεξουαλική παρενόχληση επανάληψη  (π.χ. σας άγγιξαν χωρίς τη θέλησή σας )  Με έσπρωξαν , χτύπησαν , κλώτσησαν , Σεξουαλική επίθεση ( π.χ. βιασός ή απόπειρα τράβηξαν βίαια , γρονθοκόπησαν  βιασού )  Μου επιτέθηκαν ε όπλο /αχαίρι  Άλλο ( προσδιορίστε ) ______

3. Ποια ήταν η ταυτότητα του ατόου που σας επιτέθηκε ; ΠΑΡΑΚΑΛΟΥΜΕ ΣΗΜΕΙΣΤΕ ΟΛΑ ΟΣΑ ΙΣΧΥΟΥΝ

Φίλος  Αδελφός / αδελφή  Γνωστός  Άλλο έλος της οικογένειας  Συαθητής /Συφοιτητής  Αστυνοικός  Συνάδελφος  Άγνωστο σας πρόσωπο  Αφεντικό  Πρόσωπο σε θέση εξουσίας άσκαλος  (προσδιορίστε ) ______ Γείτονας  Άλλο πρόσωπο Μητέρα  (προσδιορίστε ) ______ Πατέρας 

4. Που έλαβε χώρα η σωατική βία ; ΠΑΡΑΚΑΛΟΥΜΕ ΕΠΙΛΕΞΤΕ ΟΛΑ ΟΣΑ ΙΣΧΥΟΥΝ

ρόοι  Στρατός  Πάρκα  Σε Σπίτι  Καταστήατα /παρ /κλαπ /εστιατόρια  Αλλού  ηόσια εταφορικά έσα  Αν απαντήσατε « Αλλού » Χώρος Εργασίας  Αναφέρετε που ______Σχολείο 

5. Παρακαλούε περιγράψτε το /τα περιστατικό /ά όπου σας επιτέθηκαν σωατικά . Παρακαλούε όπως συπεριλάβετε όσες λεπτοέρειες επιθυείτε ( εάν πρόκειται για περισσότερα από ένα περιστατικά παρακαλούε περιγράψτε το κάθε περιστατικό ξεχωριστά ) (ΠΡΟΑΙΡΕΤΙΚΑ )

6. Μετά το περιστατικό /α αυτό /α, αναζητήσατε στήριξη από κάποιον ;

Ναι  Όχι 

Εάν « Ναι », από ποιον ; ______

7. Καταγγείλατε το /τα περιστατικό /ά στην αστυνοία ;

Ναι  Όχι 

Εάν απαντήσατε « Όχι » παρακαλούε δηλώστε το λόγο / τους λόγους που δεν το αναφέρατε :

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8. Εάν ναι , ποια ήταν η αντίδραση της αστυνοίας ; ΣΗΜΕΙΣΤΕ ΣΤΗΝ ΚΛΙΜΑΚΑ ΠΙΟ ΚΑΤ

Καθόλου Εξαιρετικά Υποστηρικτική 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Ένδειξη ενδιαφέροντος 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Εχθρική 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Ευγενική 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

9. Μπορείτε να εξηγήσετε ε δικά σας λόγια πως σας συπεριφέρθηκε η αστυνοία όταν καταγγείλατε το περιστατικό αυτό ; Αναφέρατε καθόλου ΤΟ ΛΟΓΟ της επίθεσης στην αστυνοία ( δηλαδή το γεγονός ότι σας επιτέθηκαν σωατικά λόγω του σεξουαλικού σας προσανατολισού ); Εάν ναι , αισθανόσασταν άνετα να ιλήσετε στην αστυνοία για το λόγο που δεχτήκατε επίθεση ; Ποια ήταν η αντίδρασή τους ; (ΠΡΟΑΙΡΕΤΙΚΑ )

E2. Ψυχολογική Βία

10. Ενώ βρισκόσασταν ΣΤΗΝ ΚΥΠΡΟ , υπεστήκατε ποτέ ψυχολογική βία επειδή ήταν γνωστό ή επειδή υπήρχε η υποψία ότι είστε λεσβία , οοφυλόφιλος ή αφισεξουαλικό άτοο ; ( ε τον όρο ψυχολογική βία εννοούε προσβολές , εξευτελισό , γελοιοποίηση , κακόβουλο κουτσοπολιό , απειλές , εξοστρακισό , αποκλεισό , εχθρική αλληλογραφία , απειλές , βλάβη ή κλοπή περιουσίας , προσβλητικά σεξουαλικά ανέκδοτα ή σχόλια , σεξουαλικά υπονοούενα , διαδικτυακή παρενόχληση ή άλλου είδους παρενόχληση έσω ηλεκτρονικών κοινωνικών δικτύων όπως για παράδειγα το facebook κλπ .).

Όχι  (Αν απαντήσατε « Όχι » πηγαίνετε στην ερώτηση 20, σελ . 10)

Ναι  Εάν απαντήσατε « Ναι », πόσο συχνά ;

Σπανίως ( ια ή δυο φορές )  Μερικές φορές  Αρκετές Φορές  ιαρκώς 

11. Εάν ναι , πότε ; ( δηλώστε το ήνα και έτος κάθε περιστατικού ) ______

12. Η παρενόχληση είχε ορφή : ΠΑΡΑΚΑΛΟΥΜΕ ΣΗΜΕΙΣΤΕ ΟΛΑ ΟΣΑ ΙΣΧΥΟΥΝ

Προσβολών , εξευτελισού , Προσβλητικών σεξουαλικών γελοιοποίησης  ανέκδοτων /σχολίων, σεξουαλικών Κακόβουλου κουτσοπολιού  υπονοούενων  Απειλών /Εκβιασού  ιαδικτυακή παρενόχληση Κακόβουλων Σχολίων κατά των (ηλεκτρονικά ηνύατα , blogs, οοφυλοφίλων /λεσβιών  facebook, online κοινωνικά δίκτυα , Εξοστρακισού  chats)  Εχθρική αλληλογραφία  Άλλη  Βλάβης ή κλοπής της περιουσίας σας  (προσδιορίστε ) ______Αποκλεισού /Αποόνωσης 

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13. Ποια ήταν η ταυτότητα του ατόου που σας παρενόχλησε ; ΠΑΡΑΚΑΛΟΥΜΕ ΣΗΜΕΙΣΤΕ ΟΛΑ ΟΣΑ ΙΣΧΥΟΥΝ

Φίλος  Αδελφός / αδελφή  Γνωστός  Άλλο έλος της οικογένειας  Συαθητής /Συφοιτητής  Αστυνοικός  Συνάδελφος  Άγνωστο σας πρόσωπο  Αφεντικό  Πρόσωπο σε θέση εξουσίας άσκαλος  (προσδιορίστε ) ______ Γείτονας  Άλλο πρόσωπο ( προσδιορίστε )  Μητέρα  ______Πατέρας 

14. Που έλαβε χώρα η ψυχολογική παρενόχληση ; ΠΑΡΑΚΑΛΟΥΜΕ ΣΗΜΕΙΣΤΕ ΟΛΑ ΟΣΑ ΙΣΧΥΟΥΝ

ρόους  Σχολείο  Πάρκα  Στρατό  Καταστήατα /παρ / Σε σπίτι  κλαπ /εστιατόρια  Στο διαδίκτυο  ηόσια εταφορικά έσα  Αλλού  Χώρο Εργασίας  (προσδιορίστε πού ) ______

15. Παρακαλούε περιγράψτε το περιστατικό /τα περιστατικά όπου δεχτήκατε ψυχολογική βία . Παρακαλούε όπως συπεριλάβετε όσες λεπτοέρειες επιθυείτε ( εάν πρόκειται για περισσότερα από ένα περιστατικά παρακαλούε περιγράψτε το κάθε περιστατικό ξεχωριστά ) (ΠΡΟΑΙΡΕΤΙΚΑ )

16. Αναζητήσατε στήριξη από κάποιον κατόπιν του /των περιστατικού /ών αυτού /ών ;

Ναι  Όχι 

Εάν « Ναι », από ποιον ; ______

17. Καταγγείλατε τα περιστατικά αυτά στην αστυνοία ;

Ναι  Όχι 

Εάν απαντήσατε « Όχι » παρακαλούε δηλώστε το λόγο / λόγους γι ’ αυτό (ΠΡΟΑΙΡΕΤΙΚΟ ):

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18. Εάν ναι , ποια ήταν η αντίδραση της αστυνοίας όταν καταγγείλατε τα περιστατικά αυτά ; ΣΗΜΕΙΣΤΕ ΣΤΗΝ ΚΛΙΜΑΚΑ ΠΙΟ ΚΑΤ

Καθόλου Εξαιρετικά Υποστηρικτική 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Ένδειξη ενδιαφέροντος 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Εχθρική 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Ευγενική 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

19. Μπορείτε να εξηγήσετε ε δικά σας λόγια πως σας συπεριφέρθηκε η αστυνοία όταν καταγγείλατε το περιστατικό αυτό ; Αναφέρατε καθόλου ΤΟ ΛΟΓΟ της παρενόχλησης στην αστυνοία ( δηλαδή το γεγονός ότι σας παρενόχλησαν λόγω του σεξουαλικού σας προσανατολισού ); Εάν ναι , αισθανθήκατε άνετα να ιλήσετε για το λόγο που δεχτήκατε παρενόχληση στην αστυνοία ; Ποια ήταν η αντίδρασή τους ; (ΠΡΟΑΙΡΕΤΙΚΑ )

E3. Αντίκτυπος

20. Συνολικά πόση δυσφορία σας προκάλεσαν αυτά τα περιστατικά ψυχολογικής ή σωατικής βίας ;

Καία δυσφορία Εξαιρετικά εγάλη δυσφορία 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

21. Με ποιους τρόπους επηρέασαν τη ζωή σας αυτά τα περιστατικά ψυχολογικής ή σωατικής βίας ; Παρακαλώ εξηγείστε . (ΠΡΟΑΙΡΕΤΙΚΑ ).

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ΜΕΡΟΣ ΣΤ ’ – Ο ΧΡΟΣ ΕΡΓΑΣΙΑΣ

1. Έχετε εργαστεί ποτέ ΣΤΗΝ ΚΥΠΡΟ ;

Ναι  Όχι  (εάν απαντήσατε « Όχι » πηγαίνετε στο επόενο Μέρος , Μέρος Ζ)

2. Ενώ βρισκόσαστε ΣΤΗΝ ΚΥΠΡΟ έχετε ποτέ βιώσει ΟΠΟΙΑΗΠΟΤΕ από τις πιο κάτω καταστάσεις στο χώρο εργασίας ή κατά τη διάρκεια της αίτησή σας για εργασία λόγω του ότι ήταν γνωστό ή υπήρχε η υποψία ότι είστε λεσβία , οοφυλόφιλος ή αφισεξουαλικός ; ΠΑΡΑΚΑΛΟΥΜΕ ΣΗΜΕΙΣΤΕ ΟΛΑ ΟΣΑ ΙΣΧΥΟΥΝ

Άρνηση απασχόλησης  Γενικά , σας συπεριφέρθηκαν Άρνηση προαγωγής ή αύξησης  άσχηα /άδικα οι ( πιθανοί ) Απόλυση  συνάδελφοί σας  Υψηλότερες προσδοκίες σε Γενικά , σας συπεριφέρθηκαν σύγκριση ε άλλους άσχηα /άδικα οι ( πιθανοί ) υπαλλήλους /υποψηφίους  εργοδότες σας  Άρνηση για ανάθεση κάποιας Άλλο ( παρακαλούε καθορίστε )  συγκεκριένης εργασίας ή ιας ______συγκεκριένης θέσης εργασίας  Κανένα από τα πιο πάνω 

3. Εάν βιώσατε οποιαδήποτε από αυτές τις καταστάσεις , παρακαλούε όπως περιγράψετε τι συνέβη : Παρακαλούε όπως συπεριλάβετε όσες λεπτοέρειες επιθυείτε στο χώρο που παρέχεται πιο κάτω . (ΠΡΟΑΙΡΕΤΙΚΑ )

Απόκρυψη σεξουαλικού προσανατολισού στο χώρο εργασίας

4. Αισθανθήκατε ποτέ την ανάγκη να αποκρύψετε το σεξουαλικό σας προσανατολισό ή να αποφύγετε να συζητήσετε το θέα αυτό στο χώρο εργασίας σας ΣΤΗΝ ΚΥΠΡΟ ;

0= εν ισχύει ( εν έχω καία επαφή ε αυτά τα άτοα ) 1= Απέκρυψα το σεξουαλικό ου προσανατολισό από όλους 2= Απέκρυψα το σεξουαλικό ου προσανατολισό από τους περισσότερους 3= Απέκρυψα το σεξουαλικό ου προσανατολισό από κάποιους αλλά είαι ανοικτός /η ε κάποιους άλλους 4= Είαι ανοικτός /η σε σχέση ε το σεξουαλικό ου προσανατολισό ε τους περισσότερους 5= Είαι ανοικτός /η σε σχέση ε το σεξουαλικό ου προσανατολισό ε όλους εν Απέκρυψα το Απέκρυψα το Απέκρυψα το Είαι ανοικτός /η Είαι ανοικτός /η ισχύει σεξουαλικό ου σεξουαλικό ου σεξουαλικό ου σε σχέση ε το σε σχέση ε το προσανατολισό προσανατολισό προσανατολισό σεξουαλικό ου σεξουαλικό ου από όλους από τους από κάποιους προσανατολισό προσανατολισό περισσότερους αλλά είαι ε τους ε όλους ανοικτός /η ε περισσότερους κάποιους άλλους Συναδέλφους 0 1 2 3 4 5 Εργοδότες , 0 1 2 3 4 5 αφεντικά Πελάτες 0 1 2 3 4 5 Παιδιά , 0 1 2 3 4 5 εφήβους Άλλους 0 1 2 3 4 5 (καθορίστε ) ______

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ΜΕΡΟΣ Ζ – ΣΧΟΛΕΙΑ ΚΑΙ ΠΑΝΕΠΙΣΤΗΜΙΑ (ΑΠΑΝΤΗΣΤΕ ΑΥΤΟ ΤΟ ΜΕΡΟΣ ΑΝ ΕΙΣΤΕ ΤΡΑ Η ΥΠΗΡΞΑΤΕ ΚΑΤΑ ΤΑ ΤΕΛΕΥΤΑΙΑ ΥΟ ΧΡΟΝΙΑ ΜΑΘΗΤΗΣ /ΤΡΙΑ Η ΦΟΙΤΗΤΗΣ /ΤΡΙΑ ΣΤΗΝ ΚΥΠΡΟ )

1. Είστε αυτή τη στιγή σε σχολείο ή πανεπιστήιο ΣΤΗΝ ΚΥΠΡΟ ;

Ναι  Όχι 

2. Υπήρξατε αθητής /τρια ή φοιτητής /φοιτήτρια στην Κύπρο κατά τα τελευταία δύο χρόνια ;

Ναι  Πότε ; ______Όχι  (Αν απαντήσατε “ Όχι » - πηγαίνετε στο επόενο Μέρος , Μέρος Η, σελ . 13)

3. Αισθανθήκατε ποτέ την ανάγκη να αποκρύψετε το σεξουαλικό σας προσανατολισό ή να αποφύγετε να συζητήσετε το θέα αυτό στο σχολείο /πανεπιστήιό σας ΣΤΗΝ ΚΥΠΡΟ ;

1= Απέκρυψα το σεξουαλικό ου προσανατολισό από όλους 2= Απέκρυψα το σεξουαλικό ου προσανατολισό από τους περισσότερους 3= Απέκρυψα το σεξουαλικό ου προσανατολισό από κάποιους αλλά είαι ανοικτός /η ε κάποιους άλλους 4= Είαι ανοικτός /η σε σχέση ε το σεξουαλικό ου προσανατολισό ε τους περισσότερους 5= Είαι ανοικτός /η σε σχέση ε το σεξουαλικό ου προσανατολισό ε όλους

Απέκρυψα το Απέκρυψα το Απέκρυψα το Είαι Είαι σεξουαλικό ου σεξουαλικό ου σεξουαλικό ου ανοικτός /η σε ανοικτός /η σε προσανατολισό προσανατολισό προσανατολισό σχέση ε το σχέση ε το από όλους από τους από κάποιους σεξουαλικό ου σεξουαλικό ου περισσότερους αλλά είαι προσανατολισό προσανατολισό ανοικτός /η ε ε τους ε όλους κάποιους περισσότερους άλλους άσκαλους 1 2 3 4 5 Άλλο σχολικό /πανεπιστηιακό 1 2 3 4 5 προσωπικό Άλλους 1 2 3 4 5 αθητές /φοιτητές Άλλους ( καθορίστε ) ______1 2 3 4 5

4. Έχετε βιώσει ποτέ ΟΠΟΙΑΗΠΟΤΕ από τις εξής καταστάσεις στο σχολείο ή το πανεπιστήιό σας ΣΤΗΝ ΚΥΠΡΟ λόγω του σεξουαλικού σας προσανατολισού ; ΠΑΡΑΚΑΛΟΥΜΕ ΣΗΜΕΙΣΤΕ ΟΛΑ ΟΣΑ ΙΣΧΥΟΥΝ

Σας συπεριφέρθηκαν άδικα Γενικά ια άδικη συπεριφορά από δάσκαλοι /καθηγητές  έρους των συαθητών /συφοιτητών Ψηλότερες /χαηλότερες προσδοκίες σε σας  σύγκριση ε άλλους αθητές /φοιτητές  Άλλο ( παρακαλούε προσδιορίστε )  Άρνηση συγκεκριένης ανάθεσης ______εργασίας ή έργου  Αποκλεισός ή αποόνωση από Κανένα από τα πιο πάνω  άλλους αθητές /φοιτητές 

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ΜΕΡΟΣ Η - ΥΠΗΡΕΣΙΕΣ

1. Έγινε ποτέ διάκριση εναντίων σας ή σας συπεριφέρθηκαν λιγότερο ευνοϊκά ΚΑΤΑ ΤΗ ΙΑΙΚΑΣΙΑ ΛΗΨΗΣ ΥΠΗΡΕΣΙΝ στους εξής χώρους ΣΤΗΝ ΚΥΠΡΟ λόγω του σεξουαλικού σας προσανατολισού (επειδή είστε ή νόιζαν ότι είστε οοφυλόφιλος /λεσβία /αφισεξουαλικό άτοο ); ΠΑΡΑΚΑΛ ΣΗΜΕΙΣΤΕ ΟΛΑ ΟΣΑ ΙΣΧΥΟΥΝ

Κυβερνητικά τήατα ή υπηρεσίες  Καταστήατα  Τοπική Αυτοδιοίκηση ( δήοι , Θέατρα  κοινοτικά κέντρα κλπ .)  Κινηατογράφοι  ικαστήρια  Λεωφορεία  Αστυνοικός Σταθός  Ταξί  Στρατός  Παραλίες  Εκκλησία  Άλλοι δηόσιοι χώροι  Τράπεζες  Άλλοι χώροι  Μπαρ  (προσδιορίστε που )______Κλαπ  Όχι , πουθενά 

2. Ενώ βρισκόσασταν στην ΚΥΠΡΟ βιώσατε ποτέ οποιαδήποτε από τις εξής διακρίσεις λόγω του σεξουαλικού σας προσανατολισού (επειδή είστε ή νόιζαν ότι είστε οοφυλόφιλος /λεσβία /αφισεξουαλικός ); ΠΑΡΑΚΑΛΟΥΜΕ ΣΗΜΕΙΣΤΕ ΟΛΑ ΟΣΑ ΙΣΧΥΟΥΝ

ΚΥΒΕΡΝΗΣΗ /ΤΟΠΙΚΗ ΑΥΤΟΙΟΙΚΗΣΗ Κάποιοι αρνήθηκαν να σας βοηθήσουν  Υπήρχε αδικαιολόγητη καθυστέρηση σε σχέση ε την εξυπηρέτησή σας  ΙΑΤΡΟΦΑΡΜΑΚΕΥΤΙΚΗ ΠΕΡΙΘΑΛΨΗ Τύχατε κακόβουλου κουτσοπολιού ή κριτικής για τον τρόπο ζωής σας από έρους του ιατρικού /νοσηλευτικού προσωπικού  Σας ζητήθηκε να κάνετε επιπρόσθετες ιατρικές εξετάσεις  Το ιατρικό /νοσηλευτικό προσωπικό χρησιοποίησε επιπρόσθετη υγειονοική προστασία  Σας αρνήθηκαν πρόσβαση σε ιατρικές υπηρεσίες  Σας απέρριψαν ως αιοδότη  Το ιατρικό /νοσηλευτικό προσωπικό αρνήθηκε να σας παράσχει βοήθεια  ΜΠΑΡ /ΕΣΤΙΑΤΟΡΙΑ /ΚΛΑΜΠ /ΠΑΡΑΛΙΕΣ /ΚΑΤΑΣΤΗΜΑΤΑ Κάποιος σερβιτόρος /πάραν /πωλητής δίσταζε να σας εξυπηρετήσει  Τύχατε κακόβουλης κριτικής για την εφάνισή σας / τη συπεριφορά σας από το προσωπικό  Κάποιος σερβιτόρος /πάραν /πωλητής είπε ένα προσβλητικό σεξουαλικό ανέκδοτο /σχόλιο σε βάρος σας  Σας αρνήθηκαν την είσοδο σε κάποιο παρ /εστιατόριο /παραλία /κατάστηα  Υπήρχε αδικαιολόγητη καθυστέρηση σε σχέση ε την εξυπηρέτησή σας  Αποφύγατε τα φιλιά ή να κρατήσετε το χέρι του /της συντρόφου σας του ιδίου φύλου σε δηόσιο χώρο  ΣΤΕΓΑΣΗ Κάποιος ιδιοκτήτης ήταν διστακτικός να σας νοικιάσει ή να σας πουλήσει το σπίτι του  ΕΚΚΛΗΣΙΑ Κάποιος ιερέας σας παρεπόδισε από το να εισέλθετε σε ια εκκλησία ή να παραστείτε στη λειτουργία  Κάποιος ιερέας αρνήθηκε να σας δώσει Θεία Κοινωνία  Κάποιος ιερέας σας κατέκρινε ή πρόσβαλε επειδή είστε οοφυλόφιλο άτοο  ΟΧΙ , ΠΟΥΘΕΝΑ 

3. Εάν επιθυείτε να αναφέρετε οποιοδήποτε άλλο παράδειγα ή σχόλιο σε σχέση ε διακρίσεις που τυχόν να υπεστήκατε στα πλαίσια λήψης υπηρεσιών , πορείτε να χρησιοποιήσετε το χώρο που σας παρατίθεται πιο κάτω :

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ΜΕΡΟΣ Θ – ΤΑ ΠΡΟΣΠΙΚΑ ΣΑΣ ΣΥΝΑΙΣΘΗΜΑΤΑ ΣΕ ΣΧΕΣΗ ΜΕ ΤΟ ΣΕΞΟΥΑΛΙΚΟ ΣΑΣ ΠΡΟΣΑΝΑΤΟΛΙΣΜΟ

Παρακαλώ υποδείξτε σε ποιο βαθό συφωνείτε ή διαφωνείτε ε την κάθε ια από τις ακόλουθες δηλώσεις : Συφωνώ έντονα ------ ιαφωνώ έντονα 1 Οι εφανώς θηλυπρεπείς οοφυλόφιλοι άνδρες ε κάνουν 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 να αισθάνοαι άβολα 2 Προτιώ να έχω ανώνυους /εφήερους σεξουαλικούς 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 συντρόφους 3 ε θα ήταν ευκολότερη η ζωή αν ήουν ετεροφυλόφιλος 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 4 Οι περισσότεροι ου φίλοι είναι 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 οοφυλόφιλοι /λεσβίες /αφισεξουαλικοί 5 εν αισθάνοαι άνετα να φλερτάρω ένα άτοο του ιδίου 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 φύλου 6 Αισθάνοαι άνετα σε gay bar 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 7 Οι κοινωνικές συνευρέσεις ε οοφυλόφιλους 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 άνδρες /λεσβίες γυναίκες ε κάνουν να αισθάνοαι άβολα 8 ε ου αρέσει να σκέφτοαι το σεξουαλικό ου 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 προσανατολισό 9 Όταν σκέφτοαι άλλους 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 οοφυλόφιλους /λεσβίες /αφισεξουαλικούς κάνω αρνητικούς συνειρούς ιδεών 10 Αισθάνοαι άνετα να ε δουν δηοσίως ε ένα άντρα ο 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 οποίος είναι εφανώς οοφυλόφιλος ή ια γυναίκα ή οποία είναι εφανώς λεσβία 11 Αισθάνοαι άνετα να συζητώ το σεξουαλικό ου 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 προσανατολισό δηοσίως 12 Είναι σηαντικό για ένα να ελέγχω ποιος γνωρίζει για το 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 σεξουαλικό ου προσανατολισό 13 Οι πλείστοι άνθρωποι έχουν αρνητικές αντιδράσεις προς 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 την οοφυλοφιλία 14 Η οοφυλοφιλία δεν είναι ενάντια στο θέληα του Θεού 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 15 Η κοινωνία συνεχίζει να τιωρεί τους ανθρώπους που 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 είναι οοφυλόφιλοι /λεσβίες /αφισεξουαλικοί 16 ιααρτύροαι εάν ειπωθεί ένα ανέκδοτο κατά των 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 οοφυλοφίλων στην παρουσία ου 17 Ανησυχώ για το ότι θα γεράσω και θα παραείνω 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 οοφυλόφιλος / λεσβία /αφισεξουαλικός 18 Ανησυχώ ότι εγαλώνοντας θα γίνω η ελκυστικός /η 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 19 Θα προτιούσα να είαι πιο ετεροφυλόφιλος 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 20 Οι πλείστοι άνθρωποι δεν κάνουν διακρίσεις κατά των 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 οοφυλοφίλων /λεσβιών / αφισεξουαλικών ατόων 21 Αισθάνοαι άνετα ως 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 οοφυλόφιλος /λεσβία /αφισεξουαλικό άτοο 22 Προσωπικά πιστεύω ότι η οοφυλοφιλία είναι ηθικώς 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 αποδεκτή 23 Γενικά 24 εν ανησυχώ αν άθει κανείς ότι είαι 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 οοφυλόφιλος /λεσβία /αφισεξουαλικό άτοο 25 Οι διακρίσεις κατά των 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 οοφυλόφιλων /λεσβιών /αφισεξουαλικών ατόων είναι ακόα κοινό φαινόενο 26 Ακόα και αν πορούσα να αλλάξω το σεξουαλικό ου 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 προσανατολισό δε θα το έκανα 27 Η οοφυλοφιλία είναι τόσο φυσική όσο και η 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 ετεροφυλοφιλία 28 Οι εφανώς αρρενωπές λεσβίες γυναίκες ε κάνουν να αισθάνοαι άβολα

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ΜΕΡΟΣ Ι – ΣΥΝΗΓΟΡΙΑ ΚΑΙ ΠΡΟΑΣΠΙΣΗ (LOBBYING)

1. Γνωρίζετε για την οάδα “accept-LGBT Cyprus”, η οποία υπερασπίζεται τα δικαιώατα των ΛΟΑ ατόων στην Κύπρο ; ΠΑΡΑΚΑΛΟΥΜΕ ΣΗΜΕΙΣΤΕ ΟΛΑ ΟΣΑ ΙΣΧΥΟΥΝ

Ναι  Όχι  εν είαι σίγουρος /η 

Εάν « Ναι », πως άθατε για την οάδα ;

ιαδίχτυο Από τον Κυπριακό Σύνδεσο (ιστοσελίδα /facebook/blogs/email)  Οικογενειακού Προγραατισού  Έντυπο στο πανεπιστήιο /κολλέγιο / ΜΜΕ ( τηλεόραση , ραδιόφωνο , εφηερίδες ) χώρο εργασίας ου  Από στόα σε στόα ( π.χ. φίλος /η)  Άλλο ( παρακαλούε προσδιορίστε )  ______

2. Ποιο ρόλο θα θέλατε να διαδραατίσει η οάδα “accept-LGBT Cyprus” έσα στην κυπριακή κοινωνία ;

3. Κατά πόσο θα θέλατε η οάδα αυτή να αναλάβει τις παρακάτω δράσεις για τη στήριξη των ΛΟΑ ατόων στην Κύπρο ;

0 = ε θα έπρεπε να αναλάβει τέτοιες δράσεις αυτή καθόλου 1 = Θα έπρεπε να έχει ελάχιστη ανάιξη ε τέτοιες δράσεις 2 = Θα έπρεπε να έχει έτρια ανάιξη ε τέτοιες δράσεις 3 = Θα έπρεπε να έχει αρκετή ανάιξη ε τέτοιες δράσεις 4 = Θα έπρεπε να έχει σηαντική ανάιξη ε τέτοιες δράσεις

Καθόλου Ελάχιστη Μέτρια Αρκετή Σηαντική Συνηγορία 0 1 2 3 4 (Advocacy) Lobbying/ Προάσπιση 0 1 2 3 4 Ευαισθητοποίηση 0 1 2 3 4 ραστηριότητες 0 1 2 3 4 πληροφόρησης και εκπαίδευσης Υπηρεσίες Στήριξης 0 1 2 3 4 και συβουλευτική Έρευνα 0 1 2 3 4 Άλλες δράσεις 0 1 2 3 4 (καθορίστε ) ______

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4. Ποια δικαιώατα των ΛΟΑ ατόων θα θέλατε να προωθήσει η οάδα αυτή στην Κύπρο ; Παρακαλούε υποδείξτε αυτά που είναι σηαντικότερα για σας ( εάν έχετε να υποδείξετε περισσότερα από ένα δικαιώατα , παρακαλούε όπως τα κατατάξετε ε σειρά προτεραιότητας αναγράφοντας 1 δίπλα από το κάθε ένα που θεωρείτε το πιο σηαντικό , 2 δίπλα από το κάθε ένα που θεωρείτε δεύτερο πιο σηαντικό και ούτω καθεξής )

____ ικαίωα στην ισότητα και την η διάκριση σε όλους τους τοείς ____ ικαίωα στην προστασία από οοφοβικές επιθέσεις , από εκετάλλευση , κακοποίηση και βία ____ ικαίωα στον γάο και την δηιουργία οικογένειας ____ ικαίωα της ελεύθερης κυκλοφορίας προσώπων ____ ικαίωα στην παροχή ασύλου ____ Υπηρεσίες φιλικές προς τα ΛΟΑ άτοα (στους τοείς της υγείας , παιδείας , εργασιακού χώρου κλπ .) ____ Άλλο ( παρακαλούε καθορίστε ) ______

5. Ποιες υπηρεσίες θα θέλατε να παρέχει αυτή η οάδα στην Κύπρο ; ( παρακαλούε κατατάξτε τις ε σειρά προτεραιότητας αναγράφοντας 1 δίπλα σε αυτή που θεωρείτε την πιο σηαντική , 2 δίπλα σε αυτή που θεωρείτε τη δεύτερη πιο σηαντική και ούτω καθεξής ).

____ Εκπαίδευση για το ευρύ κοινό ( σεινάρια , δηοσιεύσεις ) ____ Εκπαίδευση /στήριξη γονέων /οικογενειών ΛΟΑ ατόων ____ Τηλεφωνική γραή βοήθειας ____ Οάδες στήριξης για τα έλη της κοινότητας ΛΟΑ ____ Άλλο ( παρακαλούε καθορίστε )

6. Θα θέλατε να έχετε επλοκή στην οάδα ‘’accept-LGBT Cyprus”;

Ναι  Όχι  εν είαι βέβαιος /η 

Εάν « ναι » σε ποιο επίπεδο βλέπετε αυτή την επλοκή ;

Ενεργό έλος της οάδας ε προσφορά σε οάδα εργασίας  Συετοχή στις δραστηριότητες της οργάνωσης χωρίς περαιτέρω συετοχή σε οάδα εργασίας  Υποστήριξη της οργάνωσης έσω καταβολής ετήσιας συνδροής και λήψης ενηερωτικών δελτίων  Άλλο ( παρακαλούε καθορίστε ) 

7. Εάν διοργανωνόταν ια εκδήλωση Gay Pride στην Κύπρο έσα στον επόενο ήνα θα θέλατε να συετέχετε ;

Ναι  Όχι  εν είαι σίγουρος /η 

Γιατί /Γιατί όχι ;

8. Πως άθατε για αυτή την έρευνα ;

ιαδίκτυο ( ιστοσελίδες /facebook/blogs)  Από την οάδα accept-LGBT CY  Έντυπο στο πανεπιστήιο / από στόα σε στόα ( φίλος /η)  κολλέγιο /χώρο εργασίας ου  Άλλο ( παρακαλούε καθορίστε )  Από τον Κυπριακό Σύνδεσο ______Οικογενειακού Προγραατισού 

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ΜΕΡΟΣ Κ - ΑΛΛΑ

Παρακαλούε όπως χρησιοποιήσετε το χώρο πιο κάτω για να προσθέσετε Ο,ΤΙΗΠΟΤΕ ΑΛΛΟ θεωρείτε σηαντικό σε σχέση ε τις επειρίες σας ως οοφυλόφιλο /αφισεξουαλικό άτοο ή λεσβία ΣΤΗΝ ΚΥΠΡΟ το οποίο αισθάνεστε ότι δεν καλύφθηκε επαρκώς από το παρόν ερωτηατολόγιο ( ΠΡΟΑΙΡΕΤΙΚΟ )

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------ΤΕΛΟΣ ΤΟΥ ΕΡΤΗΜΑΤΟΛΟΓΙΟΥ ΣΑΣ ΕΥΧΑΡΙΣΤΟΥΜΕ ΓΙΑ ΤΗ ΣΥΜΜΕΤΟΧΗ ------

Πιθανόν να επικοινωνήσουε αζί σας για ια δεύτερη φάση της έρευνας . Η φάση αυτή θα περιλαβάνει συπλήρωση κάποιων επιπρόσθετων ερωτηατολογίων , και θα είναι επίσης ΑΝΝΥΜΗ και ΕΜΠΙΣΤΕΥΤΙΚΗ .

Παρακαλώ δηλώστε κατά πόσο δίνετε τη συγκατάθεσή σας να επικοινωνήσουε αζί σας για τη δεύτερη φάση της έρευνας , βάζοντας √ στο αντίστοιχο κουτί :

ε συφωνώ να επικοινωνήσουν αζί ου οι ερευνητές για τη δεύτερη φάση 

Συφωνώ να επικοινωνήσουν αζί ου οι ερευνητές για τη δεύτερη φάση 

Αν συφωνείτε να επικοινωνήσουε αζί σας για τη δεύτερη φάση , θα χρειαστούε τα στοιχεία επικοινωνίας σας ( τηλέφωνο ή email). Για διασφάλιση της επιστευτικότητας .

ΠΑΡΑΚΑΛ ΣΗΜΕΙΣΕΤΕ ΤΑ ΣΤΟΙΧΕΙΑ ΑΥΤΑ ΜΟΝΟ ΣΤΟ ΚΟΥΤΙ ΠΙΟ ΚΑΤ , ΚΑΙ ΟΧΙ ΣΤΟ ΥΠΟΛΟΙΠΟ ΕΡΤΗΜΑΤΟΛΟΓΙΟ .

------ΓΙΑ ΠΕΡΙΣΣΟΤΕΡΕΣ ΠΛΗΡΟΦΟΡΙΕΣ ΜΠΟΡΕΙΤΕ ΝΑ ΕΠΙΚΟΙΝΝΗΣΕΤΕ :

Μαρία Επαεινώνδα , Εκτελεστική ιευθύντρια , Προσωρινή Συντονιστική Επιτροπή Κυπριακός Σύνδεσος Οικογενειακού accept LGBT Cyprus Προγραατισού Τηλ . 99812343 Λεύκωνος 20, ια . 303, 2064 Λευκωσία [email protected] Τηλ . 22751093, Φαξ 22757495 www.acceptCY.org e-mail:[email protected] www.cyfamplan.org

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