On the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia, citizens and activists held a peaceful demonstration in Tirana’s Mother Teresa Square.
Those in attendance spoke about the challenges that members of the LGBTI community face in Albania. LGBTI people in the country are unable to get married or enter a civil partnership, nor are they eligible to adopt, or able to change their gender markers on official documents.
They noted that many LGBTI individuals not only face inequality and discrimination in the eyes of the law but also from their family members and community.
A lesbian couple who welcomed twin girls at the end of 2020 gave an example of their struggle. As of now, under Albanian law, only the birthing parent is recognized as having any legal rights over the babies.
Activists held rainbow-colored balloons and gave short speeches. A rainbow flag was also laid in the center of the square.
“We are here to promote diversity, equality, and love. We are here for a better society and for social justice. We are here, ready to start the fight in every social, state, and legal battle that will proceed the guarantee of our fundamental rights. We are here for resistance, we are here for ourselves, we are here for each other united and proud. Although under the condition of a prolonged pandemic, love and solidarity will always win. The only vaccine in this pandemic is love!”
Over half of Albanian LGBTI individuals say they have experienced psychological violence and bullying and around 20% have been sexually harassed. Recent figures showed that during the COVID-19 pandemic, there were 16 reports of rape and 33 reports of violence. 25 people reported being blackmailed over their LGBTI status and 16 said they were fired from their jobs for this reason. Only 7% took legal action.
Despite ongoing police training, many LGBTI individuals do not trust institutions and rarely file complaints. Many that do note that their complaints do not make it to court.
A study conducted by Streha found that 80% of LGBTI Albanians had considered leaving the country due to issues they faced because of their status. In 2019, at least 17 LGBTI filed for asylum abroad.
The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in a number of problems for the marginalized LGBTI community. Between March and December, Streha and Aleanca supported 117 people with 800 food packages. One in four said they struggled to cover their basic needs such as food, medication, clothes, and shelter.
The pandemic also led to job losses, with half of the 47% who are out of work losing their job during the state of emergency. Trans sex workers found themselves struggling as lockdowns and a heavy police presence on the streets meant they were unable to make money to cover their basic needs.
