In 2011, UNESCO convened the first-ever UN international consultation on homophobic bullying in educational institutions, recognizing that this complex and sensitive issue needs to be addressed as part of wider efforts to prevent school-related violence and gender-based violence, in order to achieve quality education for all.
Since then UNESCO has expanded its work on school-related gender-based violence, including preventing and addressing homophobic and transphobic violence in educational settings, as part of its mandate to ensure that learning environments are safe, inclusive and supportive for all and its contribution to the achievement of the new global 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
As part of this work, and within the framework of a three-year programme supported by the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Education and Respect for All: Preventing and Addressing Homophobic and Transphobic Bullying in Educational Institutions, UNESCO has provided support for efforts to improve the evidence base, including the global review of homophobic and transphobic violence in educational settings and of education sector responses that provided the basis for this report. These efforts have contributed to a better understanding of the nature, scale and effects of violence in schools, including the links between school-related gender-based violence and violence based on sexual orientation and gender identity/expression, and of the elements of a comprehensive education sector response.
This report presents the main findings of the global review. It aims to give an analysis of the most up-to-date data on the nature, scope and impact of violence based on sexual orientation and gender identity/expression and of current action. It also intends to provide education sector stakeholders with a framework for planning and implementing effective responses to violence based on sexual orientation and gender identity/expression as part of wider efforts to prevent and address violence in schools.