In a context of the ongoing discussions in Barbados regarding the Sexual Offences Act, the United Nation’s Development Programme Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean in collaboration with the University of the West Indies are focusing on improving knowledge and data to promote more inclusive policies. Under the “Being LGBTI in the Caribbean” BLIC Project, a National LGBTI Survey was launched on December 16, 2022.

This survey is designed to assess the exclusion and discrimination of the LGBTI population through the collection of data on the LGBTI Community in Barbados enjoying their fundamental rights. 

“Discrimination of any kind cannot be tolerated, and it is important to understand the intrinsic vulnerabilities that this community faces to support the development of inclusive programmes, policies and initiatives to empower the LGBTI community,” said Limya Eltayeb, Resident Representative of Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean. She added that ultimately, the exercise aims to improve knowledge and data on situations of violence, stigma and discrimination faced by the LGBTI Community.  

The survey will be distributed online and is 100% anonymous. The specific objectives of the survey are to identify the sociodemographic characteristics of the LGBTI population residing in Barbados and assess the lived realities of LGBTI persons in Barbados.  

At the national level, the collection of data and analysis of the challenges the LGBTI community faces will be significant towards eliciting pertinent recommendations which can inform the development and advancement of inclusive policies. It is envisioned that the findings of the study will contribute to improving the capacity of governments, civil society and LGBTI organizations to address and reduce the inequality, exclusion, violence, and discrimination suffered by LGBTI people. 

The survey can be accessed via https://caribdata.org/redcap/surveys/?s=FRDRDDHHDWERXTTF

It is vital that developmental efforts continue to reinforce the need for regional resilience, building forward better build and bolstering livelihoods for traditionally vulnerable groups. UNDP Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, in partnership with governments and stakeholders, remains dedicated to the advancement of inclusive and sustainable development throughout the region. This intervention is part of the work of UNDP Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean in its commitment to promoting social inclusion and ensuring no one is left behind.