This factsheet presents the findings of a survey conducted by Barama to examine the experiences of discrimination, bullying, and violence faced by LGBTI+ individuals during their school years in Azerbaijan.

Data collection was carried out between July 2025 and March 2026, with a total of 102 individuals participating in the survey. 8 responses were excluded from the analysis due to incompleteness.

Of these, 30 responses were collected through focus group discussions, while the remaining responses were gathered via online outreach and direct individual invitations.

What do the results tell us?

1

1 in 3 respondents experienced bullying, discrimination, or physical violence during their school years due to their LGBTI+ identity. The majority of those who faced these experiences were gay and transgender individuals.

2

Without exception, everyone was subjected to verbal harassment (insults, derogatory remarks, stereotypes), while 2 out of 3 experienced social isolation, and 1 in 3 faced physical violence.

3

7 out of 10 respondents endured these experiences on a regular basis.

4

Classmates or other students are the perpetrators of verbal harassment or physical violence, while 1 in 2 faced discrimination and harassment from teachers or school staff.

5

Only 3 teachers actively intervened to stop the violence.

6

1 out of 3 did not seek any support.

7

The vast majority reported constantly struggling with anxiety, depression, and stress, as well as experiencing feelings of anger and worthlessness.

8

3 out of 5 stated that their grades dropped because the environment of violence and fear made it impossible to focus on their studies, while others reported a reluctance to go to school and frequent absenteeism.

9

7 individuals were forced to transfer schools, and 3 had to put their education on hold for a period of time.

10

9 out of 10 believe that to create a safe educational environment, the primary necessity is to raise school staff’s awareness of bullying, violence, and inclusivity, while every 8 place high importance on establishing effective complaint and psychological support mechanisms.
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