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Homosexuality

The Netherlands is known as one of the most gay-tolerant countries in the world. Nonetheless, in the Netherlands, too, homosexuality is still often regarded as 'less normal', and is not universally accepted throughout Dutch society. As a result, lesbians, gays, bisexuals and transgenders, or LGBTs for short, experience more psychosocial problems than heterosexuals.

Degree of acceptance

SCP periodically surveys the degree of acceptance of LGBTs in the Netherlands. What are the attitudes of the Dutch population? Which groups are less tolerant? Are there any trends in the degree of acceptance of homosexuality? How does the Netherlands compare with other countries? And what are the experiences of LGBTs themselves?

Health, climate in education and local policy

Other research institutes in the Netherlands are also concerned with homosexuality or related themes, and occasionally collaborate on publications with SCP. Schorer compiles the Schorer Monitor annually, focusing on gay men. Movisie studies gay and lesbian emancipation policy at local level. EduDivers researches sexual diversity in education. Rutgers Nisso Groep studies sexuality and health in general. UvA and Maastricht University carry out regular social scientific research on homosexuality.

Research at SCP

The Emancipation, Youth & Family research group monitors the acceptance of homosexuality in the Netherlands. More information on current projects and recent publications may be found on the research group page.

More information?

  • Ministry of Education, Culture and Science: information on national policy to promote social acceptance of LGBTs.
  • Schorer: Netherlands Institute for Homosexuality, Health and Well-being.
  • Movisie (in Dutch): information, advice and support for public authorities and organisations (local and regional) on improving the position of lesbians, gays, bisexuals and transgenders.
  • EduDivers: knowledge centre for education and sexual diversity.
  • Stichting Ondersteboven (in Dutch) carries out research on the experiences of lesbians and bisexual women and strives for greater visibility.