The Emergence and Evolution of Lesbian and Gay Police Associations in Europe

Abstract

For nearly 30 years, LGBT police associations have been working within police agencies to create better working conditions for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) officers and staff as well as to improve relations between the agencies and LGBT communities.  The exploratory research examines the formation, structure, and impact of these associations on police agencies throughout Europe. Based on focus group and survey data from eight lesbian and gay police associations in Europe, this research highlights unique and common elements of their evolution and articulates a path forward to stay relevant in ever-changing political and social environments. Based on the data gathered, there appear to be opportunities to expand the efforts of these associations to include more visibility and open interactions with local LGBT communities. Through collective action and support via the European LGBT police association, current lesbian and gay police associations could be utilized to realize and expand LGBT police associations in other parts of Europe and beyond.