The publication, Situation of LGBT persons in Poland. 2010 and 2011 Report is a study of vital importance referring to the lives, experiences and needs of the minority to which Poles still find it difficult to get used to. It is based on solid empirical research of over 11,000 LGB persons. The analysis of the survey published in the first part of the report gives, for the first time in history, access to such spheres of life as employment, school and family life, state of health, experiences of violence and discrimination and advocated values. The report reveals some peculiar phenomena for that social group related to migration, to coming out as LGBT, to parenthood and mental state. This study allows the refutation or verification of numerous myths pertaining to gays and lesbians. The second part of the publication consists of comments and analyses prepared by practitioners. The publication will be useful for both people who deal with LGBT and discrimination issues scientifically, as well as for representatives of the institutions implementing – or which are supposed to implement – the equality policy in Poland. It constitutes not only a reliable source of knowledge but also contains substantively justified recommendations pertaining to essential changes in the legal system and social practice.

Prof. Wiktor Osiatyński