Are LGBTIQ+ inmates treated differently in prison? : a case study

Abstract

Malta is considered one of the leading countries in LGBTIQ+ rights, however, How are these inmates treated in prison? This study will try to establish whether LGBTIQ+ inmates are treated differently in prison, by analysing a local case study. This case study consists of a civil case initiated by seven transgender inmates against the director of the local prison. Moreover, this study will compare any abuse with the Declaration of Human Rights and with the United Nations principles for the treatment of inmates. This study will also depict what would have been violations according to the local prison policy. This policy was developed as a result of this civil court case, and the abuse happened primarily as there was no adequate policy to safeguard these inmates. Moreover, one will also find a vast literature review, where various topics of concern are addressed. These topics are the main difficulties that LGBTIQ+ inmates face, while incarcerated. This study is being conducted so that a clear answer can be given (regarding the treatment of LGBTIQ+ inmates). Furthermore, this study is also being conducted to raise awareness regarding this topic, whilst also contributing to more local research in this field.