A newly released youth study from the Economic & Social Research Institute (ESRI) reported that 76% of people aged 17 experienced some type of discrimination at least multiple times per year. This figure increases for LGBTQ+ young people and other minority groups.

Findings from the Growing Up in Ireland study indicated heavy amounts of discrimination for young people, showing that the 76% figure falls to 66% with surveyees aged 25. The study used the Everyday Discrimination Scale (EDS), a nine-question survey to assess the level of discrimination one faces daily. 

In the surveyed group aged 17, participants felt that, beyond age, the other main forms of discrimination were appearance-based at 54% and gender at 40%. However, at 25, the most cited reason for perceived discrimination was gender, with 41% of respondents citing it as their main one. 

The study further highlights that in both age groups, LGBTQ+ people experience higher levels of discrimination. This fact remains true for people of ethnic minority backgrounds, as well as for people with disabilities.  

The report also found that those who experienced discrimination in the aged-25 cohort also have lower scores in self-esteem and life satisfaction.

Eva Slevin, co-author of the youth study, stated: “Better resourcing for youth mental health and wellbeing services, and strong policy to prevent discrimination in education, work, online and in other settings is of vital importance.”

Commenting on the findings of the research, Minister for Children, Disability and Equality, Norma Foley, stated: “This study highlights that many young people feel singled out or unfairly treated, particularly those with disabilities, those who identify as LGBTIQ+ and those from minority ethnic backgrounds. This is a worrying finding, and one that this Government is working to change.”

It is important to highlight that the study did not include trans young participants. According to a report released in 2022, Ireland has the worst trans healthcare in the EU, with many trans people experiencing waiting lists for gender-affirming care that can go up to 10 years, tacking a toll on their mental health.

In a 2024 CSO report, trans respondents reported over three times as much workplace discrimination (at 22%) as their cisgendered counterparts (at 7%). In the same report, 46% of transgender people stated they have experienced some form of discrimination in the past 2 years.

If you are looking to reach out to someone for  support or advice or just to talk, there are numerous services available for LGBTQ+ people, listed below, and many offer instant messaging support.
Samaritans
SpunOut.ie 
LGBT Helplines