Statement from Belong To re Recorded Increases in Hate Crimes

Belong To, the national organisation supporting LGBTQ+ youth in Ireland, is deeply concerned, but sadly not surprised, at the reported 29% increase in hate crimes and hate-related incidents in Ireland. The figures show that targeting on the basis of sexual orientation was the second-highest recorded form of hate crimes and hate-related incidents.

Our recent research reveals that 87% of LGBTQ+ young people have seen or experienced anti-LGBTQ+ harassment online. We have increasingly seen this pattern of online hate translate to real-world violence against Ireland’s LGBTQ+ community. The young people we support through our youth groups and frontline service have told us that they are fearful of being visibly LGBTQ+, and have asked for self-defence workshops.

To address this spike in violence, the Criminal Justice (Incitement to Violence or Hatred and Hate Offences) Bill must be enacted as a matter of urgency, accompanied by comprehensive actions to tackle the root causes of hate.

More News

Statement from Belong To in response to Prime Time

15 December 2023

For over 20 years, Belong To – LGBTQ+ Youth Ireland has supported trans young people and their families Central to our work is ...

Celebrity hairdresser Andrew Fitzsimons talks about the importance of LGBTQ+ allies during Stand Up Awareness Week.

6 November 2023

Stand Up Awareness Week, Ireland’s largest LGBTQ+ anti-bullying campaign, takes place from November 6-10, 2023 Celebrity hairdresser ...

Why we decided to leave Twitter/X

26 October 2023

Our vision is a society where LGBTQ+ young people are equal, safe and thriving This includes both offline and online spaces At Belong ...

Six hundred young people march in Dublin Pride parade with LGBTQ+ youth organisation Belong To

28 June 2025

Over 600 LGBTQ+ young people from across Ireland today marched in the Dublin Pride parade through Dublin City ...

Belong To LGBTQ+ Summer Project 2025

12 June 2025

Join other LGBTQ+ young people from 14-23 years old this summer for a series of free events and activities Throughout July and August, ...

Call for LGBTQ+ young people to share their story for an international book and exhibition

5 June 2025

Do you have a story to share about your experience as an LGBTQ+ young person Empowering Voices: LGBTQ+ Youth Untold Stories ...