Delfi.lt reports that Lithuanians perceive discrimination against people with mental disabilities, the elderly, people with physical disabilities and LGBT individuals as the most widespread in the society. These results have been indicated by a public opinion survey, booked by the Human Rights Monitoring Institute (HRMI).

The results indicate that perception levels on discrimination against ethnic minorities (3.62 in 10-point-scale this year in comparison to 3.45 in 2010) and against LGBT individuals (4.77 points in 10-points-scale this year in comparison to 4.58 in 2010) have slightly increased. However, the respondents believe that the most widespread discrimination in the country is directed against people with mental disabilities (5.91 points) and the elderly (5.56 points).

The program coordinator in the HRMI Dovilė Šakalienė notes that perception level on discrimination against LGBT individuals is relatively low. It has to be noted that respondents in the survey were asked, whether a public announcement of their child’s sexual orientation on the radio would constitute a violation of the parent’s right to privacy (8.38 points). “There is an apparent contradiction in the public perceptions. Despite the fact that respondents are reluctant in admitting that LGBT individuals are being discriminated again, public outing is considered to be detrimental both for a child and a family,” – says Ms. Šakalienė.

The survey also indicated that 48% respondents consider that they do not receive sufficient information about human rights and that only 18% believe that their rights have been ever infringed upon. Lithuanians defend their rights by complaining to the police (46%), while only 22% would consider the possibility of lodging a complaint before national courts.

The Eurobarometer survey on discrimination in the EU 2012 has indicated that 42% Lithuanians perceive discrimination on grounds of sexual discrimination as totally widespread.