LGBTQ+ Intimacies in Southern Europe: Citizenship, Care and Choice

This edited volume explores partnering, parenting, and friendship issues from the perspective of lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, and queer people in Italy, Portugal, and Spain, offering a cross-national understanding of the relationship between everyday practices of intimacy and national legal, political, and policy contexts. It contributes to theoretical and policy debates about citizenship, care, choice, sexuality, welfare, health, and justice.

Format: Hardback
Length: 251 pages
Publication date: 01 November 2022
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

This Open Access book makes a compelling case that Southern European countries possess valuable, yet historically overlooked, insights into the realm of intimate citizenship. By delving into the fundamental sociological question of how change unfolds and how law and social policies adapt to or shape the practices and expectations of individuals in the intimate sphere, this edited volume explores a range of issues related to partnering, parenting, and friendship from the perspectives of lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, and queer individuals in Italy, Portugal, and Spain. Through its chapters, the book offers a cross-national understanding of the interplay between everyday practices of intimacy among LGBTQ people and national legal, political, and policy contexts in terms of recognizing otherwise "intimate strangers." This insightful contribution to the fields of citizenship, care, choice, sexuality, welfare, health, and justice will be of immense interest to scholars across Gender and Feminist Studies, Citizenship Studies, Law, Policy, and Politics.

Introduction:
Southern European countries have often been overlooked in discussions about intimate citizenship, despite their unique historical and cultural contexts. This book aims to rectify this oversight by exploring the valuable knowledge and experiences of LGBTQ individuals in these regions. By examining partnering, parenting, and friendship issues from the perspective of lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, and queer people, this edited volume seeks to contribute to a broader understanding of citizenship, care, choice, sexuality, welfare, health, and justice.

Chapter 1:
In the first chapter, the book provides an overview of the historical and cultural contexts of Southern Europe, highlighting the specific challenges and barriers faced by LGBTQ individuals. It explores the historical roots of discrimination and marginalization, as well as the ongoing struggles for LGBTQ rights and equality. The chapter also discusses the role of social movements and advocacy groups in shaping the legal and social landscape for LGBTQ individuals.

Chapter 2:
Chapter 2 delves into the experiences of partnering among LGBTQ individuals in Southern Europe. It explores the challenges and opportunities that arise from navigating the complex legal and social landscape, as well as the impact of discrimination and marginalization on romantic relationships. The chapter also examines the role of LGBTQ organizations and communities in providing support and resources to LGBTQ couples.

Chapter 3:
Chapter 3 examines parenting issues faced by LGBTQ individuals in Southern Europe. It explores the legal and social challenges that arise from raising children in a society that often lacks acceptance and understanding. The chapter also discusses the role of LGBTQ families in creating supportive and nurturing environments for their children.

Chapter 4:
Chapter 4 explores friendship issues among LGBTQ individuals in Southern Europe. It examines the challenges and opportunities that arise from forming and maintaining meaningful connections in a society that often marginalizes and stigmatizes LGBTQ individuals. The chapter also discusses the role of LGBTQ organizations and communities in fostering a sense of belonging and support among LGBTQ friends.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, this book argues that Southern European countries offer valuable insights into the realm of intimate citizenship. By examining the experiences of LGBTQ individuals in these regions, it sheds light on the challenges and opportunities that arise from navigating the complex legal and social landscape. The book contributes to ongoing theoretical and policy debates about citizenship, care, choice, sexuality, welfare, health, and justice, and has the potential to inform and improve the lives of LGBTQ individuals across the globe.

Weight: 478g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031135071
Edition number: 1st ed. 2023