Homosexuality: A European Community Issue

Book excerpt: Homosexuality: A European Community Issue is a groundbreaking study of the situation of lesbians and gay men in the European Community and how this will be affected by the evolution of the EC into the European Union. It provides a cogent analysis of the social, legal and economic discrimination against homosexual men and women, their organisations and businesses. Twelve authors from different academic backgrounds investigate if, where, and how the European Community institutions are competent to combat discrimination against lesbians and gay men. The authors deal extensively with many policy areas in which the EC plays a prominent role, such as sex equality, free movement of persons, goods and services, employment and family policy. Homosexuality: A European Community Issue is the first comprehensive study into this rapidly developing area of policy making. This eminently readable volume will serve as an indispensable reference book for academics, activists and policy makers for many years to come. An index of relevant legislation, case-law and extensive cross-referencing guarantee it will be of great practical use to anyone interested in lesbian and gay rights in the European Community.