Trans and Non-Binary Identities, Gender Dysphoria, and Workplace Environments

Abstract Book of the 5th International Conference on LGBT studies

Year: 2026

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Trans and Non-Binary Identities, Gender Dysphoria, and Workplace Environments

Umberto Izzo

ABSTRACT:

The study examines the challenges and legal developments surrounding the inclusion and protection of transgender and non-binary individuals within cisnormative labor structures, with a comparative focus on Italy and Spain.
As a matter of fact, despite progress made in the areas of diversity and inclusion in the workplace, the specific needs related to health, safety, and well-being of trans and non-binary individuals remain insufficiently addressed, particularly in the Italian context.
Even the European Union has taken only timid steps toward the development of truly inclusive policies, and the recent LGBTIQ Equality Strategy 2026–2030, presented in October 2025, appears to sideline the specific challenges faced by the trans community. Therefore, starting from an analysis of the obstacles encountered by transgender and non-binary people in professional environments, this study offers a comparative examination of the legal frameworks in Italy and Spain. Considering the progress observed in the Spanish case, the study considers the relevance and feasibility of replicating that model within the Italian context.
The work concludes with a set of practical strategies aimed at building safer, more equitable, and inclusive professional spaces.

Keywords: Equality Policies; EU Law; Health At Work; Labour Law; LGBTQI+ Rights