Conflict Duration and LGBT Vulnerability : A Comparison of Azerbaijan, Tajikistan, and Ukraine

Abstract: The interest in studying the effects of armed conflict and LGBTs have increased significantly in the last decade. Mainly due to the international recognition and increased reporting of violations against said group. Moreover, previous studies have mainly been within-case studies focusing on the state or rebel groups as the main perpetrators. This paper moves beyond these and explore why LGBTs are targeted to different extents across conflicts. Thus, the paper asks the following research question: "Why is the LGBT community more vulnerable in some armed conflicts than in others?". The paper argues that armed conflict duration fuels militarisation, which increases honour ideology over time. The process results in the polarisation of masculine and feminine ideals. Finally, as LGBTs inherently challenge the gender system, they are targeted by both civilians and the state. Hence, the hypothesis is, “The longer an armed conflict continues, the more vulnerable the LGBT community becomes.”. The paper uses structured focused comparison and data from 63 reports to conduct three within-case analyses and a cross-case comparison to answer the above question. The results and analyses indicate preliminary support for the hypothesis.