Kirsten J. Tilleman, Subeh Chowdhury, Theunis F.P. Henning, LGBTQI+ public transport rider harassment experiences and anti-violence strategy recommendations, Journal of Transport & Health, Volume 46, 2026, 102233, ISSN 2214-1405.
LGBTQI+ public transport (PT) riders face elevated rates of violence based on gender, sexual orientation, and visible “queerness.” People who are transgender, non-binary, and have intersectional marginalised identities are especially at risk of violence.
The current study evaluates data from focus groups and interviews with 25 LGBTQI+ women (cisgender and transgender) and non-binary individuals. We adapted reflexive thematic analysis to a systems theory framework for deep engagement with the dataset and to evaluate interconnected elements of a dynamic and layered PT security environment for practical solutions.
Our analysis generated an overarching theme of a PT collective safety agreement that draws its safety/security strength from community relationships and partnerships. Three supporting themes reflect areas participants described as necessary for creating a PT environment where they can ride free from harassment, fear, and violence: behavioural expectations, inclusive communication, and PT authority responsibilities. Applied in a systems framework, we evaluated the overarching theme as a system that requires PT authorities to enforce consequences for unacceptable behaviour while providing safety/security support and resources, active allyship, and inclusive communications.
Attempts to meaningfully increase safety/security cannot be done with a limited scope and siloed approach. For safer and more secure PT networks, PT authorities should consider a systems-level approach that supports multiple interconnected elements with appropriately-sized physical, financial, and personnel resources. Committing to a PT collective safety agreement will not provide overnight results; but such a system can provide lasting results over time.