A study by the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA) has found that Italy ranks among the most discriminatory countries in Europe against LGBT people.

The survey found that 54% said they suffered discrimination, putting the country ahead of only Lithuania, Croatioa, Poland, and Cyprus.

It also found that only 8% are open about their sexual orientation.

ANSA reports the country also performed poorly with regards to the use of offensive language by politicians, as well as a lack of legislation inclusive of gay rights.

Italian Reforms Undersecretary Ivan Scalfarotto said: “The EU has a clear responsibility to promote equality, respect and tolerance for everyone, including LGBT people.

“With this important conference the Italian Presidency wants to show its commitment to working with our EU partners to combat LGBT discrimination and build a more inclusive society for all.”

FRA Director Morten Kjaerum said: “Too often, too many LGBT people face discrimination and hostility for simply being themselves.”

“The tide is changing and there has been positive momentum in many Member States. We must build on this.

“As the new European Parliament and Commission take office, the time is now ripe to put equality and non-discrimination of LGBT people back on the EU’s agenda.”

Italy is home to a large Catholic population, and lags behind other European countries on LGBT rights, with gay couples having no legal recognition, rights to adopt, and limited protection from discrimination.

Earlier this month, Italy’s Interior Minister blocked the recognition of same-sex marriages, saying they cannot be recognised by the country

Last month a lesbian couple in Italy has became the first to be allowed to adopt a child, after a court ruled they could not be stopped from doing so.

In July, an Italian Mayor launched a proposal to ban all public gay kissing in his town.