Although the acceptance of homosexuality has increased in Austria in recent decades, homosexual people continue to face challenges such as stigmatization, unequal treatment, hostility and internal psychological conflicts. This literature review examines the form in which problems manifest themselves and what effects they can have and how social work as a human rights profession can provide support. The results of the research suggest that deeply rooted heteronormative norms and values in society can form the basis for exclusion, discrimination and experiences of violence. Public spaces, educational institutions and workplaces as well as the family environment were identified as places of potentially negative experiences. Due to its mission, social work is therefore called upon to promote social change and increase its commitment to social justice.