Harassment of transgender persons Archives

Thailand’s Step Towards Marriage Equality: A Historic Move in Parliament

In a significant step forward for LGBTQ+ rights in Asia, Thailand’s Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin announced on Tuesday that the cabinet has approved a draft law on marriage equality. This landmark bill is scheduled to be presented to the parliament in its session commencing December.

Thailand’s LGBTQ+ Community: Visible but Unequal

Despite having one of the most open and visible LGBTQ+ communities in Asia, Thailand’s legal framework and traditional institutions have often lagged in reflecting the evolving social attitudes. As a result, LGBT individuals and same-sex couples continue to face discrimination under existing Thai laws.

Potential Milestone in Asian LGBTQ+ Rights

Should the parliament approve the draft law and it subsequently receives royal assent, Thailand will join the ranks of Taiwan and Nepal as the third jurisdiction in Asia to legally recognize same-sex marriage. This move could mark a significant milestone in LGBTQ+ rights in the region.

Historical Context and Legislative Journey

Last year, the Thai parliament deliberated over four proposed laws concerning the LGBTQ+ community, including provisions for civil unions and marriage equality. However, the session concluded without reaching a definitive vote on these critical issues.

Political Parties and Election Promises

In the lead-up to the May elections this year, both the ruling Pheu Thai party and its political rivals included support for marriage equality in their campaign promises. This political backing reflects a growing recognition of LGBTQ+ rights as a pertinent issue in Thai politics.

The Future of LGBTQ+ Rights in Thailand

Further emphasizing Thailand’s commitment to promoting LGBTQ+ rights, Prime Minister Srettha has expressed his desire for Bangkok to host the World Pride events in 2028. This ambition aligns with the country’s broader efforts to become a more inclusive society.

The Road Ahead

The upcoming parliamentary session and the decision on the marriage equality bill will be closely watched, both within Thailand and internationally. The approval of this legislation could set a precedent for other Asian countries and significantly advance LGBTQ+ rights in the region.

In conclusion, Thailand’s move to bring the marriage equality bill to parliament signifies a pivotal moment in the country’s journey towards greater equality and acceptance for the LGBTQ+ community. This step, coupled with the potential hosting of World Pride, positions Thailand as a progressive leader in LGBTQ+ rights in Asia.

©equalityvoices.org

Legislation

Coldplay’s Concert in Malaysia Faces Opposition But Goes Ahead

Upcoming Performance – Despite facing resistance from conservative Muslim groups in Malaysia, Coldplay is set to perform in Kuala Lumpur. The band’s stance on various social issues, including their support for Palestine and the LGBTQ+ community, has stirred controversy in the region.

Controversial “Kill Switch” Measure

In light of the backlash following a same-sex kiss at a recent concert in Kuala Lumpur by the 1975, Malaysian authorities have introduced a measure that allows for the immediate cessation of a concert in case of any ‘unwanted incident.’ This ‘kill switch’ to cut power is a response to cultural sensitivities and has been discussed as a possible measure for Coldplay’s concert.

Political Support for the Band

Despite these tensions, Coldplay has found an unexpected ally in Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. Citing the band’s support for the Palestinian cause, Ibrahim questioned the need to stop a group advocating such a cause from performing in Malaysia, especially in the context of the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

Chris Martin’s Stand Against Oppression

Chris Martin, Coldplay’s lead singer, has been vocal about the band’s stance against oppression and violence, expressing support for various global causes. Their music and public statements have often touched on sensitive political and social issues, including their support for the Palestinian cause and collaborations with artists from conflict zones.

Opposition from Conservative Groups

The concert has faced opposition from conservative Muslim factions in Malaysia, who have criticized Coldplay for promoting what they view as a culture of hedonism and perversion, especially due to the band’s support for the LGBTQ+ community. This opposition reflects broader cultural and religious tensions within the country.

Calls for Cultural Sensitivity

As the concert approaches, both the police and concert promoter Live Nation Malaysia have urged attendees to respect local customs and avoid provocative behavior. This call for cultural sensitivity highlights the delicate balance between artistic expression and respecting local cultural norms.

Previous Controversy in Indonesia

Coldplay’s recent concert in Indonesia also faced backlash from conservative groups, leading to demonstrations outside their performance venue in Jakarta. The protests centered around the band’s support for LGBTQ+ rights, which clashes with the predominant religious beliefs in the country.

Legal Fallout from Past Concert

The controversy follows a similar pattern to the incident involving the 1975, whose Kuala Lumpur performance was abruptly canceled following a same-sex kiss on stage, leading to legal action against the band.

Coldplay’s Ongoing Tour and Environmental Commitment

Amid these controversies, Coldplay continues their Music of the Spheres tour, which began in March 2022. The tour is noteworthy for its commitment to reducing carbon emissions and has been financially successful. Fans are also speculating about the band’s possible appearance at the 2024 Glastonbury festival, given a gap in their tour schedule.

This situation underscores the complexities artists face when performing in culturally diverse and politically sensitive environments, balancing their artistic integrity with respect for local norms and values.

©equalityvoices.org

News

The Harrowing Reality of Being Gay in Cameroon

In Cameroon, being openly gay or suspected of homosexual activities can lead to dire consequences. The country’s strict anti-LGBT laws and societal norms create an environment where violence and discrimination against LGBT individuals are not only common but often go unpunished.

Threats of “Corrective Rape”

Among the most chilling threats faced by LGBT individuals in Cameroon is “corrective rape” — a heinous act aimed at ‘changing’ a person’s sexual orientation. This inhumane practice is often used as a threat to instill fear and enforce conformity to heterosexual norms.

Legal and Social Stigma

In Cameroon, homosexual acts are illegal and can lead to imprisonment. This legal framework, combined with prevailing social attitudes, creates a culture where being identified as gay can lead to ostracism, harassment, and even violence. LGBT individuals often live in secrecy, fearing exposure and the severe repercussions that might follow.

Personal Accounts of Fear and Resilience

Many LGBT Cameroonians have shared harrowing stories of threats, violence, and discrimination. Their tales paint a bleak picture of a society deeply entrenched in homophobia, where even the threat of corrective rape is used to enforce rigid gender and sexual norms.

Government’s Stance and International Condemnation

The Cameroonian government’s stance on LGBT rights has been consistently harsh, with little to no effort made to protect this marginalized community. This approach has drawn international condemnation from human rights organizations, yet the situation on the ground remains largely unchanged.

Seeking Refuge and Solidarity

Some LGBT individuals in Cameroon seek refuge in more tolerant countries, while others find solace in secretive communities within Cameroon. These groups often operate underground, providing support and a semblance of safety in a country where their existence is constantly under threat.

The Road Ahead

Advocates for LGBT rights in Cameroon and international human rights organizations continue to call for change. They urge the Cameroonian government to repeal anti-LGBT laws and to protect all citizens, regardless of their sexual orientation. The struggle for acceptance and safety for LGBT individuals in Cameroon is an ongoing battle, fraught with danger but fueled by resilience and hope for a more inclusive future.

The situation in Cameroon highlights the critical need for global awareness and intervention to protect the rights and lives of LGBT individuals. As the world progresses towards greater acceptance and understanding of diverse sexual orientations and gender identities, the plight of those in less tolerant societies must not be forgotten.

©equalityvoices.org

Community

Dame Kelly Holmes Opens Up About Her Journey and Struggles with Sexuality

Olympic champion Dame Kelly Holmes has recently shared her experiences of growing up in Kent, a time when being gay was heavily stigmatized. Raised near Tonbridge, Holmes, who came out as gay last year, discussed the challenges she faced while concealing her sexuality for over three decades. Her revelations throw light on the mental health struggles faced by many who could not openly express their sexuality.

A Life in Secrecy

Holmes, who had a distinguished career as a gold medal-winning athlete, spent 34 years hiding her true identity, a decision influenced by the societal attitudes of her youth. In her conversation with BBC Radio Surrey, she emphasized how the taboo and stigma associated with being gay caused significant mental health trauma for many, including herself.

Military Career and Legal Challenges

Her journey was further complicated by her initial career in the army. Until 2000, homosexuality was illegal in the military, presenting an additional challenge for Holmes during her service. Despite these obstacles, she transitioned to a full-time athletic career in 1997.

Triumph and Transition

Holmes’ athletic career was marked by outstanding achievements, including winning two gold medals at the 2004 Athens Olympics. She retired from professional athletics in 2006 and since then has been involved in motivational speaking. Her journey from an athlete to a public figure has been inspirational for many.

Embracing Inclusion and Having a Voice

Today, Holmes is a vocal advocate for inclusivity and LGBTQ+ rights. She acknowledges the progress made in discussions about inclusion and admires the younger generation for living their truth openly. Proud of the voice she now has, Holmes is committed to furthering conversations about LGBTQ+ issues and is unafraid of the challenges that may come with it.

Holmes’ story is not just one of athletic prowess but also of personal resilience and the courage to embrace one’s identity in the face of societal challenges. Her openness about her struggles and triumphs serves as an inspiration and a call for greater acceptance and understanding in society.

©equalityvoices.org

News

Russia Moves to Outlaw LGBTQ ‘Movement’ as Extremist

In what is being seen as the most severe measure in its ongoing clampdown on gay rights, the Russian government has taken a significant and alarming step. The Justice Ministry filed a lawsuit with the nation’s Supreme Court to declare the LGBTQ “international public movement” as extremist. This action marks a dramatic intensification in the decadelong assault on LGBTQ rights under President Vladimir Putin’s regime, which has increasingly leaned towards conservative ideologies.

Details of the Lawsuit and Its Implications

The ministry, through an online statement, disclosed that it had identified elements of extremism in the activities of the LGBTQ movement within Russia, accusing it of inciting social and religious discord. A hearing by the Supreme Court is scheduled for Nov. 30 to consider this lawsuit. The ramifications of this label for LGBTQ individuals in Russia, if approved, remain unclear but could lead to severe restrictions and penalties.

A Decade of Diminishing LGBTQ Rights

This lawsuit is the latest in a series of actions against LGBTQ rights in Russia. The crackdown began about ten years ago, with the adoption of the “gay propaganda” law in 2013, which prohibited any noncritical public depiction of “nontraditional sexual relations” among minors. In 2020, constitutional reforms not only extended Putin’s rule but also banned same-sex marriages.

Intensified Rhetoric Amidst Ukraine Conflict

The invasion of Ukraine in 2022 saw a heightened emphasis on protecting “traditional values” from what the Kremlin described as the West’s corrupting influence. This stance was viewed by rights advocates as a tactic to justify military actions in Ukraine. The same year, Russia passed a law banning the propaganda of “nontraditional sexual relations” among adults, effectively criminalizing any public support for LGBTQ individuals.

Additional Legal Constraints and Presidential Viewpoints

In 2022, Russia enacted further legislation that imposed strict prohibitions on gender transition procedures and related medical care for transgender people. This law also forbade altering one’s gender identity in any official documents or public records. Additionally, the Russian Family Code was revised to classify gender transition as a valid reason for dissolving a marriage and to prevent individuals who have transitioned from becoming foster or adoptive parents. President Vladimir Putin voiced his disapproval of what he described as “perversions” infiltrating educational settings and raised concerns about the shift away from traditional family roles towards more neutral descriptions.

These legal actions, alongside the recent legal attempt to classify the LGBTQ movement as extremist, signify an escalating antagonism against the LGBTQ community within Russia. This trend raises significant human rights concerns regarding the well-being and safety of LGBTQ individuals in the nation. International observers and human rights groups are vigilantly tracking these ongoing developments.

©equalityvoices.org

Legislation

Increasing Concerns Over LGBTQ+ Safety on London Public Transport

A recent survey conducted by London TravelWatch has brought to light a disturbing reality for LGBTQ+ individuals using public transport in London. The study, involving 600 participants, revealed that one in five LGBTQ+ people experienced abuse on public transport over the past year. This alarming statistic underscores the persistent threat of violence and harassment faced by this community.

Bystander Apathy Adds to the Trauma

The survey further highlighted a concerning trend of bystander inaction. Ash Morgan, a 28-year-old Londoner, shared a harrowing experience of being physically assaulted on a train at Clapham South. The indifference of fellow passengers, who neither offered help nor showed compassion, exacerbated his trauma. Morgan’s experience reflects a broader pattern of bystander apathy that adds to the distress of victims.

Forced Changes in Behavior and Appearance

A staggering four out of five respondents admitted to altering their behavior or appearance to blend in and avoid conflict. Ash Morgan himself confessed to avoiding bright clothes and refraining from wearing pronoun pins on public transport, as a precaution against potential harassment.

Reporting Incidents: A Path Filled with Disappointment

The reluctance of victims to report incidents is another significant issue. Despite Ash Morgan’s effort to report his assault, including providing the carriage number and time, he was discouraged from doing so and informed that an investigation was unlikely. This experience is not isolated, as many LGBTQ+ people express little confidence in the police, leading to underreporting of incidents.

A Call for Greater Safety and Inclusivity

Michael Roberts, CEO of London TravelWatch, expressed concern over the increasing perception of London as a less safe city, especially for the LGBTQ+ community. This sentiment challenges the notion of London as a tolerant and diverse global city.

Initiatives and Commitments to Counter Hate Crimes

In response to these concerns, Siwan Hayward, Director of Security, Policing, and Enforcement at Transport for London, emphasized their commitment to protecting all passengers from harm. Initiatives include campaigns against hate and abusive behavior and collaboration with LGBTQ+ groups to address these issues.

Similarly, Det Ch Supt Paul Furnell of the British Transport Police assured that preventing and tackling hate crime is a top priority. The force works closely with LGBTQ+ charities and employs visible patrols and dedicated operations, along with extensive CCTV coverage, to ensure safety and swift response to hate crimes.

The findings and responses highlight a critical need for more effective measures to ensure the safety and dignity of LGBTQ+ individuals in public spaces, reinforcing the call for a more inclusive and secure urban environment.

©equalityvoices.org

Community

Persistent Violence Against Trans and Gender-Diverse People Highlighted in TGEU Report as Trans Awareness Week Commences

As Trans Awareness Week kicks off, a new report from Transgender Europe (TGEU) sheds light on the ongoing and distressing pattern of violence targeting transgender and gender-diverse individuals. Despite advancements in transgender rights, the number of murders remains alarmingly high, with no indication of decline.

Global and Regional Overview

The report reveals that globally, over 320 trans and gender-diverse people have been reported murdered between October 2022 and September 2023. This figure is expected to exceed the total count of the previous year. In Europe, there have been 16 such murders, reflecting the global scope of this issue. This year marks the first time that Armenia, Belgium, and Slovakia have reported murders of transgender individuals.

Challenges in Accurate Reporting

TGEU suggests that these statistics likely fall short of the actual figures, as many trans and gender-diverse victims are not correctly identified in death reports. The higher reported numbers in Latin America and the Caribbean are attributed to more effective monitoring systems, hinting at a potentially larger hidden crisis in regions with less thorough reporting.

Work, Race, and Violence

Globally, nearly half of the murdered trans individuals, where occupation data is available, were engaged in sex work. This figure rises to 78% in Europe. Additionally, there’s been a 15% increase in racially motivated murders compared to the previous year, predominantly affecting Black trans women and transfeminine individuals.

Youth and Migrants at Risk

Most victims were below the age of 25. In Europe, nearly half of the murdered trans individuals were migrants or refugees, underlining their increased risk, especially in areas of conflict.

Multiple Layers of Discrimination

The report underscores that these murders stem from a complex mix of factors, including lack of adequate hate crime laws, insufficient access to health care, housing, and employment, and widespread institutional discrimination. The high number of trans women of color and trans sex workers, especially those who are migrants or refugees in Europe, highlights the overlap of misogyny, racism, xenophobia, and discrimination against sex workers.

Ubiquitous Threat

The study indicates that 28% of the murders occurred on the streets, and 26% in the victims’ own homes, pointing to the ubiquitous risks faced by trans and gender-diverse individuals in both public and private settings.

Urgent Need for Awareness and Measures

TGEU stresses that these figures represent just a portion of the actual scenario, with many incidents going unreported or unnoticed. This grave reality underscores the need for heightened global awareness and proactive steps to tackle the deep-rooted issues contributing to such extensive violence against the transgender community.

News

Navigating the Varied Landscape of Trans Healthcare for Minors in the EU

The access to gender-affirming healthcare for transgender, intersex, and non-binary minors varies significantly across the European Union. While some countries offer relatively straightforward pathways, others pose substantial barriers, creating a disparate landscape for young trans individuals seeking care.

France: A Case of Conditional Accessibility

In France, minors can access gender-affirming treatments like puberty blockers and hormone replacement therapy (HRT). However, the process often involves lengthy psychological assessments, creating potential delays. Alex’s story, a young French individual, illustrates a best-case scenario where familial support and age facilitated quicker access to treatment, but many others face longer waits.

Spain’s Progressive Stance

Spain recently enacted legislation to simplify the process for individuals over 16 to legally change their gender markers, marking a significant step forward for trans rights. This law has positioned Spain as one of the best places in Europe for trans healthcare, according to Transgender Europe (TGEU).

Ireland’s Contradictory Situation

Ireland presents a stark contrast, where despite legal provisions for gender self-declaration, practical access to trans healthcare is severely limited. Young people face a backlog of up to seven years in the healthcare system, effectively delaying access to gender-affirming care until adulthood.

The Swedish and Finnish Approaches

Sweden and Finland have taken different paths, with Sweden recently restricting hormone therapy for minors under 18 and Finland eliminating the sterilization requirement for adults changing their gender markers.

The Rising Tide of Violence and Hate Speech

The past year has seen an alarming increase in violence against the LGBTQ+ community in Europe, with several high-profile attacks and murders of trans individuals. This surge in violence accompanies a rise in hate speech against trans people across various European nations.

The Struggle for Recognition and Respect

The experiences of young trans individuals like Alex highlight the importance of societal recognition and respect for their identities. Access to hormones is crucial, but societal acceptance and familial support play a pivotal role in their well-being.

Conclusion: A Diverse European Landscape

The situation across the EU underscores the diversity of approaches to trans healthcare, influenced by political, social, and cultural factors. While some countries are making significant strides toward inclusive and accessible healthcare for trans minors, others lag behind, creating a complex and often challenging environment for these young individuals to navigate.

Community

Amazon Prime Faces Legal Action Over Homophobic Chants in PSG Match Broadcast

A French LGBTQ+ rights organization has launched a legal challenge against Amazon Prime. This follows the streaming platform’s broadcast of a replay featuring a football game between Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and Marseille, where homophobic chants were distinctly heard. The match in question, which occurred on September 24, saw PSG fans using homophobic slurs aimed at their opponents, a situation reported by an AFP journalist at PSG’s Parc des Princes stadium.

PSG Players and Club Sanctions

The incident led to repercussions for PSG, with four of its players, including Randal Kolo Muani and Ousmane Dembele, receiving suspended one-match bans for participating in the chants. These players later issued apologies for their conduct, acknowledging they got “carried away” and promising to uphold their responsibility to set a positive example. Additionally, PSG faced penalties, including the closing of the Auteuil stand in their stadium for one game.

Broadcaster Liability and Amazon’s Response

The LGBT Families group’s lawyer emphasized that while live broadcasts of offensive content might not incur liability, replays do. The complaint against Amazon Prime alleges that the replay of the game included distinct homophobic chants from the fans. Amazon Prime, in response, stated that the match was no longer available on its platform when the complaint was made public and condemned all forms of discrimination, including homophobia.

Wider Context: Homophobia in French Sport

The lawsuit against Amazon Prime reflects a larger issue of homophobia within French sports. A survey conducted by the Federation Sportive LGBT+ association found that almost 50% of participants observed homophobic or transphobic actions in sports environments. Additionally, this situation follows an event where several Ligue 1 players chose not to wear rainbow-themed symbols as part of an anti-homophobia initiative, although the majority of players endorsed this effort.

Campaign Against Homophobia in Football

The Rouge Direct (Straight Red Card) group, an organization fighting against homophobia in sports, has supported the complaint against Amazon Prime. They accused the streaming service of reneging on a previous commitment to not broadcast homophobic chants during replays. This legal case against Amazon Prime forms part of a larger effort to combat the normalization of homophobia in football and sports at large.

In summary, Amazon Prime’s decision to replay a football match featuring homophobic chants has led to legal repercussions and brought into focus the ongoing issue of homophobia in sports, particularly in French football. This case underscores the need for broadcasters and sports organizations to actively address and prevent discriminatory behavior.

News

Russia Passes Law Banning Gender Reassignment

In a sweeping move by Russia’s lower house of parliament, gender reassignment surgeries and the legal recognition of gender changes have been outlawed. The State Duma announced the ban after a unanimous vote by political parties, marking the bill’s final reading.

Protecting ‘Citizens and Children’

Chairman Vyacheslav Volodin justified the decision as a means to safeguard Russian society, explicitly criticizing the United States for what he perceives as a decline due to the acceptance of gender reassignment surgeries. According to Volodin’s statement, the Duma’s ruling is aimed at preventing what he calls the “degeneration” observed elsewhere, which is deemed unfit for Russia.

Contents of the New Legislation

The proposed legislation is stringent in its scope, prohibiting all medical interventions intended for sex changes and any state registration of gender changes that do not involve an operation. Exceptions are made only for surgeries correcting congenital anomalies in children. Moreover, the law introduces restrictions affecting transgender individuals’ marital and parental rights, including a ban on adoption or becoming foster parents.

Widening the Crackdown on LGBTQ Rights

This bill is the latest in a series of legislative actions targeting the LGBTQ community under President Vladimir Putin’s administration. The Kremlin has positioned these attacks as a defense against a perceived moral decline in Western societies.

In the previous year, the enactment of the so-called “gay propaganda” law made any positive mention of LGBTQ relationships illegal. Since 2013, Russia has been on a legislative path against the promotion of “nontraditional sexual relations” to minors, a stance echoed in certain laws of EU member Hungary and various US states.

The International Response

As the bill moves to the upper house and awaits President Putin’s signature, international human rights groups and LGBTQ advocates are raising alarms about the deepening human rights crisis for transgender and LGBTQ individuals in Russia. The implications of this law, should it be enacted, are expected to further isolate the Russian LGBTQ community and escalate the already heightened concerns among human rights observers worldwide.

Legislation

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