Reaching MSM and other LGBT people across the Federation

Despite increasing acceptance of sexual diversity, lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people around the world continue to experience social exclusion, prejudice, and violence as a result of discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. Today, May 17th, marks the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia - the anniversary of the World Health Organization's decision to remove homosexuality from its list of mental disorders in 1990.

The fear or dislike of homosexuality and differing gender identities in others or oneself and the assumption that heterosexual relationships are the norm create stigma and discrimination in society. This societal homophobia is deepened in countries where laws exist that criminalize same-sex relationships. In 2011, 76 countries around the world still consider homosexuality illegal.

Homophobia and transphobia have a profound impact on many aspects of the lives of LGBT people, including sexual and reproductive health (SRH). Many LGBT people find it difficult to openly access the SRH and other health services they need due to fear of being identified as being LGBT or due to the real or perceived negative attitudes of the service staff. Across the Federation, there are many outstanding examples of IPPF Member Associations reaching out to men who have sex with men (MSM) and other LGBT people in an effort to more effectively meet their SRH and HIV needs.

Cameroon

The Cameroon National Assocation for Family Welfare (CAMNAFAW) is providing stigma-free SRH and HIV services for the LGBT community in a country where homosexuality is punishable by law. In recent years, stigma and discrimination has been fuelled by homophobic reporting in the local media to publicly denounce homosexuality, resulting in the persecution of many homosexuals. To overcome this and to reduce the vulnerability faced, CAMNAFAW initiated a project to build trust and provide safe spaces where LGBT individuals could receive non-judgemental counselling, support and sexual health information. CAMNAFAW is one of the few voices in Cameroon championing the rights of sexual minorities, and produced a film showcasing the project.

Macedonia

The Health Education and Research Association (HERA) developed a national report card on the current situation of HIV prevention among MSM in collaboration with Equality for Gay and Lesbians (EGAL), a national LGBT organization. The report card was developed through a review of SRHR and HIV policies and programmes; interviews with various stakeholders; and community focus groups with MSM. Most importantly, this report card is being utilized as an advocacy tool providing recommendations for future actions to enhance HIV prevention for MSM. Although sex between men is not illegal in Macedonia, there is no specific legislation to protect MSM from discrimination; therefore a main recommendation was to include sexual orientation as a non-discrimination clause in the law.

Peru
Instituto Peruano de Paternidad Responsible (INPPARES) has created a safe environment in its clinics to cater for the needs of MSM and other LGBT people, especially those who are young. Young people continue to have limited access to sexual health services in Peru. With an emphasis on freedom of expression on issues of sexual diversity, young LGBT individuals are equipped with the confidence and skills to express their views more openly, to respond to intolerant and hurtful comments, and to be more assertive when communicating with their families and with acquaintances. INPPARES also works to raise institutional and political awareness of sexual diversity, which has had a significant impact internally on staff awareness and openness. This is an important achievement in a country where conservatism prevails.

China

The China Family Planning Association (CFPA) is promoting sexual health among MSM in three cities of Gansu Province, northwest China. Although sex between men is not illegal in China, many MSM keep their sexuality hidden due to the stigma they might otherwise face, making it particularly challenging to reach them with information and support. One of the primary components of this project is peer educator recruitment, training and outreach. Peer educators conduct outreach in bars, shower centres, and other venues frequented by MSM to disseminate condoms, lubricant, HIV and sexual health information, and health service referral cards. The project supports MSM in making informed decisions with an emphasis on personal choice.

India

The Family Planning Association of India (FPA India) has increased access to a combination of HIV prevention and SRH services for MSM in a number of clinics. Clinic staff received sensitization training on sexuality issues, and the SRH needs of MSM. A male drop-in centre was established to provide a safe space for MSM to receive information on various issues. Better known for their work in family planning and maternal and child health, MSM were initially hesitant to enter such centres. However, in partnership with local MSM organizations, the clinics are now known within the community as a stigma-free service. The clinics are also another option for men who do not feel comfortable utilizing MSM-specific services and provide the opportunity to bring their sexual partners, including female partners.

Syria

The Syrian Family Planning Association (SFPA) is providing youth-friendly HIV and SRH services in established youth centres throughout the country. Due to the high level of stigma and discrimination in the country, this project does not directly target MSM, but aims to provide an environment accepting of all young people. This has enabled some young men to feel confident and free to discuss issues related to their sexual orientation with the centre’s educators and counsellors. In an effort to attract other young MSM, these young people were encouraged to attend a peer education training workshop and to bring along their friends to the centre. In a society that treats homosexuals as criminals, this is an important first step to build confidence with this marginalized group.

For more information on the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia: http://www.dayagainsthomophobia.org/