The Homophobic War: The African Continent x The African LGBTQIA+ Community: What To Expect From The Future?

? We realize that it is not today that we are seeing news about African LGBTQIA+ communities being oppressed and decriminalized by their own countries.

INCREASED REPRESSION AGAINST THE LGBTQIA+ COMMUNITY TODAY:

?? In May 2023, Uganda introduced extremely restrictive legislation against LGBTQIA+ individuals, establishing penalties that include life imprisonment for homosexual acts and even the death penalty for repeat offenders. This drastic measure has generated international concern, especially as other countries are considering following the same path. Kenya, for example, is in the process of drafting a similar bill, while in Tanzania, some lawmakers have proposed imposing the death penalty on homosexuals, who already face an unconditional 20-year prison sentence.

“The situation is also alarming in other places, such as Senegal, where in 2022 there was an attempt to pass even more oppressive legislation against the QUEER community. This proposal, similar to the one recently adopted in Ghana, raises additional concerns as it could serve as a model for the West African region.” (source: rfi.fr).

All of these events reflect a worrying trend in many countries in Africa, a "homophobic legal war." Although some countries have made progress in decriminalizing homosexuality, such as Botswana (in 2021), Gabon (in 2020) and Angola (in 2019), there are still a significant number of nations on the continent - 31 out of 54 - that penalize homosexuality, with four of them impose the death penalty. South Africa remains an exception, as it has allowed same-sex marriage since 2006, being one of the first countries on the continent to do so, but homophobia is great and frightening there.

It is clear that practically the entire African continent is moving away from Human Rights, leaving a wave of prejudice to spread across the continent, but we must highlight how important the mission of countless African LGBTQIA+ activists is, their crucial role in changing and transforming these ignored realities and persecuted.

THE GROWING WAVE OF LGBTQIA+ REFUGEES IN REFUGE CAMPS IN AFRICA:

In refugee camps across Africa, there is a complex and often neglected reality: the situation of LGBTQIA+ refugees. These people, who have fled their home countries due to persecution and discrimination based on their sexual orientation or gender identity, face unique and urgent challenges. One of the most worrying issues is the lack of understanding and empathy from large humanitarian organizations. While these organizations provide basic assistance such as shelter and food, they often do not consider the specific needs of LGBTQIA+ refugees.

In refugee camps, LGBTQIA+ refugees face a range of challenges, including discrimination and violence from other refugees or even local authorities. This creates an environment of fear and insecurity, where many do not feel safe expressing their true identity.

?? Furthermore, the lack of access to mental health services and psychosocial support further worsens the situation. Many LGBTQIA+ refugees carry deep trauma due to experiences of violence and rejection in their home countries, and the lack of resources to deal with this trauma contributes to their vulnerability.

To address these issues, it is crucial that humanitarian organizations adopt more sensitive approaches to issues of gender and sexual orientation. This includes implementing inclusive policies, creating safe spaces and providing specialized psychosocial assistance.

?? The lack of action in this regard not only leaves LGBTQIA+ refugees at risk, but also perpetuates the violation of their basic human rights. It is critical that organizations recognize and address these issues with urgency and empathy, ensuring that all refugees, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, are treated with dignity and respect.

DEHUMANIZATION IN TRANSSEXUAL COMMUNITIES ON THE AFRICAN CONTINENT:

The process of dehumanization begins in small everyday gestures, in disapproving looks and malicious comments that undermine your dignity. It manifests itself most brutally in physical attacks and murders motivated by intolerance and hatred.

? In legal and institutional spheres, dehumanization translates into laws that ignore their identities and deny their right to gender expression. This leads to social marginalization, lack of access to adequate health services, and exclusion from educational and professional opportunities.

? The suffering of transgender communities in Africa is an open wound in the collective conscience. It is a humanitarian tragedy that calls for action and justice. We can no longer close our eyes to this reality. We need to unite in solidarity and fight for the dignity and equality of all, regardless of their gender identity.

?? It is time to recognize the humanity of every transgender person and ensure that their rights are respected and protected. Dehumanization has no place in our society, and it is our collective duty to create a world where everyone can live freely and with dignity.

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WHAT TO EXPECT IN THE FUTURE:

Legal Advances: It is possible that more African countries will review their laws to recognize and protect the rights of LGBTQIA+ people. This could include decriminalizing same-sex relationships, legal recognition of same-sex marriages and partnerships, and implementing comprehensive anti-discrimination laws.

Cultural Changes: As societies evolve and open up to diversity, there are likely to be cultural changes that lead to greater acceptance and inclusion of LGBTQIA+ people. This can be driven by exposure to different perspectives, advances in education about sexual and gender diversity, and the continued activism of LGBTQIA+ communities.

Challenges Remain: However, it is important to recognize that many LGBTQIA+ communities in Africa still face significant challenges, such as discrimination, violence and lack of access to adequate health services. These challenges may persist and require continued efforts to overcome them.

Activism and Resilience: Activism within LGBTQIA+ communities and support from allies have been instrumental in driving change and ensuring rights are protected. It is hoped that this activism and resilience will continue to be driving forces for progress and equality.

International Cooperation: Cooperation and support from international organizations, governments and human rights defenders can play an important role in promoting equality and strengthening LGBTQIA+ communities in Africa.

The future of LGBTQIA+ communities in Africa is dynamic and influenced by a variety of factors. While challenges persist, there is also hope and potential for significant progress in terms of rights, inclusion and respect for diversity. The march continues, we cannot give up fighting for a more fair, inclusive, egalitarian and free world for all of us. Fighting for a free world is a human right.

By. Victor Hugo - Cultural Communicator