The Global South is a term used to describe countries that have historically been colonized by Western powers and continue to face economic and political inequality today. As a result, these countries often struggle with limited access to resources, education, healthcare, and legal protections. Queer individuals, particularly those who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex (LGBTI), experience an added layer of oppression due to their sexual orientation and/or gender identity. In many countries, LGBTI people are criminalized and denied basic rights such as marriage, adoption, and employment. This can lead to social isolation, discrimination, and even violence.
Some progress has been made in recent years towards greater visibility for queer communities.
India decriminalized homosexuality in 2018 and became the second country after South Africa to recognize same-sex marriages in 2014. Nevertheless, these advancements represent only a fraction of the population in the Global South, and there remains much work to be done to achieve full equality.
One major consequence of limited queer visibility in the Global South is the lack of human rights protection for LGBTI individuals. Many governments do not acknowledge or protect the rights of LGBTI people, leaving them vulnerable to discrimination and abuse from both state actors and private citizens. Without legal recognition, LGBTI people are unable to seek justice when they experience harm, whether it be through police brutality, housing discrimination, or denial of medical care.
Without representation in government and other institutions, LGBTI voices are often ignored or silenced. This erasure can lead to policies that exclude or harm LGBTI communities, further exacerbating existing inequality.
Another consequence of limited queer visibility is the lack of recognition for LGBTI people. When queerness is hidden or stigmatized, LGBTI individuals may feel pressured to remain closeted and suppress their true selves, leading to mental health issues like depression and anxiety. In addition, LGBTI people may face pressure to conform to traditional gender roles and sexual norms, which can be detrimental to their physical and emotional wellbeing. By contrast, greater visibility can help normalize LGBTI identities, allowing for more openness and acceptance among peers and family members. It can also provide role models and mentors for young people who may struggle with coming out or understanding their identity.
Limited queer visibility can lead to injustices related to public policy and social programs.
Many countries in the Global South prioritize heterosexual families over all others, providing tax breaks, adoption benefits, and other advantages to married couples with children. By excluding same-sex partnerships, these policies disproportionately benefit cisgender, heterosexual citizens while marginalizing queer families. Similarly, some governments deny funding for HIV/AIDS prevention initiatives targeting men who have sex with men (MSM) or trans women, despite high rates of infection within those groups.
Limited queer visibility contributes to systemic inequality that disadvantages entire communities.
Limited queer visibility in the Global South has far-reaching consequences for human rights, recognition, and justice. Without legal protection, representation, and acknowledgment, LGBTI individuals are vulnerable to discrimination, abuse, and erasure.
Progress is being made towards greater inclusion and equality. By advocating for full protections for LGBTI people, we can create a more just world where everyone can thrive.