‘Marginalised Groups at Greater Risk’
As the world battles to combat the COVID-19 pandemic and its far-reaching consequences, it is imperative to recognise that vulnerable and marginalisd communities such as LGBTQIA+ and gender non-conforming persons are at a greater risk of facing increasing inequalities, discrimination, loss of livelihood and family violence in these extraordinary times.
Global celebration
While commemorating the International Day against Homophobia, Transphobia & Biphobia (IDAHOTB), celebrated globally on 17 May, the Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission says that section 26(3) of the Fijian Constitution bestows upon the state and society an important responsibility in ensuring that prevailing stereotypes and entrenched prejudices, structural inequalities and barriers do not lead to increased violence and discrimination against persons with diverse sexual orientations, gender identities, gender expressions and sex characteristics in the context of this global pandemic.
The theme for this year’s IDAHOTB celebration “Breaking the Silence” is particularly significant in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Restrictions to fundamental rights and freedoms to meet the legitimate aim of public health also poses a greater risk of exposure of the LGBTQIA+ and gender non-conforming community to family violence including verbal, physical and sexual abuse, hate speech and bullying, economic vulnerability, discrimination in securing gainful employment, accessing social protection schemes and access to justice when in conflict with law.
Violation and discimation
Violation and discrimination faced by the LGBTQIA+ and gender non-conforming communities are equally intersectional. LGBTQIA+ and gender non-conforming persons with disabilities and those already in situations of vulnerability and precariousness such as sex workers face the real and daunting possibility of loss of livelihood and homelessness. Constitutional safeguards are not enough. More than ever, we need to recognise the inherent human dignity and humanity in others if we are going to build a just and equal world.