Prejudice, political pressure, and spiritual slurs protect anti-LGBT rules
Despite the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights calling on countries to “create an environment that is free of stigma, reprisals, or criminal prosecution” against sexual minorities and LGBTQ rights defenders, homosexuality is still a crime in 31 of 54 African countries.COMMENTARY
By Jean Jacques DISSOKE
When it comes to decriminalizing sexuality, Africa faces a number of socio-cultural, social, and religious challenges. Despite the progress being made in some parts of the world in recognizing LGBTQ+ rights, many African nations still have stringent laws that criminalize same-sex relationships. LGBTQ+ people in Africa, who are frequently subject to stigma, murder, and discrimination, are in grave danger as a result of this situation. In this article, we will examine the main obstacles to the recognition of LGBTQ+ rights in Africa as well as the main obstacles to the legalization of sexuality.
1. Prejudice and cultural norms
Deep-rooted prejudice and traditional cultural norms contribute significantly to the criminalization of sexuality in Africa. In many African societies, homosexuality is viewed as opposed to traditional cultural and religious beliefs, making it difficult to change existing laws. Fear of alienation and apathy toward LGBTQ+ issues contribute to the development of hostile attitudes toward LGBTQ+ individuals and foster prejudice.
2. Religious pressure
Religious institutions frequently play a significant part in perpetuating the criminalization of homosexuality in Africa. In some nations, powerful religious leaders use their spiritual authority to advocate stringent laws against same-sex relationships and condemn homosexuality. Homophobic rhetoric and literal interpretations of religious scriptures serve as justifications for the oppression of sexual minorities and foster negative attitudes toward LGBTQ+ people.
3. Repressive legislation
Most African nations have laws that, often inherited from colonial times, criminalize homosexuality. These laws frequently serve as a basis for discrimination and persecution against LGBTQ+ individuals because they usually criminalize same-sex sexual acts. For those who have been convicted of homosexuality, the sentence can be as severe as the death penalty, creating a precarious environment for LGBTQ+ people in Africa.
4. Lack of political support
Politicians in many African countries are hesitant to declare their support for the legalization of homosexuality due to societal and political pressures. Political leaders who support LGBTQ+ rights often fear losing the support of conservative voters. In response to international pressures to reform biased laws, sexuality is often left in the background.
5. Violence and discrimination
LGBTQ+ people in Africa face alarmingly high levels of violence and discrimination due to their sexual orientation or gender identity. LGBTQ+ individuals in Africa are frequently targeted for physical assaults, arbitrary arrests, sexual assaults, and harassment. This abuse and discrimination only exacerbate the struggle for LGBTQ+ rights and further complicate the situation.
Conclusion
The legalization of sexuality in Africa faces a number of complex issues, ranging from deep societal prejudices to political and religious pressures. It is crucial to increase awareness and education about LGBTQ+ issues, combat stigma and discrimination, and advocate for legislative reforms to protect the rights of the continent’s LGBTQ+ citizens in order to move towards a more equitable society that respects the rights of all its citizens.
