Peru’s Homophobia and Transphobia Is Showing by Prompting LGBTQ+ Individuals to Be Classified with Mental Disorders 

Peru’s Homophobia and Transphobia Is Showing by Prompting LGBTQ+ Individuals to Be Classified with Mental Disorders 

Peru’s Government sent shockwaves through the world on Friday, May 10, with the approval of Supreme Decree 009-2024. This decree, signed by President Dina Boluarte, Health Minister César Vásquez, and Economy and Finance Minister José Arista, has drawn widespread criticism for its inclusion of gender identity and sexual orientation categories within mental disorder classifications. 

The decision to incorporate these categories into the decree has sparked outrage among LGBTQIA+ communities and human rights organizations across Peru. Many argue that such categorization perpetuates harmful stereotypes and undermines efforts to promote equality and inclusivity. 

According to Infobae, Shely Cabrera, an advocate from the feminist organization Manuela Ramos, expressed concerns about the decree’s potential impact on vulnerable populations. Cabrera highlighted the decree’s modification of the Essential Health Assurance Plan (PEAS), which dictates coverage for various health conditions, as a particularly troubling aspect of the legislation. 

The decree’s reliance on the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10) by the World Health Organization (WHO) as its basis has raised eyebrows among experts. Critics argue that this classification fails to reflect the nuanced understanding of gender identity and sexual orientation in contemporary society. 

Peru’s Government Needs to Do Better

Despite mounting opposition, the Boluarte government has stood by its decision, citing the need to address mental health concerns within the population. However, many LGBTQIA+ activists and allies remain steadfast in their condemnation of the decree, calling for its immediate repeal. 

In response to public outcry, the Ministry of Health (Minsa) issued a statement on Saturday, May 11, reaffirming its commitment to respecting gender and sexual diversity. The statement emphasized the ministry’s dedication to upholding the rights and dignity of all individuals, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation. 

 

The controversy surrounding Supreme Decree 009-2024 has underscored the ongoing struggle for LGBTQIA+ rights in Peru. As calls for repeal grow louder, the government faces mounting pressure to address the concerns of marginalized communities and uphold the principles of equality and non-discrimination. 

For Image credit or remove please email for immediate removal - info@belatina.com