Challenging homophobia in Cambodia

Phnom Penh - MSI Cambodia is one of the few organisations in Cambodia responding to the service needs of men who have sex with men (MSM) by providing HIV testing and STI treatment in three locations: Phnom Pehn, Kendal and Siem Reap.

Supported by the Global Fund, the project targets those at risk of contracting HIV/AIDS among the MSM population. In Phnom Penh, the risk is as high as 8.7%. Because MSI Cambodia recognises that MSM are a hidden population in Cambodia, and that many MSM are also often involved in bi-sexual relationships, this project takes a male involvement approach.

Comprehensive SRH information and services are provided alongside general family planning services in the three centres. Discussions about sexuality – and particularly homosexuality - remain taboo in Cambodian society.

To raise awareness about these issues, Cambodia held its biggest ever Pride Festival in May. The week long festival was a huge success and presented a realistic and nuanced picture of gay and lesbian identity in Cambodia. MSI Cambodia MSM Project Manager Srun Srorn helped to organise the event and spent the week promoting male involvement in SRH and the pioneering work of MSI Cambodia’s MSM project.

A rural outreach initiative co-sponsored by MSI Cambodia and other local health and community organisations, is also helping to increase awareness of the issues and improving access to vital services for isolated homosexual and bisexual individuals in the provinces.

MSI Cambodia also leads the way in improving SRH services to lesbian and bisexual women. Evidence shows that women who have yet to come out as a lesbian, in a culture that is openly hostile, are more likely to engage in sexual risk taking, sometimes resulting in unwanted pregnancies.

MSI Cambodia provides family planning and safe abortion services to this group
of women, and is working toward promoting a better understanding.

LGBT can come to me by calling (085)012 34 30 86