"LGBT" refers to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgendered persons and transsexuals.
Overview:Apparently, the Buddha did not leave any specific teachings on either homosexual orientation or homosexual behavior. He strongly encouraged his followers to be independent, to "be a lamp onto yourself." That is, to examine and test the truth of religious teachings before accepting them. Buddhism is most concerned with whether an action is helpful, based on good intentions, and free from harm. Thus, a specific activity can sometimes be either permissible or not permissible, depending upon its context. This differs from the positions taken by conservative faith groups within Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, etc. They often evaluate a specific sexual activity itself, and decide whether it is good or evil according to a system of morality derived from that group's interpretation of their holy text(s). Often the nature of the relationship is immaterial. For more details: http://www.religioustolerance.org/hom_budd0.htm Srorn |
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Buddhism and homosexuality Overview. Argument from basic principles.
The Coming out in the Kingdom: Lesbian & Gay
CCHR releases report examining the situation of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people in Cambodia
PHNOM PENH, December 9 -- The Cambodian Center for Human Rights (“CCHR”) today releases a report entitled Coming out in the Kingdom: Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people in Cambodia (the “Report”). The Report is the first publication produced by the LGBT Rights Project (the “Project”) implemented by CCHR and supported by the Swedish Association for Sexuality Education.
There have only been a small number of studies of the situation of LGBT people in Cambodia to date. Most of these have focused on health issues related to sexual behavior. This Report looks at the current situation for LGBT people in Cambodia from a human rights perspective, noting that LGBT people are entitled to exactly the same human rights as others in the community. The research in the Report was supported by interviews with approximately 60 LGBT Cambodians, conducted in September and October 2010. The interviews took place in Phnom Penh, Kandal, Kampong Thom, Siem Reap, Battambang, Banteay Meanchey, Pursat, Kampong Chhnang, Kampong Speu, Takeo, and Sihanoukville. CCHR met with interviewees in both groups and on a one-on-one basis. The interview structure was informal. The Report notes that LGBT Cambodians face unique challenges, including ostracism from their families and communities, which often leads to economic hardship, as well as discrimination from employers and authorities such as the police.
CCHR hopes that the Report will serve as a useful tool for raising awareness about the challenges facing LGBT Cambodians today and encouraging acceptance of LGBT people in families and communities throughout Cambodia. CCHR will continue to work with LGBT individuals and groups to support them in their efforts to document and report discrimination and abuse and advocate for recognition of their fundamental human rights. The Report is available to view or download in Khmer and English on the Cambodian Human Rights portal www.sithi.org and on the CCHR website www.cchrcambodia.org.
http://www.sithi.org/temp.php?url=media_view.php&mid=4050&publication=1&
For more information, please contact:
Srorn Srun
Project Coordinator, LGBT Rights Project
Cambodian Center for Human Rights
Tel: +855 81 202 444
Email: srornsrun@cchrcambodia.org
PHNOM PENH, December 9 -- The Cambodian Center for Human Rights (“CCHR”) today releases a report entitled Coming out in the Kingdom: Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people in Cambodia (the “Report”). The Report is the first publication produced by the LGBT Rights Project (the “Project”) implemented by CCHR and supported by the Swedish Association for Sexuality Education.
There have only been a small number of studies of the situation of LGBT people in Cambodia to date. Most of these have focused on health issues related to sexual behavior. This Report looks at the current situation for LGBT people in Cambodia from a human rights perspective, noting that LGBT people are entitled to exactly the same human rights as others in the community. The research in the Report was supported by interviews with approximately 60 LGBT Cambodians, conducted in September and October 2010. The interviews took place in Phnom Penh, Kandal, Kampong Thom, Siem Reap, Battambang, Banteay Meanchey, Pursat, Kampong Chhnang, Kampong Speu, Takeo, and Sihanoukville. CCHR met with interviewees in both groups and on a one-on-one basis. The interview structure was informal. The Report notes that LGBT Cambodians face unique challenges, including ostracism from their families and communities, which often leads to economic hardship, as well as discrimination from employers and authorities such as the police.
CCHR hopes that the Report will serve as a useful tool for raising awareness about the challenges facing LGBT Cambodians today and encouraging acceptance of LGBT people in families and communities throughout Cambodia. CCHR will continue to work with LGBT individuals and groups to support them in their efforts to document and report discrimination and abuse and advocate for recognition of their fundamental human rights. The Report is available to view or download in Khmer and English on the Cambodian Human Rights portal www.sithi.org and on the CCHR website www.cchrcambodia.org.
http://www.sithi.org/temp.php?url=media_view.php&mid=4050&publication=1&
For more information, please contact:
Srorn Srun
Project Coordinator, LGBT Rights Project
Cambodian Center for Human Rights
Tel: +855 81 202 444
Email: srornsrun@cchrcambodia.org
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
"Cambodian Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transsexual and Transgender"
Healthy LGBT is not mean Health Diseases but about Human Rights Equality!
This is event:
Human Rights for Everyone:
Celebrating Cambodia’s LGBT Community on International Day Against
Homophobia and Transphobia
The International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia (“IDAHO”) is celebrated every year
on 17th May. It is coordinated by the Paris-based IDAHO Committee founded and presided over
by the French academic and gay rights activist Louis-Georges Tin. 17th May was chosen as the day
for the event because it marks the date in 1992 that homosexuality was removed from the
International Classification of Diseases of the World Health Organization. IDAHO is celebrated in
more than 50 countries around the world. Cambodia’s Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender
(“LGBT”) community and its supporters will come together to celebrate IDAHO as part of
Cambodian Pride Week 2010.
This is event:
Human Rights for Everyone:
Celebrating Cambodia’s LGBT Community on International Day Against
Homophobia and Transphobia
The International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia (“IDAHO”) is celebrated every year
on 17th May. It is coordinated by the Paris-based IDAHO Committee founded and presided over
by the French academic and gay rights activist Louis-Georges Tin. 17th May was chosen as the day
for the event because it marks the date in 1992 that homosexuality was removed from the
International Classification of Diseases of the World Health Organization. IDAHO is celebrated in
more than 50 countries around the world. Cambodia’s Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender
(“LGBT”) community and its supporters will come together to celebrate IDAHO as part of
Cambodian Pride Week 2010.
Sunday, August 1, 2010
Taza Cafe is a place where LGBT can find a private rooms to chat, share experience and well serve with excellent food and coffee by our profesionals!
COME JOIN US ON TAZA CAFÉ’S OPENING DAY ON
MONDAY, August 2, 2010! WE’LL BE OFFERING 20% DISCOUNTS
OFF OF ANY PURCHASES MADE. OFFER WILL LAST FROM August 2 TO AUGUST 30, 2010.
_1+last+version.jpg)
TAZA CAFÉ is Phnom Penh’s newest and hottest café deli where we serve not only great coffee and tea, but also sell fantastic Asian and European food. While the typical cafés around Cambodia only boast about their coffee and building fixtures, we however offer much more than gimmicks and the ordinary. Some of the key features of TAZA CAFÉ are fast & free Wi-Fi, delicious Khmer and foreign food for breakfast and lunch, international TV programs/news broadcast, art hall, small library, educational classes (i.e. English language, computer literacy), and most uniquely, LGBT support services for the community! Our overall aim is to provide a friendly, comfortable, productive and educational environment for everyone. Come visit us!
MONDAY, August 2, 2010! WE’LL BE OFFERING 20% DISCOUNTS
OFF OF ANY PURCHASES MADE. OFFER WILL LAST FROM August 2 TO AUGUST 30, 2010.
_1+last+version.jpg)
TAZA CAFÉ is Phnom Penh’s newest and hottest café deli where we serve not only great coffee and tea, but also sell fantastic Asian and European food. While the typical cafés around Cambodia only boast about their coffee and building fixtures, we however offer much more than gimmicks and the ordinary. Some of the key features of TAZA CAFÉ are fast & free Wi-Fi, delicious Khmer and foreign food for breakfast and lunch, international TV programs/news broadcast, art hall, small library, educational classes (i.e. English language, computer literacy), and most uniquely, LGBT support services for the community! Our overall aim is to provide a friendly, comfortable, productive and educational environment for everyone. Come visit us!
Saturday, July 24, 2010
Sexual and Reproductive Health are Recognized around the World as Human Rights
http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&as_q=to+be+healthy+as+human+being&as_epq=&as_oq=&as_eq=&num=10&lr=&as_filetype=pdf&ft=i&as_sitesearch=&as_qdr=all&as_rights=&as_occt=any&cr=&as_nlo=&as_nhi=&safe=images
Coming out in Phnom Penh
Weeklong LGBT Pride Festival celebrates the Kingdom’s homosexual culture
Drag divas Deedee (left) and Oak perform at Phnom Penh’s Blue Chilli bar in August 2008. The gay-friendly bar scene has heated up in the city in the past several years.PHNOM Penh is hosting its seventh annual Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) Pride Festival until May 17, a weeklong event that celebrates LGBT culture and provides practical support for those in the gay community.
Over the past few years, Phnom Penh and Siem Reap have seen the opening of an increased number of gay bars, and last year’s festival was attended by 50 women from the provinces, perhaps showing that “open” gay culture is not only limited to the cities.
Cambodia, along with other predominantly Buddhist countries, enjoys a reputation for tolerance and acceptance of homosexuality.
In some ways gender and sexuality are more fluid here than in Western societies. There are considered to be three genders: male, female and khtuey. Generally speaking, khtuey refers to men with feminine characteristics who are also usually gay.
When people talk about Khmer culture being accepting of homosexuality, what they’re usually referring to is khtuey, which actually represents only a small section of the LGBT community.
When compared to other Asian countries, Cambodia has a less draconian stance. In January of this year, for example, Beijing authorities closed down the Mr Gay pageant an hour before it was due to start, confirming that China’s attitude towards the gay community is undecided at best.
Meanwhile, there hasn’t been any official opposition to the Kingdom’s Pride Festival, but ongoing “morality” crackdowns are sporadic and unpredictable, with the definition of immorality ever-changing.
Tolerant views of the LGBT community are not shared by everyone. The lack of public hostility and aggression toward LGBT people does not mean that homosexuality is widely accepted in Cambodia or that discrimination does not take other forms.
Homosexuality has never been illegal in Cambodia, but there are currently no laws protecting people against discrimination based on their sexual orientation, and ignorance can lead to victimisation of LGBT people by others.
“Sometimes people will say rude or hurtful things, but they don’t think they’re discriminating,” said Lang, a student in Phnom Penh.
Many believe that being gay is accepted in Khmer culture but only when it’s presented in a way that does not threaten the traditional family structure.
“My family don’t know I’m living with another woman,” said Heng, a bar worker.
“If they did I don’t think they would talk to me anymore.”
But a handful of activists in the LGBT community are working to educate the public about homosexuality. One of the festival organisers, Srorn Srun, is a project manager for Marie Stopes International, which offers vital sexual health services, including HIV/AIDS referrals and advocacy work for gay men.
“There needs to be more focus on the causes of HIV/AIDS in the gay population. In our advocacy work we try and educate people about what it is to be gay and encourage communities to be accepting,” says Srorn Srun.
Srorn Srun said the situation is particularly difficult for gay women because they keep their sexuality a secret and face more societal and family pressure to get married and follow convention. Lesbians and transgender people in particular lack support in areas that don’t affect gay men. For example, unlike men, who can marry and have gay relationships, it is very difficult for a married woman to have the same autonomy outside the home.
“I know a lot of gay men who are married. I don’t know any lesbians who are. Once they’re married there’s no opportunity for them to meet other lesbians,” said the owner of a gay bar in Phnom Penh.
For more: http://www.phnompenhpost.com/index.php/2010051139002/Lifestyle/coming-out-in-phnom-penh.html
Drag divas Deedee (left) and Oak perform at Phnom Penh’s Blue Chilli bar in August 2008. The gay-friendly bar scene has heated up in the city in the past several years.PHNOM Penh is hosting its seventh annual Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) Pride Festival until May 17, a weeklong event that celebrates LGBT culture and provides practical support for those in the gay community.
Over the past few years, Phnom Penh and Siem Reap have seen the opening of an increased number of gay bars, and last year’s festival was attended by 50 women from the provinces, perhaps showing that “open” gay culture is not only limited to the cities.
Cambodia, along with other predominantly Buddhist countries, enjoys a reputation for tolerance and acceptance of homosexuality.
In some ways gender and sexuality are more fluid here than in Western societies. There are considered to be three genders: male, female and khtuey. Generally speaking, khtuey refers to men with feminine characteristics who are also usually gay.
When people talk about Khmer culture being accepting of homosexuality, what they’re usually referring to is khtuey, which actually represents only a small section of the LGBT community.
When compared to other Asian countries, Cambodia has a less draconian stance. In January of this year, for example, Beijing authorities closed down the Mr Gay pageant an hour before it was due to start, confirming that China’s attitude towards the gay community is undecided at best.
Meanwhile, there hasn’t been any official opposition to the Kingdom’s Pride Festival, but ongoing “morality” crackdowns are sporadic and unpredictable, with the definition of immorality ever-changing.
Tolerant views of the LGBT community are not shared by everyone. The lack of public hostility and aggression toward LGBT people does not mean that homosexuality is widely accepted in Cambodia or that discrimination does not take other forms.
Homosexuality has never been illegal in Cambodia, but there are currently no laws protecting people against discrimination based on their sexual orientation, and ignorance can lead to victimisation of LGBT people by others.
“Sometimes people will say rude or hurtful things, but they don’t think they’re discriminating,” said Lang, a student in Phnom Penh.
Many believe that being gay is accepted in Khmer culture but only when it’s presented in a way that does not threaten the traditional family structure.
“My family don’t know I’m living with another woman,” said Heng, a bar worker.
“If they did I don’t think they would talk to me anymore.”
But a handful of activists in the LGBT community are working to educate the public about homosexuality. One of the festival organisers, Srorn Srun, is a project manager for Marie Stopes International, which offers vital sexual health services, including HIV/AIDS referrals and advocacy work for gay men.
“There needs to be more focus on the causes of HIV/AIDS in the gay population. In our advocacy work we try and educate people about what it is to be gay and encourage communities to be accepting,” says Srorn Srun.
Srorn Srun said the situation is particularly difficult for gay women because they keep their sexuality a secret and face more societal and family pressure to get married and follow convention. Lesbians and transgender people in particular lack support in areas that don’t affect gay men. For example, unlike men, who can marry and have gay relationships, it is very difficult for a married woman to have the same autonomy outside the home.
“I know a lot of gay men who are married. I don’t know any lesbians who are. Once they’re married there’s no opportunity for them to meet other lesbians,” said the owner of a gay bar in Phnom Penh.
For more: http://www.phnompenhpost.com/index.php/2010051139002/Lifestyle/coming-out-in-phnom-penh.html
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Healthy People Companion Document for Lesbian, Gay, Bixesual, and Transgender (LGBT) Health
C o n t e n t s:
I n t r o d u c t i o n . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 1
Access to Quality Health Services. . . . . .. . . 2 7
C a n c e r.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 7
Educational and Community-Based Programs. .. . . . . . . . . . . . 11 2
Health Communication.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 5 1
H I V / A I D S . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 7 2
Immunization and Infectious Diseases. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 9 7
Mental Health and Mental Disorders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 0 5
Nutrition and We i g h t . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 4 0
Public Health Infrastructure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 5 8
Sexually Transmitted Diseases (Infections) . . . . . . . . . 2 9 8
Substance A b u s e. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 3 0
Tobacco Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 5 2
Violence Prevention. .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 7 6
A p p e n d i c e s
Appendix A: Recommendations . . . . . . . . . . . . . 417
Appendix B: Acronyms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 435
Appendix C: LGBT Definitions .. . . . . . . . . . . . . 443
Appendix D: Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 451
Appendix E: Contributors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 477
For the detail document please visit http://www.glma.org/_data/n_0001/resources/live/HealthyCompanionDoc3.pdf
I n t r o d u c t i o n . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 1
Access to Quality Health Services. . . . . .. . . 2 7
C a n c e r.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 7
Educational and Community-Based Programs. .. . . . . . . . . . . . 11 2
Health Communication.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 5 1
H I V / A I D S . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 7 2
Immunization and Infectious Diseases. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 9 7
Mental Health and Mental Disorders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 0 5
Nutrition and We i g h t . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 4 0
Public Health Infrastructure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 5 8
Sexually Transmitted Diseases (Infections) . . . . . . . . . 2 9 8
Substance A b u s e. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 3 0
Tobacco Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 5 2
Violence Prevention. .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 7 6
A p p e n d i c e s
Appendix A: Recommendations . . . . . . . . . . . . . 417
Appendix B: Acronyms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 435
Appendix C: LGBT Definitions .. . . . . . . . . . . . . 443
Appendix D: Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 451
Appendix E: Contributors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 477
For the detail document please visit http://www.glma.org/_data/n_0001/resources/live/HealthyCompanionDoc3.pdf
Sunday, May 30, 2010
Result of An LGBT Workshop!
WORKSHOP REPORT
Rainbow Community Kampuchea (RoCK)
‘What is life like for LGBT in Cambodia?’ – 9-11th March 2010
Workshop participants
Over 100 hundred participants gathered in Men’s Health Cambodia (MHC) to be part of the 3 day workshop. A group of six participants came from 13 provinces, a larger number of twenty-two came from Phnom Penh and some MSM NGOs sent staff to facilitate and learn. The provinces were:
Kompong Chnang, Siem Reap, Kompong Speu, Banteay Meanchey, Takeo, Kompong Som, Kandal, Battambang, Kompong Cham, Svay Rieng, Prey Veng, Kampot, Pursat and Phnom Penh city.
Participating and supporting NGOs were:
Men’s Health Cambodia (MHC); Men’s Health Social Services (MHSS); Family Health International (FHI); Building Community Voice (BCV); Social Action for Change (SAC); KHANA, Women’s Network for Unity (WNU); BC, CUD.
It was the first time such a workshop has taken place in Cambodia, bringing together a mixed group of lesbian, gay and transgender people to share experiences.
For the lesbians from the provinces, it was certainly the first time- apart from Cambodia Pride 2009 when lesbians from five provinces participated- that they had been invited to be part of such a workshop.
For more go to www.phnompenhpride.blogspot.com
Rainbow Community Kampuchea (RoCK)
‘What is life like for LGBT in Cambodia?’ – 9-11th March 2010
Workshop participants
Over 100 hundred participants gathered in Men’s Health Cambodia (MHC) to be part of the 3 day workshop. A group of six participants came from 13 provinces, a larger number of twenty-two came from Phnom Penh and some MSM NGOs sent staff to facilitate and learn. The provinces were:
Kompong Chnang, Siem Reap, Kompong Speu, Banteay Meanchey, Takeo, Kompong Som, Kandal, Battambang, Kompong Cham, Svay Rieng, Prey Veng, Kampot, Pursat and Phnom Penh city.
Participating and supporting NGOs were:
Men’s Health Cambodia (MHC); Men’s Health Social Services (MHSS); Family Health International (FHI); Building Community Voice (BCV); Social Action for Change (SAC); KHANA, Women’s Network for Unity (WNU); BC, CUD.
It was the first time such a workshop has taken place in Cambodia, bringing together a mixed group of lesbian, gay and transgender people to share experiences.
For the lesbians from the provinces, it was certainly the first time- apart from Cambodia Pride 2009 when lesbians from five provinces participated- that they had been invited to be part of such a workshop.
For more go to www.phnompenhpride.blogspot.com
Monday, May 3, 2010
Love Who You Are! Life Is Beautiful!
One Week LGBT Pride 2010 In Phnom Penh!
You need more details please link to www.phnompenhpride.blogspot.com.
You need more details please link to www.phnompenhpride.blogspot.com.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Cambodia Pride Week 2010
We are proud to officially announce that plans for Cambodia Pride 2010 are well underway!
As with last year we will celebrate Cambodia Pride from the 11th-17th May, to coincide with International Day Against Homophobia (IDAHO) 2010.
We have a busy team of Cambodian and international volunteers working hard to make Cambodia Pride 2010 even more fabulous than 2009, if that’s possible! So get your dancing shoes on and get ready to paint Phnom Penh pink once again with a fab line- up of activities!
Pride last year was possible with the generous support from the LGBT groups and individuals from all over the globe from America to Russia to India. We would welcome support again, whether financial, technical or just a email to share the love ;o) Here are some ways….
• Can you volunteer any technical skills? Designing posters, DJs, dancers, photographers, camera crews, artists and fundraisers- please do share your time and skills with us!
• We need Cambodian LGBT volunteers, please contact us if you want to be involved and join our team!
• If you are a member of an LGBT group business, please consider running a fundraiser for us.
• Pride is a voluntary group and we rely on donations to keep events free for local LGBT- if you can make a donation towards this, it would be hugely appreciated by us.
• If you have any bright ideas or suggestions please let us know! And please invite all your LGBT friends to join the group, or anyone else who feels the Pride love!
Please watch this space this updates, as soon as the line-up in decided we will let you know. We look forward to seeing as many of you as possible. Please contact us on facebook or email cambodiapride@hotmail.com .
Lots of love from
The Pride Committee xxx
As with last year we will celebrate Cambodia Pride from the 11th-17th May, to coincide with International Day Against Homophobia (IDAHO) 2010.
We have a busy team of Cambodian and international volunteers working hard to make Cambodia Pride 2010 even more fabulous than 2009, if that’s possible! So get your dancing shoes on and get ready to paint Phnom Penh pink once again with a fab line- up of activities!
Pride last year was possible with the generous support from the LGBT groups and individuals from all over the globe from America to Russia to India. We would welcome support again, whether financial, technical or just a email to share the love ;o) Here are some ways….
• Can you volunteer any technical skills? Designing posters, DJs, dancers, photographers, camera crews, artists and fundraisers- please do share your time and skills with us!
• We need Cambodian LGBT volunteers, please contact us if you want to be involved and join our team!
• If you are a member of an LGBT group business, please consider running a fundraiser for us.
• Pride is a voluntary group and we rely on donations to keep events free for local LGBT- if you can make a donation towards this, it would be hugely appreciated by us.
• If you have any bright ideas or suggestions please let us know! And please invite all your LGBT friends to join the group, or anyone else who feels the Pride love!
Please watch this space this updates, as soon as the line-up in decided we will let you know. We look forward to seeing as many of you as possible. Please contact us on facebook or email cambodiapride@hotmail.com .
Lots of love from
The Pride Committee xxx
Friday, February 26, 2010
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Sharing your life as LGBT in your community in Cambodia
- Cambodia Pride Week 2009
During February-May 2009 a loose alliance of lgbt Cambodians, ex-patriots, NGO workers (working with MSM/HIV/AIDS NGOs) and gay business-owners worked together to plan and hold the first week-long Cambodia Pride 12-17th May 2009 (supported in part by British Embassy funds). This was the 5th Pride event in Cambodia but the first to last a week and embrace a range of activities and actors.
Following a successful week of events (workshops, art exhibition, film festival, social nights and networking) those involved have reflected on the experience and found lots of possibilities for building on Cambodia Pride week. Apart from large numbers of Cambodian lgbt enthusiastically participating in Pride week, the week highlighted both the level of willingness for activism and the level of need which exists in Cambodia’s still fledgling lgbt community and movement.
What services do exist for the community predominantly cater for MSM, or men who have sex with men, some of whom are gay. For Cambodian transgender few services exist beyond sexual health and safe sex support. Human rights abuses suffered by the trans community- who often earn a living as sex workers due to limited employment options- regularly go unreported and victims receive limited support due to a lack of resources and services, as well as a challenging human rights context.
Very little exists for lesbians. In fact this was one of the great successes of Cambodia Pride week as over 50 lesbians from 5 provinces traveled to PP to take part in the weekend section. They attended workshops and witnessed the level of organising currently in place for MSM. This inspired them to have such a vision for Cambodian lesbians too and since May two lesbian groups have self-organised, one in PP (over 200 members) and one in Kg Chnang (over 100 members) with support from Women’s Network for Unity (WNU).
For the NGOs who supported Cambodia Pride week the range of issues/needs raised by participants at the workshops was challenging as the NGO remit is solely a health service remit. As NGOs are currently the largest service provider to the lgbt community- or more accurately MSM community- the thinking and understanding of what it means to be ‘gay or lesbian’ is often reduced to the sexual health issues involved in having that identity rather than a broader exploration of what it means to be gay or lesbian or bi or trans in Cambodian society.
What also remains lacking is a broad range of services to support the most-times difficult personal journey involved in being lgbt- personal support like drop-in centres where people can meet and experience a sense of community and solidarity; support for coming out to family and friends; help-lines to break the isolation experienced by lgbt people especially in rural areas; life skills training, including personal development courses and specific job skills training; advocacy training to lobby for greater security for and understanding of lgbt people in Cambodia.
- Building on Cambodia Pride Week 2009
Regular meetings have followed Cambodia Pride Week- mostly monthly and sometimes bi-monthly. As a result of Cambodia Pride week there is now a greater number of lgbt people attending these meetings, Cambodian and ex-patriot. Some follow-up activities have happened already. These include:
- information sessions for students of Gender Studies in Pannasastra university
- self-organising of two lesbian groups (PP, Kg Chnang)
- preparation of Cambodia Pride promotional dvd (soon to be completed)
- monthly lgbt film nights at META House
- a post-Pride photo exhibition at META House
While ideas are already taking shape for a bigger and better Cambodia Pride Week 2010, there is a lot of momentum among Cambodian and ex-patriot lgbts to harness the connections and possibilities generated by this year’s Pride and strengthen the lgbt community/movement through developing activities/services/events other than Cambodia Pride Week.
This year, we will celebrate Pride Week from 11 to 17 May 2010.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
About LGBT Health in Cambodia
Lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans people have many of the same health concerns as anyone else, but cultural differences and the impact of homophobia, biphobia and transphobia mean that these health needs may be experienced quite differently. LGBT people also do not have the same access to health care that many Cambodians take for granted, as they often face several barriers when attempting to access health care.
Due in part to negative past experiences, many LGBT people may delay or avoid seeking health care altogether. They may choose to withhold personal information from health care providers as well, because of the fear that disclosure will lead to prejudice and discrimination. In addition, LGBT people have some unique health concerns and may be at increased risk for certain health issues. Most health care providers are not trained on these LGBT health needs and may not be sensitive to the particular health risks or knowledgeable about how to work with LGBT people.
In general, LGBT people end up receiving less quality health care than the population as a whole. A 2008 Ministry of Health through NCHADS study showed that gay men, lesbians and bisexuals were more likely than heterosexuals to report having had an unmet health care need in the past year. Often, this lack of access is compounded by membership in other groups which also face discrimination or other access problems including Aboriginal communities, people with disabilities, racial and ethnic minority groups, newcomers, rural communities and people living in poverty.
We all deserve to be healthy, and being healthy means taking care of our physical, emotional, sexual, psychological and spiritual needs.
The Healthy Gay Cambodia website is designed to provide information to help both LGBT people meet their health care providers who are friendly, gentle and expecially more aware of LGBT health issues:
• If you want to meet your health's need please come to visit our clinics
1) Clinic Marie Stopes Chba Ampov House # 15, Highway 1, Chba Ampov 2 Khan Mean Chey, Phnom Penh
Email: msm.ca@mariestopes.org.kh
Tel: 023 720 125
2) Clinic Marie Stopes Takhmao House # 538, St 210 Phum Takhmao, Srok Takhmao Kandal province
Email: msm.tk@mariestopes.org.kh
Tel: 023 425 710
3) Clinic Marie Stopes Koh Kong, Phum # 2, Srok Smach Meanchey Koh Kong province
Email: centerkk@mariestopes.org.kh
Tel: 035 936 238
4) Clinic Marie Stopes Battambang, House # 152 Highway # 5, Phum Romchak 4, Srok Battambang Battambang Province
Email: centerbb@mariestopes.org.kh
Tel: 053 953 107
5) Clinic Marie Stopes Kampong Thom, Phum 4, Khum Kampong Thom, Srok Stung Sen, Kampong Thom province
Email: centerkt@mariestopes.org.kh
Tel: 062 962 238
6/ Marie Stopes Siem Reap# 68, group 5, Tapon village, Svay Dongkum district, Siem Reap province
Email: msm.sr@mariestopes.org.kh
Tel: 063 963 454
• If you want to talk to very soft voice of the gently counsellors please call to (855)012 38 72 38; (855)012 53 43 67; (855) 099 33 80 09
Due in part to negative past experiences, many LGBT people may delay or avoid seeking health care altogether. They may choose to withhold personal information from health care providers as well, because of the fear that disclosure will lead to prejudice and discrimination. In addition, LGBT people have some unique health concerns and may be at increased risk for certain health issues. Most health care providers are not trained on these LGBT health needs and may not be sensitive to the particular health risks or knowledgeable about how to work with LGBT people.
In general, LGBT people end up receiving less quality health care than the population as a whole. A 2008 Ministry of Health through NCHADS study showed that gay men, lesbians and bisexuals were more likely than heterosexuals to report having had an unmet health care need in the past year. Often, this lack of access is compounded by membership in other groups which also face discrimination or other access problems including Aboriginal communities, people with disabilities, racial and ethnic minority groups, newcomers, rural communities and people living in poverty.
We all deserve to be healthy, and being healthy means taking care of our physical, emotional, sexual, psychological and spiritual needs.
The Healthy Gay Cambodia website is designed to provide information to help both LGBT people meet their health care providers who are friendly, gentle and expecially more aware of LGBT health issues:
• If you want to meet your health's need please come to visit our clinics
1) Clinic Marie Stopes Chba Ampov House # 15, Highway 1, Chba Ampov 2 Khan Mean Chey, Phnom Penh
Email: msm.ca@mariestopes.org.kh
Tel: 023 720 125
2) Clinic Marie Stopes Takhmao House # 538, St 210 Phum Takhmao, Srok Takhmao Kandal province
Email: msm.tk@mariestopes.org.kh
Tel: 023 425 710
3) Clinic Marie Stopes Koh Kong, Phum # 2, Srok Smach Meanchey Koh Kong province
Email: centerkk@mariestopes.org.kh
Tel: 035 936 238
4) Clinic Marie Stopes Battambang, House # 152 Highway # 5, Phum Romchak 4, Srok Battambang Battambang Province
Email: centerbb@mariestopes.org.kh
Tel: 053 953 107
5) Clinic Marie Stopes Kampong Thom, Phum 4, Khum Kampong Thom, Srok Stung Sen, Kampong Thom province
Email: centerkt@mariestopes.org.kh
Tel: 062 962 238
6/ Marie Stopes Siem Reap# 68, group 5, Tapon village, Svay Dongkum district, Siem Reap province
Email: msm.sr@mariestopes.org.kh
Tel: 063 963 454
• If you want to talk to very soft voice of the gently counsellors please call to (855)012 38 72 38; (855)012 53 43 67; (855) 099 33 80 09
Kindest Cut campaign
Today, MSI launched its Kindest Cut campaign. As part of the campaign, MSI has launched a new video on how Male Circumcision could be used in Malawi to help prevent the spread of HIV; developed a new section about Male Circumcision on the MSI website; produced a fact sheet; run a widespread press campaign and mailed all of our major donors, potential donors and other supporters the following will give you more information:
http://www.mariestopes.org/Health_programmes/HIV%c2%acSTIs/Male_Circumcision.aspx
http://www.mariestopes.org/Health_programmes/HIV%c2%acSTIs/Male_Circumcision.aspx
Monday, November 30, 2009
LGBT movies: A Glimpse Of The Third Sex
Do you always think that the gay and the lesbians are ‘untouchables’? Are you always waiting for an opportunity to crack a rude joke on your lesbian colleague? If yes, then you need to understand that they are normal people like us. A classic LGBT movie can help you to dwell deeper in the unchartered waters of lesbianism.
An LGBT movie( Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Trans gender) explores the emotional aspect of the relationships which are not considered normal by the societies across the world. The issues of unusual sexual preferences of people has always been a clandestine affair. However these movies have brought it to forefront and depicted these relationships in a very educating light.
Two of the greatest works in this field are “I can’t think straight” and “The World Unseen”. The first movie shows you how women across the world are liberating themselves from age old beliefs and going great lengths to find their lady love. “The World unseen” is a period drama set against the apartheid ravaged South Africa in 1950. This movie speaks strongly about women liberation as well as the clutches of racism.
Enlightenment Films provide healthy LGTB entertainment. Enlightenment Productions have many new exciting assignments in the pipeline. You can log on to www.enlightenment-productions.com to know more about the company.
An LGBT movie( Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Trans gender) explores the emotional aspect of the relationships which are not considered normal by the societies across the world. The issues of unusual sexual preferences of people has always been a clandestine affair. However these movies have brought it to forefront and depicted these relationships in a very educating light.
Two of the greatest works in this field are “I can’t think straight” and “The World Unseen”. The first movie shows you how women across the world are liberating themselves from age old beliefs and going great lengths to find their lady love. “The World unseen” is a period drama set against the apartheid ravaged South Africa in 1950. This movie speaks strongly about women liberation as well as the clutches of racism.
Enlightenment Films provide healthy LGTB entertainment. Enlightenment Productions have many new exciting assignments in the pipeline. You can log on to www.enlightenment-productions.com to know more about the company.
Creating a Healthy LGBT Relationship
When You Meet Someone Special
It takes time, respect and nurture to create a healthy relationship. Being in a relationship can provide support and comfort in a society that can be isolating. Yet, lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender couples often begin relationships without role models or social acceptance. This brochure offers suggestions to help your relationship have the best foundation possible.
Laying the Groundwork
It is important to begin a relationship without unfinished business. Ideally, each person should enter the relationship from a place of acceptance of their sexual orientation or gender identity. It would be helpful to work through internalized homophobia or transphobia prior to coming together. If you cannot feel good about yourself, it will be harder to feel good about your relationship.
Each couple will need to decide how out to be. Where different levels of being out exist, frustration can develop. If one partner is used to being open about their orientation or identity and the other person has reasons to not disclose, discussing where to be out and where to be judicious can help.
Each person should have a good support system in place. This support will help you deal with external bias and discrimination. A good support system will encourage your relationship to flourish when outside society may undermine it.
Creating What Works
Here are some qualities to look for:
Time: It is a red flag when relationships move too fast. It takes time to learn about a potential partner: What do other people say about him or her? How does she interact with her family? How is he when things do not go his way? Has she ever been arrested? Is he or she in financial trouble?
Family and Friends: Your partner understands and encourages you to spend time with the people you care about. She or he is secure.
Give and Take: Both partners give. Both partners take. No one is being used. No one is being neglected. Responsibilities are not lopsided.
Equality: One person does not have the power and control.
Negotiation: Each person will concede or apologize and do what is best for the relationship. Agreements are renegotiable. Both people take responsibility to make the relationship work.
Decisions: Partners make important decisions together. One person is not deciding everything. Each person makes their own decisions on minor things, but both opinions and preferences are considered in major things. Compromises are made.
Peaceful problem-solving: Disagreements and problems are solved peacefully, without violence. Thoughts can be voiced and heard. There are no personal attacks. After the argument, you both make efforts to resolve the issue. Apologies are made and neither person carries the blame. The resolution is satisfying to both people.
Finances: You work together to manage finances and needs in a mutually agreeable way. There are communicated understandings and goals that you both work toward. No one is hiding information or ignoring concerns.
Sex: As a couple you decide how monogamous to be and you keep the agreement. If you say no to a sex act, that is respected. If you say wait, then your partner waits.
Feelings: You feel good about yourself and your relationship. You want to be in the relationship because you are with the right person, not because it is better than being alone or you fear leaving.
Safety: Both people feel safe and free from threat. There is the absence of physical, verbal and emotional violence. No one is threatening to harm him or herself as a means of manipulation or control. If you choose to keep your orientation private, your partner holds that as sacred.
Challenges in Committed Relationships
LGBT couples begin relationships without clearly defined roles. This is an advantage and a challenge. Each couple can create what works best, yet will have to negotiate things that other couples may take for granted.
Both people may have been socialized to take the lead, but it can be freeing to let go and decide roles based upon each other’s strengths and on what is best for the couple.
LGBT relationships also lack full legal protection in Cambodia. Canbodian law provides protections around health care and finances. There is a health crisis, a partner may not be able to decide things or even visit.
For more information and the brochure about your relationship have the best foundation possible please go to http://www.ewu.edu/x59423.xml
It takes time, respect and nurture to create a healthy relationship. Being in a relationship can provide support and comfort in a society that can be isolating. Yet, lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender couples often begin relationships without role models or social acceptance. This brochure offers suggestions to help your relationship have the best foundation possible.
Laying the Groundwork
It is important to begin a relationship without unfinished business. Ideally, each person should enter the relationship from a place of acceptance of their sexual orientation or gender identity. It would be helpful to work through internalized homophobia or transphobia prior to coming together. If you cannot feel good about yourself, it will be harder to feel good about your relationship.
Each couple will need to decide how out to be. Where different levels of being out exist, frustration can develop. If one partner is used to being open about their orientation or identity and the other person has reasons to not disclose, discussing where to be out and where to be judicious can help.
Each person should have a good support system in place. This support will help you deal with external bias and discrimination. A good support system will encourage your relationship to flourish when outside society may undermine it.
Creating What Works
Here are some qualities to look for:
Time: It is a red flag when relationships move too fast. It takes time to learn about a potential partner: What do other people say about him or her? How does she interact with her family? How is he when things do not go his way? Has she ever been arrested? Is he or she in financial trouble?
Family and Friends: Your partner understands and encourages you to spend time with the people you care about. She or he is secure.
Give and Take: Both partners give. Both partners take. No one is being used. No one is being neglected. Responsibilities are not lopsided.
Equality: One person does not have the power and control.
Negotiation: Each person will concede or apologize and do what is best for the relationship. Agreements are renegotiable. Both people take responsibility to make the relationship work.
Decisions: Partners make important decisions together. One person is not deciding everything. Each person makes their own decisions on minor things, but both opinions and preferences are considered in major things. Compromises are made.
Peaceful problem-solving: Disagreements and problems are solved peacefully, without violence. Thoughts can be voiced and heard. There are no personal attacks. After the argument, you both make efforts to resolve the issue. Apologies are made and neither person carries the blame. The resolution is satisfying to both people.
Finances: You work together to manage finances and needs in a mutually agreeable way. There are communicated understandings and goals that you both work toward. No one is hiding information or ignoring concerns.
Sex: As a couple you decide how monogamous to be and you keep the agreement. If you say no to a sex act, that is respected. If you say wait, then your partner waits.
Feelings: You feel good about yourself and your relationship. You want to be in the relationship because you are with the right person, not because it is better than being alone or you fear leaving.
Safety: Both people feel safe and free from threat. There is the absence of physical, verbal and emotional violence. No one is threatening to harm him or herself as a means of manipulation or control. If you choose to keep your orientation private, your partner holds that as sacred.
Challenges in Committed Relationships
LGBT couples begin relationships without clearly defined roles. This is an advantage and a challenge. Each couple can create what works best, yet will have to negotiate things that other couples may take for granted.
Both people may have been socialized to take the lead, but it can be freeing to let go and decide roles based upon each other’s strengths and on what is best for the couple.
LGBT relationships also lack full legal protection in Cambodia. Canbodian law provides protections around health care and finances. There is a health crisis, a partner may not be able to decide things or even visit.
For more information and the brochure about your relationship have the best foundation possible please go to http://www.ewu.edu/x59423.xml
Sunday, November 29, 2009
What MSM Can Do?
Your risk of getting HIV or passing it to someone else depends on several things. Do you know what they are? You might want to talk to someone who knows about HIV. You can also do the following:
If both you and your partner have HIV, use condoms to prevent other STDs and possible infection with a different strain of HIV.
If only one of you has HIV, use a latex condom and lubricant every time you have sex.
If you have, or plan to have, more than one sex partner, consider the following:
- Get tested for HIV. Men who have sex with other men should get tested at least once a year.
- Talk about HIV and other STDs with each partner before you have sex.
- Learn as much as you can about each partner’s past behavior (sex and drug use) and consider the risks to your health before you have sex.
- Ask your partners if they have recently been tested for HIV; encourage those who have not been tested to do so.
- Use a latex condom and lubricant every time you have sex.
- If you think you may have been exposed to another STD such as gonorrhea, syphilis, or Chlamydia trachomatis infection, get treatment. These diseases can increase your risk of getting HIV.
- Get vaccinated against hepatitis A and B viruses.
- Even if you think you have low risk for HIV infection, get tested whenever you have a regular medical check-up.
- Do not inject illicit drugs (drugs not prescribed by your doctor). You can get HIV through needles, syringes, and other works if they are contaminated with the blood of someone who has HIV. Drugs also cloud your mind, which may result in riskier sex.
If you do inject drugs, do the following:
- Use only clean needles, syringes, and other works.
- Never share needles, syringes, or other works.
- Be careful not to expose yourself to another person's blood.
- Get tested for HIV test at least once a year.
- Consider getting counseling and treatment for your drug use.
- Get vaccinated against hepatitis A and B viruses.
- Do not have sex when you are taking drugs or drinking alcohol because being high can make you more likely to take risks.
To protect yourself, remember these BCs:
B=Be Faithful
C=Condoms
If both you and your partner have HIV, use condoms to prevent other STDs and possible infection with a different strain of HIV.
If only one of you has HIV, use a latex condom and lubricant every time you have sex.
If you have, or plan to have, more than one sex partner, consider the following:
- Get tested for HIV. Men who have sex with other men should get tested at least once a year.
- Talk about HIV and other STDs with each partner before you have sex.
- Learn as much as you can about each partner’s past behavior (sex and drug use) and consider the risks to your health before you have sex.
- Ask your partners if they have recently been tested for HIV; encourage those who have not been tested to do so.
- Use a latex condom and lubricant every time you have sex.
- If you think you may have been exposed to another STD such as gonorrhea, syphilis, or Chlamydia trachomatis infection, get treatment. These diseases can increase your risk of getting HIV.
- Get vaccinated against hepatitis A and B viruses.
- Even if you think you have low risk for HIV infection, get tested whenever you have a regular medical check-up.
- Do not inject illicit drugs (drugs not prescribed by your doctor). You can get HIV through needles, syringes, and other works if they are contaminated with the blood of someone who has HIV. Drugs also cloud your mind, which may result in riskier sex.
If you do inject drugs, do the following:
- Use only clean needles, syringes, and other works.
- Never share needles, syringes, or other works.
- Be careful not to expose yourself to another person's blood.
- Get tested for HIV test at least once a year.
- Consider getting counseling and treatment for your drug use.
- Get vaccinated against hepatitis A and B viruses.
- Do not have sex when you are taking drugs or drinking alcohol because being high can make you more likely to take risks.
To protect yourself, remember these BCs:
B=Be Faithful
C=Condoms
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights
Everyone is entitled to a satisfying and safe sex life. We all have the right to decide if, when and with whom we have sex, as well as if, when and with whom we have children. Those are some of the foundations in the work for sexual and reproductive health and rights – SRHR. Here are a few others:
- LGBT people should be able to live their lives in the open, free from discrimination.
- Sexual violence must stop.
- Everyone is entitled to choose for themselves whether they want to marry, and whom.
- Pregnancy should not endanger women's lives (or lesbian's lives.
- Everyone should be given the information they need in order to protect themselves against unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections.
- Everyone should have access to contraceptives.
- Abortions should be legal, accessible and safe.
- Mothers and infants should be given adequate health care.
The key to development
It was only recently that health and rights connected to sexuality and pregnancy were acknowledged as human rights. The idea still faces fierce opposition. But in the most intimate lies the key to many of the major global challenges today, such as the fight to eradicate poverty, and the struggle to keep the mothers of the world alive.
- LGBT people should be able to live their lives in the open, free from discrimination.
- Sexual violence must stop.
- Everyone is entitled to choose for themselves whether they want to marry, and whom.
- Pregnancy should not endanger women's lives (or lesbian's lives.
- Everyone should be given the information they need in order to protect themselves against unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections.
- Everyone should have access to contraceptives.
- Abortions should be legal, accessible and safe.
- Mothers and infants should be given adequate health care.
The key to development
It was only recently that health and rights connected to sexuality and pregnancy were acknowledged as human rights. The idea still faces fierce opposition. But in the most intimate lies the key to many of the major global challenges today, such as the fight to eradicate poverty, and the struggle to keep the mothers of the world alive.
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Heterosexism and Homophobia
Heterosexism is the devaluation of what is not heterosexual. For example, some individuals believe that being gay is abnormal and something to be pitied or cured, while heterosexuality is the "right" way to be. Others persist in thinking that gays, lesbians and bisexuals are immoral or sick. Yet the American Physiological Association and the American Psychiatric Association declared over two decades ago that homosexuality is not a mental disorder or psychiatric problem. A more subtle form of heterosexism is evident when people assume everyone they meet is straight and eventually wants to marry. Different sexual orientations are treated as if they don't exist, at least "not at my school," church, town, etc.
Homophobia is the irrational fear and dislike of lesbians and gay men. Homophobic jokes, anti-gay graffiti, threats and intimidation as well as assaults against bisexuals, lesbians, and gay men are sad reminders of the fear, bias and hatred in American Culture. Bisexuals face unique discrimination since they are often viewed as outsiders by both gay and straight individuals.
Heterosexism and homophobia are cultural forces that distort perceptions of reality; these must be understood and challenged, along with similar prejudices against class, gender, race, ethnicity, disability, and age.
"Lesbian, gay, bisexual and trangender students need to both know that Bucknell can be both a challenging and supportive environment. The university community is committed to creating a safe space for all students to flourish. It is the responsibility of each of us to help create a safe and welcoming environment for Bucknell community members of all sexual/gender orientations."
Andrew Dunlap, LSW
Psychological Services
Homophobia is the irrational fear and dislike of lesbians and gay men. Homophobic jokes, anti-gay graffiti, threats and intimidation as well as assaults against bisexuals, lesbians, and gay men are sad reminders of the fear, bias and hatred in American Culture. Bisexuals face unique discrimination since they are often viewed as outsiders by both gay and straight individuals.
Heterosexism and homophobia are cultural forces that distort perceptions of reality; these must be understood and challenged, along with similar prejudices against class, gender, race, ethnicity, disability, and age.
"Lesbian, gay, bisexual and trangender students need to both know that Bucknell can be both a challenging and supportive environment. The university community is committed to creating a safe space for all students to flourish. It is the responsibility of each of us to help create a safe and welcoming environment for Bucknell community members of all sexual/gender orientations."
Andrew Dunlap, LSW
Psychological Services
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
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
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