Lebanon’s Growing Threat to LGBTI Rights: An Assault on Freedom and Equality

Lebanon: Attack on Freedoms Targets LGBTI People

Repressive Legislation; Unlawful Crackdown

In a devastating blow to human rights, Lebanese authorities are engaging in a systematic campaign against the basic freedoms of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex (LGBTI) individuals, according to a coalition of fifteen Lebanese and international organizations known as the Coalition to Defend Freedom of Expression in Lebanon. This crackdown on LGBTI rights is fueled by proposed legislation that explicitly criminalizes same-sex relations between consenting adults and targets anyone who promotes homosexuality.

A Reversal of Progress

The introduction of these anti-LGBTI bills represents a significant reversal of progress in Lebanon. While consensual same-sex conduct is not explicitly criminalized under the Lebanese penal code, Article 534 of the code punishes “any sexual intercourse contrary to the order of nature” with up to one year in prison. However, a series of court rulings between 2007 and 2018 have affirmed that consensual same-sex relations are not illegal. Despite this, nine members of parliament submitted a draft law in July 2023 to repeal Article 534, which subsequently received backlash and online harassment campaigns. In response to this draft law, the Caretaker Culture Minister Mohammed Mortada introduced a bill aimed at combatting the promotion of “sexual deviance/perversion.” The proposed legislation seeks to criminalize any act that promotes or encourages “deviant sexual relations” or the sharing of information related to changing one’s sex or sexual orientation. Another member of parliament, Achraf Rifi, introduced a draft law to criminalize the “promotion of homosexuality” and “sexual deviance.” This draft law would explicitly criminalize any same-sex relations and impose prison sentences for engaging in or promoting such acts.

A Culture of Violence and Repression

The proposed legislation comes in the context of an increasingly hostile environment for LGBTI individuals in Lebanon. An event held in August 2023 at a bar in Beirut, which featured a drag performance, was attacked by a group called Soldiers of God, who physically assaulted the attendees and threatened further violence against LGBTI people. Shockingly, the Internal Security Forces, who arrived at the scene, did not intervene and instead interrogated the bar owner and guests. The lack of arrests and the response from the Minister of Culture, who questioned why security forces did not prevent the bar from “promoting homosexuality,” only exacerbate the culture of violence and repression against LGBTI individuals.

Economic Crisis and Marginalized Groups

The repression of LGBTI rights is occurring against the backdrop of a devastating economic crisis in Lebanon. The economic collapse has pushed over 80% of the population into poverty, with marginalized groups, including LGBTI people, being particularly affected. The Lebanese authorities’ disregard for human rights and their failure to address urgent economic and justice reforms further exacerbate the marginalization of these vulnerable communities.

International and Legal Obligations

The Lebanese government’s attacks on LGBTI people and the erosion of their fundamental rights violate Lebanon‘s constitution and its international obligations. Lebanon‘s constitution guarantees freedom of expression, assembly, association, and equal protection of the law without discrimination. The International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which Lebanon ratified in 1972, also enshrines the right to freedom of expression, assembly, and association. Furthermore, the United Nations Human Rights Committee has made it clear that discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity is prohibited and that individuals must be protected from all forms of discrimination, hate speech, or violence.

Editorial: Upholding Human Rights and Challenging Repressive Legislations

The situation in Lebanon is deeply troubling and demands immediate attention from the international community. The targeting and repression of LGBTI people go against principles of equality, freedom, and dignity that are essential to any just society. All nations, particularly those committed to the protection of human rights, must condemn these acts and pressure the Lebanese government to uphold its obligations under international law.

This crisis also highlights the need for global support and solidarity with the LGBTI community in Lebanon. Civil society organizations, media outlets, and individuals must continue to stand up against repression and discrimination. This includes raising awareness, engaging in advocacy, and ensuring that the voices of LGBTI people are heard.

Advice: Protecting LGBTI Rights

For LGBTI individuals and activists in Lebanon, navigating this hostile environment can be incredibly challenging. Here are some recommendations to promote the protection of LGBTI rights:

1. Build alliances: Collaborate with local and international organizations that promote human rights and LGBTI rights. By forming networks and coalitions, the power to effect change can be amplified.
2. Advocate for legal reform: Continue pushing for legal reform that protects the rights of LGBTI individuals. Engage with lawmakers, civil society, and the international community to raise awareness and build support for legislation that promotes equality and non-discrimination.
3. Document human rights abuses: Report incidents of violence, harassment, and discrimination against LGBTI individuals to human rights organizations, both local and international. Documenting these abuses is crucial for holding perpetrators accountable and raising awareness about the situation in Lebanon.
4. Engage in nonviolent resistance: Peacefully protest repressive legislation and government actions that infringe on the rights of LGBTI people. Nonviolent resistance can be a powerful tool for challenging injustice and promoting social change.
5. Seek support and solidarity: Reach out to local and international LGBTI support organizations for guidance, resources, and assistance. It’s essential to know that you are not alone and that there are networks of people and organizations ready to support and defend the rights of the LGBTI community in Lebanon.

Ultimately, the struggle for LGBTI rights in Lebanon is part of a broader human rights movement. By working together, advocating for change, and demanding equality, we can create a society that respects and upholds the rights of all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

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