LGBTQ In Asian Countries

Overview

LGBTQ, or (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer), is the term commonly used to describe someone who is not heterosexual. As it encompasses all kinds of sexual preferences and gender identities, it is the term that used to not discriminate against any kinds of people. LGBTQ rights and gender issues in Asia have been a hot topic of debate in the last few decades as countries are becoming more socially liberal and accepting. However, the general consensus in Asian countries is that LGBTQ is still in the process of being socially accepted as a norm. Most countries do not even legally allow same-sex sexual activity. People can be charged with capital punishment in more lenient countries, while some countries, often Muslim nations, punish with the death penalty. Compared to their Western counterparts, LGBTQ freedom is still fairly restricted in Asia and needs reform.

History

Up until the late 90s, most countries in Asia had laws that made it illegal to be in same-sex sexual activities. Gradually, countries in Asia have come to accept such activities. However, as of May 2016, there are still 23 countries that outright ban same-sex sexual activities. Despite the anti-homosexual laws placed on these countries, historians have stated the fact that some countries, for example, China, have had homosexual behavior since ancient times. There is documentation that even emperors in the Han dynasty had regular sexual relationships with male ministers. In fact, homosexuality was a practice of every day life. In Ming Dynasty literature, portrayal of homosexual relationships was common and was one of the most enjoyable and pleasurable experiences. It was documented that homosexuality was just as common as heterosexuality. (Hinsch, 2009).

Pre-colonial India was comparable to ancient China in the sense that it did not see homosexuality in an undesirable way either. The ancient treatise of Arthashastra was created to tell people how to live through statecraft, economic policy and military strategy. There is a section in it where it references a variety of sexual practices, whether it be performed with a man or a woman, and its punishments. Compare to some of the heterosexual acts mentioned in the Arthashastra, homosexual intercourse was actually a relatively minor offence. It is interesting to not that sexual acts between men were punished more severely than women. (Vanita & Kidwai, 2001).

Homophobia

Countries in Asia are still more conservative than the rest of the world. This means that while the LGBTQ community is tolerated, it is done so by putting them in an invisibility cloak. Even then, there is a difference in opinion in the gay liberation movement and transgenders, the latter still frowned upon in most countries.

China

Despite the progressive movement in LGBTQ rights in China, it still faces many challenges in modern day society. In an LGBTQ survey of 18,650 Chinese workers, 18% of males said that they came out to their families compared to 80% which didn't, due to pressures by families. This is an example of how gay rights are not fully supported in China as it is still not a social norm to declare ones sexuality, other than heterosexuality. (Harris, 2013). It was only until recent years that homosexuality was declassified as a mental disorder in the Chinese Society of Psychiatry. Since then, the LGBTQ communities have come together and pushed for equal rights in Chinese society. The government is aware and now provides more resources for AIDS prevention programs, gay rights campaigns and pride parades. However, they still do not officially recognize same-sex marriages. (Cochrane, 2003). LGBTQ members often hold symbolic weddings in public to attract media attention and express their views to protest against the government. In China, there is a phenomenon called "sham marriages". A sham marriage is when a gay man marries a woman without her knowing his sexual preference. This alleviates social and family pressures from the husband while the wife has absolutely no idea. If they do ever find out, incidents, like the professor at Sichuan University who committed suicide because she found out her husband was gay, can happen. The government does not formally address these issues but LGBTQ groups advise that gay men should not intentionally marry into “sham marriages”, as it does not benefit either husband or wife. (Yang, 2012).

India

In present day India, homosexuality is still considered as taboo and sexual activity with the same sex can still be punishable by law. In a largely religious country, homophobia plays apart in Hinduism and its traditional values. While it does not explicitly state that homosexuality is wrongful, it does show an antagonist point of view. Although there has been some debate on whether or not same-sex sexual acts should be decriminalized, the Ministry of Home Affairs has explicitly stated that homosexuality is immoral and should stay illegal. Modern day India still looks down upon the LGBTQ community as they are not as open minded about such topics yet. Violence is not uncommon in India relating to LGBTQ issues. For example, in 2011, two women appealed to court for legal recognition as a same sex-couple. Their families and villages were so against the idea that the two had to be placed under police protection and moved to a place of safety. (Nelson, 2014).

Pro LGBTQ

While most countries are still skeptical on the whole issue regarding the LGBTQ community, several countries have taken initiative in leading LGBTQ rights in Asian countries. These countries are taking a great leap forward into a more progressive global society though tolerance and acceptance.

Taiwan

Taiwan has been considered as the most liberal nation in regards to LGBTQ rights. Whereas same-sex sexual activity is already legal, Taiwan is the country in Asia closest to legalizing same-sex marriage. LGBTQ members are proud to serve in the military and the government is currently in the process of making adoption legal for them too. The government has also passed multiple bills that greatly favor the LGBTQ community that fights for their equality in society. Legislation passed includes ban on discrimination in relation to sexual orientation and work, and ban on discrimination against sexual orientation in education. Social justice issues regarding LGBTQ rights and equality are also mandatory in school curriculum. Teachers are required to educate students on such topics as it teaches them about acceptance and respect. The Taiwanese people were always ahead of time in pursuing LGBTQ rights. The first gay pride parade, the Taiwan Pride of 2003, took place in the Chinese-speaking sphere, in Taipei. With only 1,000 supporters in its inaugural parade, by 2010, the parade attracted more than 30,000 people with a growing media attention. In 2015, recorded attendees peaked at almost 80,000 people! Taiwan is the model nation in Asia in regards to LGBTQ equality and freedom. (McCormick, 2015).

References

1. Cochrane, D. (2013). Policy issues concerning sexual orientation in China, Canada, and the United States. Retrieved November 25, 2017, from https://www.usask.ca/education/documents/profiles/cochrane/policy-panel-remarks.pdf.

2. Harris, D. (2013, July 06). Homosexuality in China. Retrieved November 25, 2017, from https://www.chinalawblog.com/2013/07/homosexuality-in-china.html

3. Hinsch, B. (1992). Passions of the cut sleeve: the male homosexual tradition in China. Berkeley, Calif: University of California Press.

4. McCormick, J. P. (2015, October 31). Asia’s biggest Pride takes place as tens of thousands march in Taipei. Retrieved November 25, 2017, from http://www.pinknews.co.uk/2015/10/31/asias-biggest-pride-takes-place-as-tens-of-thousands-march-in-taipei/

5. Nelson, D. (2011, July 26). India's first married lesbian couple given 24-hour protection. Retrieved November 25, 2017, from http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/asia/india/8662082/Indias-first-married-lesbian-couple-given-24-hour-protection.html

6. Vanita, R., & Kidwai, S. (2000). Same-Sex Love in India: Readings from Literature and History. St. Martin's Press. doi:10.1007/978-1-349-62183-5

7. Yang, C. (2012, July 20). Homowife Chose to Commit Suicide to Blame her Gay Husband. Retrieved November 25, 2017, from http://www.afinance.cn/new/xwpl/201207/470255.html