By LGBTQ+ Rights in Sri Lanka: The Impact of Donald Trump’s Agenda
In Sri Lanka, LGBTQ+ rights are still far from being fully accepted or protected. The country remains deeply conservative, and legal and societal barriers prevent many LGBTQ+ individuals from living openly and without fear of discrimination. While there has been some progress, the election of Donald Trump as U.S. President could potentially reverse the limited advancements made in Sri Lanka, especially as his policies align with more conservative, anti-LGBTQ+ values.
The Legal Landscape in Sri Lanka
In Sri Lanka, same-sex sexual activity remains criminalized under colonial-era laws, specifically Section 365 and Section 365A of the Penal Code. These laws make it illegal to engage in what is defined as “unnatural acts,” which include homosexual relations. While these laws are not always enforced, they contribute to an environment of fear and silence within the LGBTQ+ community. Additionally, Sri Lanka does not recognize same-sex marriages or civil unions, and there are no legal protections for LGBTQ+ people regarding employment, education, or healthcare.
The lack of anti-discrimination laws means LGBTQ+ individuals have little legal recourse if they face harassment or discrimination. This legal framework leaves LGBTQ+ people vulnerable and reinforces the stigma they already experience.
Social Attitudes Toward LGBTQ+ People
Sri Lanka is predominantly conservative, with religion and traditional values strongly influencing societal attitudes. Many people in Sri Lanka still view LGBTQ+ identities as unnatural or immoral, often citing religious teachings. For LGBTQ+ people, this means facing rejection from their families, discrimination in the workplace, and violence. The situation is especially difficult for transgender and gender non-conforming individuals, who face additional challenges.
Activism in Sri Lanka is slowly making progress, but there’s still a long way to go. LGBTQ+ advocacy organizations such as EQUAL GROUND and The Colors Rainbow work tirelessly to raise awareness and provide support, but their efforts are often met with opposition from conservative groups.
Trump’s Anti-LGBTQ+ Agenda
Donald Trump’s presidency is concerning for LGBTQ+ rights, both in the United States and globally. His policies have been widely criticized for rolling back protections for LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly for transgender people. For example, Trump has signed executive orders that restrict transgender rights in the military, education, and healthcare. His administration also worked to ban transgender people from serving in the military and removed protections for transgender students in public schools.
Trump’s views on LGBTQ+ rights have sparked concern among LGBTQ+ advocates, and this could have negative implications for Sri Lanka as well. The influence of the United States on Sri Lanka’s policies cannot be ignored. In the past, Sri Lanka has received foreign aid from countries like the U.S., with some of that aid being tied to the promotion of human rights, including LGBTQ+ rights. If Trump’s administration continues to push conservative, anti-LGBTQ+ agendas, it could discourage future U.S. support for LGBTQ+ rights in Sri Lanka.
Sri Lankan Mothers’ Group Supporting Trump’s Agenda
One concerning development is that some groups in Sri Lanka, like the Mothers’ Movement Sri Lanka (MMSL), have publicly supported Trump’s views. This group has praised Trump for defending what they consider “traditional family values” and opposing the LGBTQ+ agenda. The MMSL has even gone so far as to request that Trump support reversing what they see as the damage caused by LGBTQ+ rights movements and the so-called “woke agenda.”
The MMSL has expressed concern that U.S. foreign aid, which sometimes includes support for LGBTQ+ rights programs, has been used to push the LGBTQ+ agenda onto Sri Lanka. They argue that these programs are unethical and force values that go against Sri Lankan traditions, religions, and cultural norms.
The Setback for LGBTQ+ Rights in Sri Lanka
If Trump’s conservative stance on LGBTQ+ rights continues to influence global policy, it could result in setbacks for LGBTQ+ rights in Sri Lanka. There’s a risk that the progress made by LGBTQ+ activists and organizations could be hindered by increased resistance from conservative groups, emboldened by Trump’s rhetoric. This would further isolate LGBTQ+ individuals and delay any potential legal reforms to protect their rights.
Moreover, the growing support for Trump’s views in Sri Lanka could lead to greater societal pushback against LGBTQ+ rights. It could embolden conservative politicians and religious leaders to oppose any efforts to decriminalize homosexuality or implement anti-discrimination laws. As a result, LGBTQ+ individuals would face even more significant challenges in achieving equality and basic human rights in Sri Lanka.
Seatbacks
While Sri Lanka has made some progress in terms of LGBTQ+ visibility and activism, the election of Donald Trump and his policies could negatively impact this movement. If his conservative views gain more support in Sri Lanka, the country could see setbacks in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights. It is essential for LGBTQ+ advocates in Sri Lanka to continue their efforts to raise awareness and push for legal and social reforms, even as they face challenges both locally and globally.
