Intersex Asia actively participated in the LGBQTI+ Conference held from September 26 to September 28, 2024, which the Humsafar Trust graciously hosted. This convening brought together a diverse range of voices and perspectives from across the LGBQTI+ community, fostering discussions on important issues affecting individuals within this spectrum. Intersex Asia’s involvement underscored its commitment to promoting awareness, acceptance, and advocacy for intersex rights alongside other sexual and gender minorities. The conference was a vital platform for networking, sharing experiences, and collaboratively strategizing initiatives to advance Intersex Individual’s equality and inclusion within society.
Hiker Chiu, Selvan Antony (Intersex Asia, Taiwan); Esan Regmi (Campaign for Change, Nepal); Mohammed (Intersex Human Rights, India), had a session on the second day (27 September 2024) of the conference titled ‘ Building bridges – Understanding and addressing challenges for Intersex people in Asia’. This session was moderated by Selvan Antony and Mx. Yashwinder Singh (from Pahal Foundation) and paneled by Hiker Chiu, Esan Regmi, and Mohammed.
This session revolved around discussing Intersex issues and challenges and advancing their rights.
The first panelist- Hiker Chiu gave an insightful overview of what Intersex means, elaborating on the variations and their impact on Intersex Individuals. In addition to sharing the personal narratives that illustrated their experiences, Hiker underscored a significant development in the movement: the establishment of Intersex Asia, which aims to unify efforts across the Asia region to promote awareness and advocate for change. Hiker emphasized several fundamental rights that are essential for Intersex Individuals, including; 1) The right to bodily integrity – Ensuring that individuals have control over their own bodies without coercion or harm. 2) The right to physical autonomy – Supporting individuals in making their own choices concerning their physical selves. 3) The right to self-determination – Affirming each person’s ability to define their identity and make independent decisions about their lives.
“In our journey towards equality, we must recognize that intersex individuals deserve not only visibility but also the fundamental rights to bodily integrity, physical autonomy, and self-determination. Our voices are powerful when united, and together we can build bridges to understanding and acceptance across Asia.” Hiker shared in the session.
The second panelist – Esan Regmi, talked about the vision and mission of his organization, Campaign for Change, based in Nepal. He brought attention to the current circumstances faced by Intersex Individuals within the country. Esan emphasized several critical challenges that Intersex individuals experience, including the pressing need for legal recognition that would affirm Intersex Individual’s identities within Nepal’s legal framework. He pointed out that access to essential services remains a significant barrier, further compounded by prevalent social stigma that often marginalizes intersex individuals within their communities. In light of these challenges, Esan outlined strategic priorities aimed at fostering a more supportive environment for intersex individuals in Nepal. This includes advocacy for policy changes to ensure legal recognition, increased access to appropriate healthcare services without prejudice, and educational campaigns to combat social stigma. Through these efforts, Campaign for Change aspires to create an inclusive society where intersex people can thrive with dignity and respect.
Third panelist, Mohammed, not only elaborated on the establishment of their organization but also provided a comprehensive overview of significant historical wins and persistent challenges faced by the community. He highlighted the landmark case of NALSA vs Union of India, where the Supreme Court made a pivotal decision that recognized transgender rights and extended its acknowledgment to intersex individuals. This groundbreaking ruling drew comparisons to similar advancements in countries such as Germany and Australia, which have set precedents for inclusive rights. Mohammed underscored the necessity of informed healthcare practices that respect and cater to the unique needs of these individuals. Lastly, Mohammed stressed the importance of advocacy support to empower intersex individuals and promote awareness about their rights within society.
Overall, this 3-day conference significantly contributed to the experience of the effort that significantly contributed to the efforts of Intersex Asia in raising awareness and visibility regarding intersex related to intersex issues and challenges.
Intersex Asia expresses its gratitude to THE HUMSAFAR TEAM, UNDP – RST, CSHARP, PGIMER, and other Organizers for extending the invitation to Intersex Asia to participate in this enlightening 3-day LGBTQI+ Conference held in India.
