The Peruvian government has officially categorized LGBTQ+ individuals including transgender, and nonbinary, as “mentally ill,” a decision made by the Ministry of Health.
The ministry stated that this decree aims to ensure full medical coverage for mental health services within public health systems.
However, the classification has ignited widespread outrage among the LGBTQ+ community with high levels of homophobic, transphobic, and gender-based violence.
LGBTQ+ Activists and advocacy groups also condemned the decision as a significant setback for LGBTQ+ rights in Peru.
Nonetheless, César Vásquez, the current health minister, refrained from commenting on the controversy.
Instead, he has been preoccupied with defending President Dina Boluarte, who is dealing with an investigation regarding her acquisition of expensive jewelry, including a Cartier bracelet valued at £40,000.
The decision also includes categorizing “dual-role transvestitism,” “fetishistic transvestism,” and other gender identity disorders as mental health issues, amending the Essential Health Insurance Plan (PEAS) to reflect these changes.
Percy Mayta-Tristán, a medical researcher at Lima’s Scientific University of the South, criticized the decree, pointing out that it showed a profound lack of understanding of LGBTQ+ issues and could lead to harmful practices like conversion therapy.
This move follows a series of actions that have eroded gender equality efforts in Peru. Recently, references to gender equality were banned from school textbooks, significantly impacting education aimed at preventing domestic violence and femicides.
President Boluarte, who assumed office in 2022 is supported by a congress with a wide ideological spectrum but united by deep social conservatism as they have been active in rolling back reforms and protecting illicit activities such as illegal mining, logging, and the cocaine trade.
