UN experts: LGBT older persons at heightened risk of violence and discrimination

 | 
10/27/2023

Following the commemoration of the UN International Day on Older Persons on 1 October, three United Nations rights experts* issued a statement highlighting the alarming situation faced by many LGBT older persons and exhorting UN Member States and other stakeholders to design, pass and implement all measures necessary to address violence and discrimination that disproportionately impact the enjoyment of their human rights. The experts noted that the specific human rights challenges faced by older LGBT persons include leading their lives against the backdrop of negative societal stereotypes and assumptions about their physical and mental health, their sexuality and sex life, their ability to contribute to society, and their worth to their families and communities. Experiences of compounded discrimination and stigma throughout their lives may lead to increased rates of depression, anxiety, dementia, and other mental health conditions in older life, often compounded by social isolation and loneliness if they live in a social environment that is not accepting. They further noted that gendered societal assumptions create significant barriers to access to health, including menopausal and gynaecological care for older lesbians and trans men, differentiated health concerns for black gay men, and prostate enlargement and prostate cancer for trans women; and that stigma and prejudice affect the recognition of needs such as peri-menopausal syndrome, erectile dysfunction, lowered libido, vaginal dryness, painful intercourse, and sexual dysfunction.

Regions: ,

Share this:

Latest Global News

Added on: 11/22/2024
11/21/2024
The Vatican has blocked discussions over women’s rights at the UN climate summit following a row over gay and transgender issues, sources have told …
Added on: 11/22/2024
11/21/2024
In the wake of the U.S. election, crisis lines are surging – an undeniable indication that the most marginalized groups among us are reeling in uncertainty. In …
Added on: 11/22/2024
11/21/2024
CAPE TOWN – The first openly LGBTQ+ candidates to run for office in Namibia say young voters want change even as hate crimes rise …

Explore LGBTQ+ Issues

Other News from ,

Added on: 11/22/2024
The Vatican has blocked discussions over women’s rights at the UN climate summit following a row over gay and transgender issues, sources have told …
Added on: 11/22/2024
A study by Russian LGBT group Coming Out published Wednesday found that 88% of Russian trans people were either planning to or wanted to …
Added on: 11/20/2024
The police chief in Germany’s capital is urging Jews and gay people to “be vigilant” while traversing certain Arab-majority neighborhoods, warning many of them …