Trans, non-binary, and intersex people in Peru are now classified as “mentally ill” following a decree from the government’s health ministry.
The decree, signed by Peruvian president Dina Boluarte, defines “transsexualism” and “gender identity disorder in children” as mental illnesses.
It also categorises “dual-role transvestitism,” “fetishistic transvestism,” and “other gender identity disorders” under the same bracket of mental illness.
The decree will change language in the Essential Health Insurance Plan (PEAS) to reflect the view of trans and intersex people as a mental health disorder.
Trans groups across Peru have loudly condemned the decision as a step backwards for the country’s already complex relationship with LGBTQ+ rights.
Jheinser Pacaya, director of OutfestPeru, said in a statement posted on X/Twitter that Peru’s trans community will not rest until the decree is repealed.
He continued that the government has “nothing better to do” than to attack trans people with the decree, adding that it comes over 100 years following the decriminalisation of homosexuality in Peru in 1924. »
