The Institute for Participatory Interaction in Development published a report in 2016 on the status of transgender persons in Sri Lanka. It sought to examine access of transgender persons to healthcare. Specifically, for the prevention and treatment of HIV. It detailed a study conducted to ascertain healthcare available to transgender persons in Sri Lanka. The report also analysed laws, policies and other human rights issues which affected transgender persons.
The study reported that transgender sex workers were particularly vulnerable to HIV. It attributed this to stigma and prejudice against gender non-conforming persons. This deterred them from seeking medical care. It noted that there were no laws to recognise and protect sexual minorities. Sri Lanka’s Constitution afforded equality and non-discrimination to all of its citizens. However, it did not list sexual orientation and gender identity as prohibited grounds of discrimination.
This report presented other aspects of transgender persons’ lives in Sri Lanka. This includes their socio-cultural background, behaviour, and access to health services. Among other things, it recommended recognizing sexual orientation and gender identity as prohibited grounds of discrimination under Sri Lanka’s Constitution. It also advocated sensitising healthcare workers, educating transgender persons about HIV and preventing it, and making toilets accessible for the community.
READ FULL REPORT HERE