Mauritius COUNTRY REPORT Canaries in the Coal Mines an Analysis of Spaces for LGBTI Activism in Mauritius COUNTRY REPORT

canaries in the coal mines An analysis of spaces for LGBTI activism in Mauritius COUNTRY REPORT canaries in the coal mines An analysis of spaces for LGBTI activism in Mauritius COUNTRY REPORT

Postnet Suite 209, Private Bag X31, Saxonwold, 2132, Johannesburg, South Africa www.theotherfoundation.org

Summary...... 2 Strategies Used by LGBTI Groups and Allies...... 22 Country Context...... 4 Needs and Experiences of LGBTI People...... 25 Legislative and Policy Environment...... 6 Desire for Legal Recognition...... 28 The Constitution...... 7 Broad Acceptance, Respect and Dignity...... 28 The Criminal Code...... 7 Social Media...... 29 Protection of Human Rights Act...... 8 Abuse/ Exclusion...... 29 The Equal Opportunities Act...... 8 Better Understanding of LGBTI Communities...... 30 Employment Rights Act...... 9 Support from Non-LGBTI Allies...... 30 National Gender Policy Framework...... 5 Social Inclusion of LGBTI People in Mauritius...... 31 HIV and AIDS Act...... 10 Access to Services...... 31 Civil Code and Civil Status Act...... 10 Key Potential non-LGBTI Allies/ Strategic Entry Universal Periodic Review and Adherence to Points...... 32 International Human Rights...... 11 PILS (Prévention Information Lutte contre le Sida)...... 33 UN Declaration on Sexual Orientation and Gender National Human Rights Commission...... 33 Identity...... 11 Council of Religions...... 34 Public Discourse...... 12 Universal Rights Group...... 34 Angola Malawi Political Narratives...... 13 Diplomatic Missions...... 35 Public Attitudes...... 14 References...... 36 Zambia Mozambique Sexuality Education in Schools...... 14 Media...... 16 Botswana Mauritius The LGBTI Movement: Organizations Advancing the Human Rights of LGBTI People...... 17 Namibia Swaziland Collectif Arc-en-Ciel (CAEC)...... 18 Young Queer Alliance...... 20 Lesotho Zimbabwe VISA G...... 20 canaries in the coal mines – an analysis of spaces for LGBTI activism in Mauritius

This report tracks the evolving experiences of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex (LGBTI) summary human rights movement in Mauritius. It highlights factors that have led to disparate sexual minority groups transcending legislative barriers and socio- cultural intolerance. It also engages with intersectional approaches to strengthening and expanding the struggle for LGBTI human rights and social recognition in Mauritius.

In multi-ethnic and multicultural Mauritian society, the factors that have led to the formation of the LGBTI movement and the forging of queer consciousness have been governed by cultural, religious, class and equity issues that have shaped the lives of ABOUT THE AUTHOR LGBTI people. Given the strong influence of religion and ethnicity in Mauritian politics and policy making, the LGBTI movement has had to lean on external factors such as donor This country report was written for the support to legitimate and strengthen its lobby. Other Foundation by Philip Browne informed by engagement with individuals The success of collaborative efforts of LGBTI groups during this period highlights the and organizations in Mauritius. Philip power of collaboration to maintain, extend and expand gains made, especially in a plural Browne has worked extensively across society that is governed by different value systems that have been obstacles to achieving southern and eastern Africa with key LGBTI human rights, and the social inclusion of sexual and gender minorities. populations affected by HIV/ AIDS. He is South African and has more than 15 years of research and monitoring and evaluation experience in the public health, HIV/ AIDS, and development fields. The production of the report was supported by George Murumba and benefited from editorial contributions given by Mark Gevisser. The final text of the report was edited by Sarita Ranchod and Sonja Boezak from Under the Rainbow. 3

country report: Mauritius country report: Mauritius canaries in the coal mines – an analysis of spaces for LGBTI activism in Mauritius

Since independence in 1968, Mauritius has developed into a stable multi-ethnic democracy with regular free Despite several elections, a diversified economy and a positive human significant legislative country rights record. The situation for LGBTI people on the island and policy shifts in is, however, less clear. Mauritius in recent

Despite several significant legislative and policy shifts in Mauritius in recent years, years, organizations organizations advocating for LGBTI human rights continue to face significant challenges advocating for LGBTI context in their attempts to exercise their fundamental rights to assemble, associate and express themselves. Such challenges are particularly formidable when they come in the form of human rights continue legislation, regulations and official policy prescriptions, many of which continue not only to prevent LGBTI individuals from achieving full equality, but also prevent civil society to face significant organizations (CSOs) from advocating on their behalf. challenges in their The situation for LGBTI people in Mauritius is, however, not completely constrained attempts to exercise and there are clear shifts on several fronts that bode well for change. Despite the criminalization of sodomy, Mauritius is one of the few African nations to explicitly protect their fundamental its citizens from employment discrimination based on sexual orientation. Young people are rights to assemble, clearly initiating change, for example through the Youth Parliament which recently stated that “This house believes that LGBT rights in Mauritius are legally complicated and vague” associate and express and that legislative change needed to happen.1 themselves. Through the national HIV response there is recognition that sexual transmission of HIV within the men who have sex with men (MSM) population, and into the general population, remains a driver of further spread of HIV.2 This has resulted in increased mapping of different LGBTI communities and has facilitated the identification of sites and size estimations of particularly hidden populations. This effectively allows policy makers and programmers to target the MSM/TG population for better planning and programming of essential services.3

In 2011 Mauritius supported South Africa’s historic resolution on sexual orientation and gender identity at the UN Human Rights Council4. Since 2006 Mauritius has hosted a Gay Pride event in the small town of Rose Hill, on the southern end of the island. In 2016, the event was held at a popular waterfront precinct of Port Louis, the capital, creating greater LGBTI visibility. 5

1. Youth United in Voluntary Action, 2015, https://yuvamauritius.com/2015/10/01/lgbt-rights-in-mauritius-mauritius-youth-parliament- session-2/ 2. UNAIDS, Country Progress Report 2015 Republic of Mauritius, p. 10. 3. Ibid, p. 31. 1 4. Equality Network. 2014. LGBTI People of the Commonwealth, p. 22. country report: Mauritius canaries in the coal mines – an analysis of spaces for LGBTI activism in Mauritius

2.1 The Constitution Sodomy cases that Article 3 of the Constitution of Mauritius (b) freedom of conscience, of expression, have reached the legislative and (1968) guarantees a set of fundamental of assembly and association and freedom rights and freedoms for the individual, to establish schools; and courts have almost stating that: (c) the right of the individual to protection exclusively involved for the privacy of his home and other “It is hereby recognised and declared that property and from deprivation of property in Mauritius there have existed and shall heterosexual persons, without compensation, and the provisions policy environment continue to exist without discrimination especially as an of this chapter shall have effect for by reason of race, place of origin, political the purpose of affording protection to opinions, colour, creed or sex, but subject aggravating factor in those rights and freedoms subject to to respect for the rights and freedoms of such limitations of that protection as divorce cases others and for the public interest, each are contained in those provisions, being and all of the following human rights and limitations designed to ensure that the fundamental freedoms – enjoyment of those rights and freedoms (a) the right of the individual to life, liberty, by any individual does not prejudice the security of the person and the protection rights and freedoms of others or the of the law; public interest.”

2.2 The Criminal Code

Under Section 250 of the Criminal have reached the courts have almost Code of 1838, sodomy is criminalized exclusively involved heterosexual persons, irrespective of sexual orientation, stating especially as an aggravating factor in that “any person who is guilty of the divorce cases.5 Authorities rarely use crime of sodomy or bestiality shall be the sodomy statute against same-sex liable to penal servitude for a term not couples, unless one of the partners cites exceeding 5 years”. Sodomy cases that sodomy in the context of sexual assault.

5. Human Dignity Trust, 2015, http://www.humandignitytrust.org/uploaded/Map/Country_Reports/Mauritius.pdf

2 country report: Mauritius canaries in the coal mines – an analysis of spaces for LGBTI activism in Mauritius canaries in the coal mines – an analysis of spaces for LGBTI activism in Mauritius

as to whether the person is engaged in It is also to be noted that the alleged 2.3 Protection of Human Rights Act homosexual activity. If a person answers discriminator has undertaken to adopt the Faced with a in the affirmative, the latter is permanently Commission’s recommendation to the Discrimination complaint to the EOC The Protection of Human Rights Act was Under the Act, allegations of disqualified from donating blood. [...] effect that since homosexuality remains “includes affording passed in 1998, and paved the way for discrimination are to be dealt with by a criminal offence under our laws, the in 2013, the Ministry the establishment of the National Human the Equal Opportunities Commission Extensive research was carried out by the questionnaire will give the homosexual different treatment of Health removed a Rights Commission (NHRC) to promote (EOC).7 The Act was amended in 2012 Commission in this case following which donor an explicit assurance that any to different workers and protect human rights and review to align the legislation with the country’s it was concluded that the question as information furnished therein shall be controversial measure the factors or difficulties that inhibit the international human rights obligations. couched on the questionnaire amounts confidential and shall not be used in any attributable wholly enjoyment of human rights.6 to discrimination on the ground of sexual court proceedings.10” requiring blood donors orientation [...] or mainly to their The Mauritius Human Rights Report for to report their sexual The alleged discriminator has by way 2014 noted that the Young Queer Alliance respective descriptions orientation.9 2.4 The Equal Opportunities Act of conciliation agreed to reform its (YQA) group reported that Ministry of by age, race, colour, policy and reframe the question on Health officials cancelled a blood donation The Equal Opportunities Act was > That sexual orientation is not the questionnaire. This has now been event in Rose Hill in November due to the caste, creed, sex, passed in 2008 and was designed to recognized under the Constitution as done and the question now targets officials’ reluctance to collaborate with an prohibit discrimination on the grounds a prohibited ground of discrimination, sexual orientation, the sexual activity considered as risky, LGBTI organization.11 of status, or relating to employment, whereas the Equal Opportunities Act and not a particular group of persons. education, attaining qualifications for does. HIV status, religion, a profession, trade or occupation, the political opinion, place provision of goods, services, facilities or Faced with a complaint to the EOC in 2.5 Employment Rights Act accommodation, the disposal of property, 2013, the Ministry of Health removed a of origin, national Section 4 of the Employment Rights religion, political opinion, place of origin, companies, partnerships, sociétés, controversial measure requiring blood 9 Act of 2008 deals with discrimination national extraction or social origin, which extraction or social registered associations, sports, clubs and donors to report their sexual orientation. and occupation and stipulates in 4 (1) has the effect of nullifying or impairing access to public premises.8 The EOC’s 2014 Report references a origin, which has the case that dealt directly with discrimination (a) that no worker should be treated in a equality of opportunity or treatment in 12 An EOC Report provides detailed analysis against LGBTI people, noting the discriminatory manner by his employer employment or occupation.” effect of nullifying of the Blood Donors Association and following regarding blood donations by in his employment or occupation. notes the following: homosexuals: Discrimination “includes affording different or impairing equality treatment to different workers attributable of opportunity > That homosexuality, although “As part of the blood screening process, wholly or mainly to their respective implicitly recognized in other those who wish to donate blood are descriptions by age, race, colour, caste, or treatment in enactments, remains proscribed required to fill in a questionnaire. One part creed, sex, sexual orientation, HIV status, under the criminal laws of Mauritius; of the questionnaire puts the question employment or occupation.” 8 9

6. Protection of Human Rights Act, 1998, p. 6. 10. Equal Opportunities Commission, Report 2014, p. 29. 7. Following an amendment to the Equal Opportunities Act Section 27(3) made provision for the establishment of an Equal Opportunities 11. United States Department of State, Mauritius 2014 Human Rights Report, p. 16. Commission to work towards the elimination of discrimination, and the promotion of equality of opportunity and good relations between 12. Employment Rights Act. 2008, p. 11. persons of different status. country report: Mauritius 8. Equal Opportunities Act, 2008, p. 8. country report: Mauritius 9. Freedom House, https://freedomhouse.org/report/freedom-world/2015/mauritius canaries in the coal mines – an analysis of spaces for LGBTI activism in Mauritius canaries in the coal mines – an analysis of spaces for LGBTI activism in Mauritius

Without making explicit 2.6 National Gender Policy Framework 2.9 Universal Periodic Review and Adherence to Although same-sex reference to the The revised draft National Gender Without making explicit reference to International Human Rights relationships are Policy Framework (2008) states that the gendered inequalities facing LGBTI The Universal Periodic Review (UPR) Equal Opportunities Bill was introduced gendered inequalities “development actors and practitioners people the policy encourages the creation not recognized in processes shows that, as a country in November 2008, incorporating the cannot assume a priori, that they are of spaces for questioning and rethinking heavily reliant on external investment, grounds of discrimination covered facing LGBTI people treating everybody the same, without assumptions, for challenging existing Mauritius it was, the government of Mauritius is sensitive under Sections 3 and 16 of the distinction of sex, age, family status, norms, stereotypes, double standards the policy encourages to criticism of its human rights standing Constitution, as well as age, pregnancy, nevertheless, one of colour, religion, ethnic affiliation and and cultures of silence, for addressing from partner countries, big business mental and physical disability and the creation of spaces sexual orientation.” The policy stresses controversial issues such as sexual the 66 signatories and international NGOs. From 2006 to sexual orientation in areas dealing with that lack of understanding in this and reproductive rights, for changing 2012 the Government passed legislation employment, education, the provision of for questioning regard can lead to a violation of human values and mindsets, for dialogue and at the Human Rights and established statutory bodies that accommodation, goods, services and rights and a state of disempowerment, negotiation about such gender-responsive and rethinking have significantly strengthened the other facilities, sports, the disposal of Council that supported exclusion, deprivation and injustice.13 transformation.14 assumptions, for country’s human rights apparatus and immovable property, admission to private the UN declaration on extended rights to a broader section of clubs and premises open to members of challenging existing 2.7 HIV and AIDS Act the population including sexual minorities. the public.17 sexual orientation and norms, stereotypes, Stating a commitment to addressing gender identity. The HIV and AIDS Act came into effect or continued employment, including the issue of sexual orientation, the double standards and in 2006 with the purpose of providing penalties for HIV discrimination. Section “for measures for the prevention and 3 (1) of the Act states that “any person cultures of silence, containment of HIV and AIDS”. The act who is HIV-positive or has AIDS shall 2.10 UN Declaration on Sexual Orientation for addressing includes an affirmation of confidentiality not be considered as having a disability and Gender Identity and human rights, guaranteeing those or incapacity by any enactment and his controversial issues living with HIV equal rights to dignity, status or presumed status shall not be Although same-sex relationships are and Gay Alliance (ILGA) to the UN. employment and health care. The Act used as a ground to discriminate against not recognized in Mauritius it was, The Collectif Arc-en-Ciel (CAEC) noted such as sexual and also makes it illegal to impose HIV that person.”15 nevertheless, one of the 66 signatories at that this action followed “considerable reproductive rights, for testing as a precondition for employment the Human Rights Council that supported socio-political pressure that ensued the UN declaration on sexual orientation from the endorsing of the June 17th changing values and and gender identity. The relevance of 2011 resolution.”18 Heavily influenced by 2.8 Civil Code and Civil Status Act this decision was to ensure that LGBTI electoral processes that bring different mindsets, for dialogue people were to be protected from any political groupings into power, Mauritius and negotiation about Regulations regarding marriage in that “the spouses shall on marriage adopt kind of discrimination with the constitution was one of the signatories supporting Mauritius are determined by the Civil the surname of the husband after which guaranteeing the right of individuals to a the UN Declaration on Human Rights, such gender-responsive Code (1870, last amended 2016) and the the wife may add her maiden surname private life. Despite taking this proactive Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity at 10 Civil Status Act (1981). The regulations or the surname of her predeceased step, the country abstained from the Human Rights Council Seventeenth 11 transformation 16 are heteronormative and limits marriage to spouse”. voting on a subsequent decree on the Session in 2011. a man and a woman. Section 4 (1) states, accreditation of the International Lesbian

13. National Gender Policy Framework, 2008, p. 15. 17. Human Rights Council, National Report Submitted in Accordance with Paragraph 15 (A) of the Annex to Human Rights Council Resolution 14. Ibid., p. 18. 5/1, p. 17. 15. HIV and AIDS Act, 2006, p. 3. 18. CAEC, 2015, Strategic Framework 2105-2018, p. 6. 16. Civil Code, 1870, p. 10. country report: Mauritius country report: Mauritius canaries in the coal mines – an analysis of spaces for LGBTI activism in Mauritius

Public discourse on SOGI are shaped within the tensions that exist between progressive and conservative sectors The political narrative of a multi-ethnic, multi-religious society. Inward- on LGBTI rights in public looking public mores and morality about sex, sexuality Mauritius swings from and prescribed codes of conduct and practices are cautious endorsement framed by rigid moral values espoused by faith-based of sexual minority organizations, political parties and voluntary ethno- rights to indifference discourse socio-cultural organizations.19 and inaction.

3.1 Political Narratives

The political narrative on LGBTI rights Mauritian legislation in order to identify in Mauritius swings from cautious the laws and practices that discriminated endorsement of sexual minority rights against persons because of their to indifference and inaction. The 2011 sexual orientation and gender identity. Declaration Mauritius supported was Further to this, a Select Committee based on the annual report of the comprising Members of the Parliament United Nations High Commissioner for (MPs) were scheduled to analyze the Human Rights on discriminatory laws recommendations of the UNHRC and and practices, and acts of violence propose changes in legislation so that against individuals based on their sexual Mauritius could ensure its compliance orientation and gender identity. In 2011, with international commitments.20 the Prime Minister announced that the UN Human Rights Committee would review

19. Rambaree, K. 2011, Young People and Cybersex in a Sexually Conservative Society: A Case Study from Mauritius, p. 172. 20. Gender Links, 2011, http://genderlinks.org.za/barometer-newsletter/mauritius-signs-the-un-resolution-on-human-rights-sexual-orientation- and-gender-equality-2011-08-31/ 3 country report: Mauritius canaries in the coal mines – an analysis of spaces for LGBTI activism in Mauritius canaries in the coal mines – an analysis of spaces for LGBTI activism in Mauritius

subjects like Health, Physical Education, On her mission to Mauritius in 2011 the 3.2 Public Attitudes Integrated Science and Biology.23 UN Special Rapporteur on the Sale of Children, Child Prostitution and Child The move to introduce of respondents 51% The public are either actively opposed of “Mauritian culture” as part of the The MoECHR is in the process of Pornography gave a salutary warning comprehensive to homosexuality, or are indifferent. The “homosexuality as un-African” narrative. finalizing newly developed guidelines on to the government by noting that while Afrobarometer survey of Mauritian public This rationale has been paving the way comprehensive sexuality education (CSE), sex education had been included in the sexual education in perceptions published in 2015 indicates for discrimination and the criminalization aligned with the UNESCO international school curriculum in Mauritius “in the Mauritian schools has this trend, with 51% of respondents of SOGI. Mauritian culture presents itself technical guide on CSE, and is also absence of truly effective sex education stating that they would be opposed to as homogenous. That the Afrobarometer coordinating a sex education writing programmes, the proliferation of images faced the challenge having LGBTI neighbours and 45% of data shows that 45% of people panel for learning resources for students and videos available through information respondents stating that they would not interviewed are indifferent to LGBTI at secondary level, along with a teacher’s and communication technologies may of conservative 21 care either way. people, suggests either a shift in opinions guide. In line with its National Curriculum serve as the basis for children’s first ideas cultural values and and beliefs, or an already-existing Framework the Ministry is also working about sexuality and sexual behaviour, Along with religious and cultural tolerance and acceptance of same- on the integration of Human Rights increasing their risk of early sexualization, sensitivity around sex conservatism the other argument sexuality. Education into the school curricula at mimicking behaviour, or becoming victims voiced against the protection of LGBTI state they would be opposed to having primary level. of this behaviour.”24 There is a push and sexuality, and rights is that homosexuality is not part LGBTI neighbours, and for the education system to make sex The move to introduce comprehensive reluctance by teachers education programmes available that sexual education in Mauritian schools provide information on healthy sexual to teach topics with 3.3 Sexuality Education in Schools has faced the challenge of conservative development, safe sex and reproduction, cultural values and sensitivity around and that emphasize gender equality, which they themselves The Protection of Human Rights Act education should be cross-curricular at sex and sexuality, and reluctance by of respondents self-respect, empowerment and respect 45% states that the government must “assist the primary level and that the Mauritius teachers to teach topics with which they are uncomfortable. for others. in the formulation of programmes for the Institute of Education would need to themselves are uncomfortable. teaching of, and research into, human consider this element when revisiting rights and take part in their execution the National Curriculum Framework. At in schools, universities and professional the primary level a range of sexuality circles.”22 The Minister of Education, education-related concepts, such as Culture and Human Resources (MoECHR) safe and unsafe touch and sexual health, announced the introduction of sexuality including HIV and AIDS education, education as a stand-alone subject in are taught under the subject Health both primary and secondary schools and Physical Education. At secondary in 2014. According to the Ministry the level sex education is a stand-alone aim was to give students appropriate subject on the time table with structured state they would not care either way access to sexuality education and sexual programmes and a standardization of and reproductive health services so that teaching materials. A range of sex-related 14 they can make informed choices in life. concepts have been mainstreamed 15 The Ministry proposed that sexuality across the curriculum, particularly in

21. Times of Swaziland (8 April 2012) Pastors say God said no man should have sex with another man 24. Human Rights Council. 2011. Report of the Special Rapporteur on the sale of children, child prostitution and child pornography Mission to 22. Interview with Thuli Rudd (10 April 2016) Mauritius, p. 6. 23. UNESCO. 2015. Comprehensive Sexuality Education in Teacher Training in Eastern and Southern Africa (Mauritius Report), p. 105. country report: Mauritius country report: Mauritius canaries in the coal mines – an analysis of spaces for LGBTI activism in Mauritius

The media in Mauritius 3.4 Media is emerging as a “At a time when interest in the yearly rainbow parade is fading, the first anti- homophobia campaign ever to be carried out in Mauritius breathes new life into significant ally for the the movement. Weekly met some members of the new, unapologetic generation of the LGBTI Mauritian gays who have lent their faces to the billboards, hoping that their love will LGBTI movement. soften hearts and open up minds.” Newspaper Headline

The media in Mauritius is emerging as a ensures that its journalists can write significant ally for the LGBTI movement. in ways that avoid any explicit or movement: LGBTI people had remained largely implicit homophobia or transphobia. A absent from public discourse in Mauritius, sample of recent newspaper articles on organizations advancing the human rights and where there was coverage, it was LGBTI issues shows the need to avoid often negative, using discriminatory harmful reporting on homosexuality or or stereotypical language, and failing sensationalizing the lives of transgender of LGBTI people to incorporate the voices of those people. affected. There has, however, been a move away from this type of journalism, La Sentinelle ran an investigative series with the media having become more of articles about sex education in schools progressive and more open to covering that demonstrated how the Catholic LGBTI issues in a positive light.25 The Church has played a significant role in media appear to be more concerned the development of the curriculum. In about violations of all human rights. As an article published on May 31st 2012 one editor noted this “feeds into the by the online Mauritian newspaper Le ethos of the newspaper as one cannot Mauricien, a CAEC representative stated have a modern society if there is still that the subject of homosexuality had discrimination.”26 But because Mauritius “started to be less taboo”. The LGBTI does not have a press ombudsperson magazine Têtu reported that some or a Freedom of Information Act, media families confined their children to prevent houses remain cautious in their reporting them from having same-sexual sex. The of more controversial issues such as Indian Ocean Times reported on a Gay homosexuality. Pride event noting that “homosexuals as well as heterosexuals were hand in Increasingly newspapers expose their hand, in a rainbow procession, walking 16 journalists to sensitization training together to fight against the homophobia, around human rights issues to inform that gangrene, in the shadow of Mauritian their reporting. The Weekly magazine society.” (June 2013)

25. This perspective was shared by the editor-in-chief of the magazine “Weekly” 26.Ibid. country report: Mauritius 4 canaries in the coal mines – an analysis of spaces for LGBTI activism in Mauritius canaries in the coal mines – an analysis of spaces for LGBTI activism in Mauritius

Given its size, there are relatively few organizations > CAEC completed the first national > CAEC has a private sector project awareness campaign in 2015 (using on using the Employment Rights Improved data working to address LGBTI human rights issues in billboard, digital, radio spots, press Act as a strategic entry point in Working with the collection would Mauritius. Those that do exist are working to advance and TV) to defend the right to be and shifting attitudes and policy around media has extended the right to love. Key personalities homosexuality. provide a clearer recognition of human rights based on sexual orientation were asked to wear CAEC t-shirts to working with high- with the “I love” slogan and to pose > CAEC has been reaching out to perspective on levels and gender identity at the national level. They promote for photographs while holding their school-going adolescents, especially visibility celebrities of discrimination and the articulation of clear international SOGI norms, and personal statement on why they during project-related community and opinion leaders support universal love. Photos were consultations where they establish homophobia faced by mobilize domestic pressure when the government fails shared on Facebook, and the CAEC youth groups for young LGBTI in the entertainment the LGBTI community, to live up to these standards. They are also creating website.27 CAEC forged a partnership people. The discussions focus world, in sport, and in with a local women’s magazine, on bullying in schools and any local networks to ensure groups and individuals working Essentielle, to showcase a series other forms of explicit and implicit the private sector, to on LGBTI human rights do so as part of an effective, of portraits of women (famous and discriminations based on sexual unknown) supporting the initiative. orientation. support LGBTI human coordinated national movement. > CAEC is engaging with law > 2015 CAEC organized workshops rights issues. 4.1 Collectif Arc-en-Ciel (CAEC) reform, focusing on strategies for with different media institutions to decriminalizing the sodomy law and sensitize them on how to cover LGBTI-related matters fairly. The Collectif Arc-en-Ciel (CAEC) is the CAEC has benefitted significantly from drafting an action plan to take the issue forward. primary LGBTI organization in Mauritius. a recent Global Fund grant for HIV > Working with the media has extended Established in 2005, and registered prevention interventions to scale up > CAEC recognizes the transgender to working with high-visibility as an association. CAEC’s mission is prevention activities: the provision of community is further marginalized, celebrities and opinion leaders in to address homophobia and all forms free medical consultations for all LGBTI particularly regarding medical the entertainment world, in sport, of discrimination based on sexual people, and a peer educator programme and psychosocial support for and in the private sector, to support orientation. A significant part of its geared to MSM and transgender people gender transition, and for hormone LGBTI human rights issues. Recently work is advocacy, information-sharing with prevention messaging, counselling replacement therapy and sex opinion leaders have been speaking and movement building, designed to and advice. reassignment surgery. CAEC about LGBTI issues in a positive light. facilitate a “culture shift” to change public provides support for transgender While there are no local TV shows attitudes and assumptions. CAEC is CAEC has achieved several important people to develop competencies that feature ‘gay’ themes, such also working to improve research on gains including: to deal with their situations, and programming is available through LGBTI populations for evidence-based > Coordinating the annual Gay Pride have created support groups for international channels. programming. Improved data collection event, that has been held since 2006 transgender people. would provide a clearer perspective on to coincide with the International 18 levels of discrimination and homophobia Day Against Homophobia and 19 faced by the LGBTI community, Transphobia (IDAHOT). It has grown particularly in relation to suicide, rape, in impact year by year, from a small- addiction, depression, and the overall town event to the high-profile Port

wellbeing of LGBTI people. Louis Waterfront. 27.http://www.collectifarcenciel.org/le-i-love-project/

country report: Mauritius country report: Mauritius canaries in the coal mines – an analysis of spaces for LGBTI activism in Mauritius canaries in the coal mines – an analysis of spaces for LGBTI activism in Mauritius

individuals in self-management, personal smallest typology of key populations in 4.2 Young Queer Alliance empowerment and entrepreneurship to Mauritius. The report stressed that not better equip them for self-employment. all transgender populations in Mauritius One of the major The Young Queer Alliance (YQA), a youth- YQA is in an advanced stage of In part this approach emerged from a were involved in sex work, and that the constraints for led organization, founded in 2014, was establishing a shelter for young LGBTI concern that many transgender people overall transgender population would be established primarily to support, empower people rejected by their families, or who are self-stigmatizing and may not even higher than the numbers presented in the transgender and protect young LGBTI people between have run into difficulties with substance understand their own sexuality in a report.30 the ages of 14 and 29. In 2014, YQA abuse. The shelter is to serve those in way that can inform positive decision- programming is that was a sub-recipient of a Global Fund need, while they find other means of making.29 Following the creation and strengthening there is little reliable Grant to enable the organization to supporting themselves. of homophobic laws in several African scale-up its activities working with MSM. One of the major constraints for states, the African Commission on Human data in Mauritius YQA provides safe spaces where LGBTI YQA has, through members and allies transgender programming is that there and Peoples Rights issued a resolution people can meet and share experiences. created several videos on LGBTI issues is little reliable data in Mauritius on calling for the protection of the human on transgender YQA’s primary networking tool is social featuring soundtracks in Creole. It has transgender individuals or the size of the rights of LGBTI persons. At the 55th individuals or the size media platforms including a Facebook facilitated the production of a video transgender population. A 2014 mapping session of the Commission, members page that provides a virtual meeting entitled Equality for All that portrays and size estimation survey undertaken called for an end to acts of violence and of the transgender space for members. discriminations based on sexual by the Ministry of Health and Quality of abuse because “human rights violations orientation, gender, sex, HIV status, Life mapped all geographical locations continue to be committed on individuals population. During 2016, YQA and the National AIDS disability and age. They have collaborated where transgender sex workers (TGSWs) in many parts of Africa because of their Secretariat trained 80 inspectors of the with others to produce the first LGBTI- look for clients, and estimated a total actual or imputed sexual orientation or Mauritius Police Force (MPF) on SOGI themed song with Creole lyrics in number of 1,038 TGSWs, which is the gender identity.” and human rights.28 Mauritius, and in 2015 organized a poster competition with the theme “Equality” YQA is in the process of setting up a for young people aged 15 to 27 to residential programme on human rights encourage young people from diverse and leadership for LGBTI and non-LGBTI backgrounds to depict their emotions, groups. aspirations, wishes and ideals for a better and more equitable society.

4.3 VISA G

VISA G was established in 2011 to Most transmen are poorly educated, do meet the needs of transgender people, not have access to decent employment, although currently the organization only and many are sex workers. There is works with transmen. VISA G receives anecdotal evidence that transgender 20 funding through the Global Fund, with individuals are increasingly engaged in 21 its current programme focusing on legal drug use. VISA G focuses on providing support and empowerment of transmen. training and skills for transgender

28.https://youngqueeralliance.wordpress.com/2016/04/28/training-with-members-of-the-mauritius-police-force-on-sexual-orientation-and- 29. This point was raised by Sonia Hippolyte during discussions with the researcher. gender/ 30. Programmatic Mapping and Size Estimation of Key Populations in Mauritius, 2014, p. 66.

country report: Mauritius country report: Mauritius canaries in the coal mines – an analysis of spaces for LGBTI activism in Mauritius

The approach of LGBTI organizations have been shaped by a recognition that providers of social and community Work is being carried services such as education, health, policing and justice out with the police strategies often discriminate. Interventions are directed at the department to set up used by LGBTI groups and allies following sectors: a unit that specializes > Education: Working with the national Health and Quality of Life and other in providing help and Ministry of Education and Human health providers such as PILS32 to support to victims of Resources, Tertiary Education and address gaps in the provision of Scientific Research to address sexual and reproductive health and discrimination based policy gaps that compromise LGBTI psychosocial services to LGBTI people’s access to education, work people, aimed specifically at MSM on sexual orientation, with educational institutions to ensure and transgender people. as is already the case the Student Behaviour Policy is adhered to, in particular regarding > Access to Justice: Working with the for victims of domestic its ‘Principles of Best Practice’ Mauritius Human Rights Commission, violence. which state that a positive school the Ministry of Justice and Human culture and climate is welcoming of Rights, and the Equal Opportunities difference and diversity, supportive Commission to promote a rights- and based on inclusivity, free from based approach to managing cases any form of violence, coercion of discrimination and human rights and discrimination, and promotes abuses against LGBTI people. respectful interpersonal relationships > Social Protection: Work is across the school community.31 being carried out with the police There are also efforts to address department to set up a unit that issues such as cyber-bullying and specializes in providing help and harassment of LGBTI people through support to victims of discrimination the internet and social media. based on sexual orientation, as > Health: Working with the National is already the case for victims of AIDS Secretariat in the Ministry of domestic violence.

31. Ministry of Education and Human resources, Tertiary Education and Scientific Research. 2015. Student Behaviour Policy, p.8 32. PILS - Prévention Information et Lutte contre le Sida - works on the HIV response in Mauritius, and was founded in 1996. Its goal is to provide a support structure for people living with HIV. Since 2012, PILS is the PR of the Global Fund for the Fight against AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, and since 2013, member of Coalition PLUS.. 5 country report: Mauritius canaries in the coal mines – an analysis of spaces for LGBTI activism in Mauritius

Alongside these interventions are the Christian, Hindu and Muslim faith programmes aimed at engaging with communities are willing to engage A key element in opinion shapers at both national and local with LGBTI advocates, the general LGBTI strategy is levels: position across the faiths remains to ‘normalize’ the > Religious Leaders: CAEC antagonistic. highlighted the need to better the needs and > Private Sector: In response to analyze under what conditions discourse around advocacy and outreach done by religious traditions form a barrier to LGBTI groups, many local and homosexuality the achievement of social justice, foreign companies are increasingly and under which circumstances willing to lend both in-kind and direct and the lives of it can be used as a resource financial support to initiatives such as for social transformation. The experiences sexual minorities the annual Gay Pride event. organization is harnessing multi-faith of LGBTI people: social in/ exclusion by positioning it understandings through dialogue A key element in LGBTI strategy is firmly within the to shape the way religious leaders to ‘normalize’ the discourse around and communities interpret religious homosexuality and the lives of sexual constitutional dogma to include LGBTI human minorities by positioning it firmly within and human rights rights. In discussion with the Council the constitutional and human rights of Religions it was clear, however, commitments of the country. commitments of the that while certain groupings within country.

country report: Mauritius 6 canaries in the coal mines – an analysis of spaces for LGBTI activism in Mauritius canaries in the coal mines – an analysis of spaces for LGBTI activism in Mauritius

Sexual minorities live in tightly-knit ethnic and religious At the social level, the dynamics of LGBTI Transgender people are marginalized both lives are complex and challenging.37 The socially and in terms of access to health Ongoing challenges for communities that are generally conservative and socio-cultural environment means that care. There are few endocrinologists in It is extremely difficult the LGBTI community intolerant of sexual diversity. Discussions with groups of family networks can be more powerful Mauritius and none have the requisite for lesbian women than the state in regulating sexual knowledge or skills to work with relate to socio-legal young LGBTI people and other sympathetic non-LGBTI identities and expressions. Many gay men transgender individuals. Transgender to live openly, and ambiguities where choose to live heterosexually, marrying people struggle to find work and they are confronted youth demonstrated the constraints and vulnerabilities women, and having relationships with many are involved in sex work. Those homosexuality is that affect the lives of LGBTI people. other men in secret. This increases the transgender individuals who have access with significant risk of HIV and STI infections within sexual to resources may travel to Reunion for not illegal but where The following testimony appears to be MSM and transgender individuals networks, as well as the possibility of hormone therapy, or Thailand or Malaysia expectations and identifying oneself indicative of the experiences of sexual described problems with police accusing blackmail. for reassignment surgery. pressure around minorities in Mauritius: “I was indeed them, and in some cases detaining Bisexuality is generally hidden from the There is a view that family acceptance of as LGBTI can directly most shocked and aghast to see a hell them, due to possession of syringes or marriage, children broader LGBTI community, and the transgender people is greater than for gay hole like Mauritius, posted on your site. I condoms, or subjecting them (and their result in discrimination prevailing view is that few MSM view or lesbian individuals. There is no available and managing a was born there, sadly enough, raised up residences) to searches due to previous themselves as bisexual. It is extremely data on the number of intersex people in there, sadly enough, and above all was arrests for drug use or sex work. and prejudice. difficult for lesbian women to live openly, Mauritius and CAEC reports they have home. There are cases gay there, tragically and traumatically and they are confronted with significant had no contact with intersex individuals. enough. Let’s say that Mauritius ruined There were also reports of violence where lesbian girls expectations and pressure around my life, as I had to flee the place as a gay towards transgender women, including marriage, children and managing a home. The experience of living in a “shadow and women have been teenager. Mauritius ruined my education from police, especially towards those There are cases where lesbian girls and world” is experienced by transgender and prospects of a good career. I was operating as sex workers. The sodomy forced into marriage women have been forced into marriage or individuals as psychologically stressful, lucky enough to come from a well-off provision of the Criminal Code, while into mental care as there is a high degree and socially alienating. VISA G pointed family who had the means to offer me an generally not used to prosecute LGBTI or into mental care as of “family shame” attached to having a out that there is a suicide hotline in escape to South Africa.”33 people, nevertheless enables police and Mauritius called Befrienders and that others to threaten or intimidate these gay child. Gay and lesbian individuals are there is a high degree they receive a high number of calls from Ongoing challenges for the LGBTI communities.34 LGBTI human rights referred to in derogatory terms such as transgender people. CAEC has taken of “family shame” community relate to socio-legal activists say those who are open about the Creole expression pilon. a position on this issue, calling on the ambiguities where homosexuality is not their sexual orientation are often refused attached to having a Government to facilitate change of gender illegal but where identifying oneself as jobs or promotions in the workplace and at the civil status.38 gay child. LGBTI can directly result in discrimination some even face death threats.”35 LGBTI and prejudice. The effects of this on victims of verbal abuse or violence within LGBTI individuals is that their human the family have consistently reported rights to health, employment and incidents to CAEC, and more recently, to education can be restricted or denied the Young Queer Alliance (YQA).36 26 based on sexuality and sexual identity. 27

33. GlobalGayz, 2008, http://archive.globalgayz.com/africa/mauritius/gay-mauritius-news-and-reports-2008/#article8 37. These observations were shared with the researcher during key informant interviews and focus group discussions with LGBTI individuals and 34. UNAIDS, Country Progress Report 2015 Republic of Mauritius, p. 46. allies. 35. GlobalGayz, 2006, http://archive.globalgayz.com/africa/mauritius/gay-mauritius-news-and-reports-2008/ 38. Briefing Note for the 2009 UPR Process, http://lib.ohchr.org/HRBodies/UPR/Documents/Session4/MU/CAC_MUS_UPR_S4_2009_ 36. 76 Crimes, https://76crimes.com/2016/05/03/tally-of-lgbti-rights-wrongs-in-29-sub-saharan-countries/ CollectifArcenCiel.pdf country report: Mauritius country report: Mauritius canaries in the coal mines – an analysis of spaces for LGBTI activism in Mauritius canaries in the coal mines – an analysis of spaces for LGBTI activism in Mauritius

The closed, tightly-knit 6.1 Desire for Legal Recognition 6.3 Social Media Victims generally nature of Mauritian The biggest challenge for LGBTI people, prohibits discrimination based on sexual Social media has been a significant Grindr and OnlyLads sites in Mauritius refuse to file particularly gay, bisexual and transmen, is orientation. The legal rights of sexual catalyst in enabling LGBTI people to revealed a significant number of profiles society creates a the fact that sodomy remains criminalized. minorities remain unclear and untested. network and communicate with one (seventy-five on Grindr on 10 May complaints with police Although it has been rarely used, the Homosexual couples have limited legal another. LGBTI individuals use Facebook, 2016). The profiles on the site were a lack of openness to fact that it remains on the statute books status and cannot benefit from the rights Twitter and Whatsapp, as well as gay combination of local Mauritian men as for fear of ostracization discussion of SOGI leaves LGBTI people feeling criminalized or advantages granted to heterosexual dating apps such as Grindr or internet well as tourists. or reprisal from family and vulnerable to arrest and conviction. couples, such as marriage, adoption, sites such as OnlyLads. A scan of the issues, and common The Criminal Code continues to reinforce inheritance, or legal recourse to claim members. community responses the anti-homosexuality discourse; alimony, custody or visitation rights, in the while the Equal Opportunities Act that case of couples with children. 6.4 Abuse/Exclusion tend to be poorly LGBTI victims of verbal abuse or violence mocked him. The victim filed a complaint informed and often 6.2 Broad Acceptance, Respect and Dignity within the family have reported incidents with the NHRC, but according to YQA the derogatory. Myths of harassment, intimidation and violence investigation is still ongoing.40 A blog post on GlobalGayz sums up Coming out as gay brings shame on the to CAEC and YQA. Victims generally and stereotypes the feelings of many LGBTI people in family as well as personal risk, which refuse to file complaints with police for Integrated Biological and Behavioural Mauritius: “If someone is gay here, he most Mauritian gay men aren’t willing to fear of ostracization or reprisal from Surveys carried out in 2010 and 2012, about homosexuality may be regarded as a freak, and made experience.”39 family members. In September 2015 have found that “17% of MSM were fun of, no matter how straight he may police officers of Sodnac police station, refused service, 10% were refused reinforce stigma The closed, tightly-knit nature of Mauritian look! Blending in seems to be the only accompanied by police officers of the employment, 8% refused housing, and society creates a lack of openness to and discrimination, way to get through the day. You may not Criminal Investigation Division of Quatre 8% were hit or kicked in the past year discussion of SOGI issues, and common care what others think, but many gay Bornes, arrested a young trans person because of their sexual orientation.” community responses tend to be poorly pushing most LGBTI people in Mauritius are afraid someone for no apparent reason. Police took him Among MSM, “84% reported receiving informed and often derogatory. Myths may recognize them as a gay. The island to the Sodnac police station where he verbal insults and 7.4% were assaulted individuals into a life and stereotypes about homosexuality is too small. Many gay guys want to was strip-searched and forced to parade because they were perceived to be reinforce stigma and discrimination, 41 of secrecy and fear of leave the island at some point, and many naked in front of police officers who MSM.” go to South Africa or Europe as soon pushing most LGBTI individuals into a life being outed. as they can afford the journey. There’s of secrecy and fear of being outed. little appetite for fighting public attitudes.

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39. GlobalGayz, 2010, http://www.globalgayz.com/gay-mauritius/ 40. Embassy of the United States of America. 2015. Mauritius 2015 Human Rights Report at http://photos.state.gov/libraries/mauritius/890/ public/HRR-Mauritius.pdf 41. AIDS Unit, Ministry of Health and Quality of Life, 2010, Integrated Behavioral and Biological Surveillance Survey among Men who have Sex with Men. country report: Mauritius country report: Mauritius canaries in the coal mines – an analysis of spaces for LGBTI activism in Mauritius canaries in the coal mines – an analysis of spaces for LGBTI activism in Mauritius

are denied access to social protection marriage to avoid family ‘shame’ and Despite incremental 6.5 Better Understanding of LGBTI Communities schemes, such as healthcare and possibly an attempt to ‘cure’ them; Health services for pensions. The heteronormative family, > Adolescent and young lesbian and The Council of Religions argued that their resort to religious and medical ‘cures’ to shifts in attitudes, both nuclear and extended, is core gay individuals who leave their transgender people focus was increasingly on “love” and ‘normalize’ their child’s sexuality. to ethno-religious communities in homes have been known to be LGBTI people remain “acceptance” rather than on sexuality and Mauritius. There is little appetite for remain a challenge. Despite incremental shifts in attitudes, kidnapped by family members and judgement. There is a more accepting ‘non-traditional’ families and there is a alienated and LGBTI people remain alienated and forcibly brought home so they can be It is common and informed attitude to sexual minorities powerful expectation that children will stigmatized with many experiencing high ‘married off’; among young people, who despite transition from the home directly to their stigmatized with many levels of rejection and trauma. This includes > Exorcisms to extract the ‘illness’ or for transgender traditional upbringings, have had greater marital home. Individualistic choices like the severing of family ties, and rejection and ‘demon’ are still performed; experiencing high access to information than their parents’ leaving the family home to go into other individuals in transition threats by close family members. Family generation. accommodation and live a single life is > Young LGBTI individuals may levels of rejection and ties play an important role in the lives of to self-medicate, generally frowned on, especially regarding experience violence within family units; The ‘choice’ issue remains a contested Mauritians, and many LGBTI people remain trauma. This includes young women. > Most gay or bisexual men will get without understanding one with those who oppose homosexuality economically dependent on their relatives, married to maintain the façade of believing that it is wrong and that it is a further constraining and problematizing Few young LGBTI feel able to come out the severing of family heterosexuality, but continue to the side effects of choice that people make. Some families disclosure. to their families, for the following reasons: engage in same-sex sexual activity in ties, and rejection and > Adolescent girls who are perceived to hormonal treatment. secret. threats by close family 6.6 Support from Non-LGBTI Allies be lesbian or trans may be forced into members. One respondent talked about their an equitable manner regardless of their 6.8 Access to Services journey of making LGBTI friends at sexual orientation. college. As a result, he started to film The CAEC and YQA receive funding transgender individuals in transition to Informants felt that one of the most Gay Pride events and felt strongly that from the Global Fund grant to deliver self-medicate, without understanding the powerful messages for changing attitudes straight filmmakers can communicate HIV prevention services to MSM and side effects of hormonal treatment. Going was to be a visible LGBTI ally to change a positive perspective on LGBTI transgender communities. This has to hospital is a challenge for trans people the public narrative, despite the risks issues. Another respondent, a medical enabled them to mobilize small teams of as there is no recognition of transgender involved. Respondents highlighted practitioner, felt that her education and outreach coordinators and peer educators issues and medical staff are not sensitized hostility and abuse that they had exposure to a rights-based ethics of care distributing condoms and lubricants, to the needs of transgender people. experienced because of their support for had opened her mind to the need to providing prevention information, LGBTI human rights. serve all members of the community in counselling services and making referrals > Psycho-Social Support: The where required. For purposes of privacy outreach and peer educator and confidentiality services are generally programmes currently being rolled 6.7 Social Inclusion of LGBTI People in Mauritius provided through personal networks within out by CAEC, VISA G and YQA the LGBTI community, and peer educators include guidance, counselling and In the labour market, most LGBTI people vulnerable to harassment and bullying are often contacted for support through referral services. YQA is working to 30 continue to hide their sexual orientation or at school leading to underachievement, 31 social media. establish a centre that will provide endure harassment out of fear of losing school dropout, mental ill-health and support structures for LGBTI victims their work. Young LGBTI people who homelessness. Health services for transgender people of physical or psychological abuse. experience estrangement from family remain a challenge. It is common for and friendship networks are particularly Where they exist, same-sex couples

country report: Mauritius country report: Mauritius canaries in the coal mines – an analysis of spaces for LGBTI activism in Mauritius

There are a range of NGOs and development agencies that actively support LGBTI communities in Mauritius, or The NHRC remains who have the potential to do so. the principal human key potential rights body in the 7.1 PILS (Prévention Information Lutte contre le Sida) country and has the potential to be a strong PILS is the primary agency leading As an ally to the LGBTI community, the national HIV/AIDS response and is PILS plays a strategic role in providing ally for organizations non-LGBTI allies/ the principal recipient for the current funding support to YQA and VISA G. Global Fund grant in Mauritius. The PILS is also obligated to ensure that the promoting the human strategic entry points primary objective of PILS is to reduce Global Fund policy on SOGI is applied rights of sexual the number of HIV cases, address through each grant provided; and to drive stigma through advocacy, information a rights-based agenda in the provision minorities. and communication, and improve the of HIV-related health and psychosocial quality of life of People Living with HIV programming, including for LGBTI people. and AIDS (PLHIV) by contributing to the improvement of medical care and psycho-social support.

7.2 National Human Rights Commission

The National Human Rights Commission The NHRC enquires into written (NHRC) has consultative powers to advise complaints made “by any person who the government, carry out research feels that any of the human rights on human rights, produce studies and enshrined in Chapter II of the Constitution make general recommendations on has been violated or is likely to be violated human rights issues. It also has quasi- by the act or omission of a public officer jurisdictional powers in that it can carry or employee of a public body.”42 out investigations, summon witnesses, call for documents and hold hearings The NHRC remains the principal human pertaining to alleged breaches of human rights body in the country and has rights. the potential to be a strong ally for organizations promoting the human rights 33 of sexual minorities.

42. National Human Rights Commission, Functions, http://nhrc.govmu.org/English/Pages/default.aspx

7 country report: Mauritius canaries in the coal mines – an analysis of spaces for LGBTI activism in Mauritius canaries in the coal mines – an analysis of spaces for LGBTI activism in Mauritius

The religious sector is 7.3 Council of Religions 7.5 Diplomatic Missions divided on the issue The Council of Religions is the main to interact with LGBTI organizations such Most respondents and key contributors 2014. He is willing to speak openly about multi-faith coordinating body in Mauritius, as CAEC. noted that the US Embassy has been sexual orientations and the human rights of homosexuality, committed to interreligious dialogue very supportive of the LGBTI movement of LGBTI people. Many respondents felt that will contribute to building a more The religious sector is divided on the in Mauritius, and has remained a strong that he served as a particularly good with groupings consensus-oriented Mauritian religious issue of homosexuality, with groupings ally. The United Kingdom ambassador, champion for the LGBTI movement within different unity. The Council is prepared to agree as within different faiths voicing strong Jonathan Drew, is an openly gay man given his high profile, but also in terms a collective that SOGI issues should be condemnation, while others are reaching who is in a same-sex marriage. He of his ability as a diplomat to challenge faiths voicing strong dealt with in a compassionate manner, out proactively to the LGBTI community. presented his credentials to the President prevailing notions of sexual minorities and to develop a common position Given its pre-eminence in Mauritian of the Republic of Mauritius in August commonly held by the Mauritian public. condemnation, while on anti-discrimination. The Council is society this is a sector that the LGBTI others are reaching represented on the country’s HIV and movement needs to engage with, AIDS Country Coordinating Mechanism, however challenging this may be. While out proactively to the where they have a role to play in the Council of Religions could appear programming for MSM and transgender to be “fence sitting” on the issue of LGBTI community. people. The national HIV response has LGBTI rights, there is also a sufficient Given its pre-eminence presented an entry point for the religious level of pragmatism from some religious sector to engage with LGBTI issues and leaders that offers scope for constructive in Mauritian society dialogue. this is a sector that the LGBTI movement 7.4 Universal Rights Group needs to engage with, The Universal Rights Group (URG) is a rights and religion” the organization small, independent think tank dedicated works on human rights linked to sexual however challenging to analyzing and strengthening global minorities. URG has recently opened this may be. human rights policy. The URG works an office in Mauritius and will be looking with ARC International and through a at strategies for promoting the rights of programme entitled “In Focus: human sexual minorities.

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country report: Mauritius country report: Mauritius canaries in the coal mines – an analysis of spaces for LGBTI activism in Mauritius

Afrobarometer / StraConsult. 2015. Afrobarometer Round 6 Survey in Ministry of Health and Quality of Life. 2010. Integrated Behavioral and Mauritius, 2014. http://afrobarometer.org/sites/default/files/publications/ Biological Surveillance Survey among Men who have Sex with Men, 2010. Summary%20of%20results/mau_r6_sor_en1.pdf AIDS Unit. Port Louis.

Coolectif Arc-en-Ciel. 2015. Strategic Framework 2015 – 2018. CAEC. Ministry of Health and Quality of Life. 2014. Programmatic Mapping and references Quatre Bornes. Size Estimation of Key Populations in Mauritius. AIDS Unit. Port Louis. Equal Opportunities Commission. 2014. Report. Equal Opportunities Rambaree, K. 2011. “Young People and Cybersex in a Sexually Commission. Port Louis. Conservative Society: A Case Study from Mauritius Youth Culture and Net Culture: Online Social Practices: Online Social Practices (edited by Dunkels, Equality Network. 2014. LGBTI People of the Commonwealth. Equality E.). International Science Reference. New York. Network Edinburgh. United Nations Economic, Social and Cultural Organisation. 2015. European Union. 2013. Mapping study of civil society organisations in the Comprehensive Sexuality Education in Teacher Training in Eastern and Republic of Mauritius. Decentralised Cooperation Programme 111. ARS Southern Africa. UNESCO. Paris. Progetti S.P.A. Brussels.

International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association: Carroll, A and Itaborahy, L.P. 2015. State-Sponsored Homophobia A World Survey of Laws: criminalisation, protection and recognition of same-sex love. Geneva. ILGA.

country report: Mauritius canaries in the coal mines – an analysis of spaces for LGBTI activism in Mauritius

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