Uniting Diversity: Shaping the Future of Legal Equality for LGBTQ+ in India

Duration: February 2024 – October 2024
Funded by: United Nations Development Programme (under the SCALE initiative)
Knowledge Partner: ZS Associates

Background:

The Uniting Diversity project aimed to explore and understand the existing legal and social landscape affecting the LGBTQIA+ community in India. Mist LGBTQ Foundation, with funding from UNDP under its SCALE initiative and support from ZS Associates as a knowledge partner, undertook this initiative to identify how current laws and practices are applied or misused and their impact on the community.

Objective:

The primary goal of this project was to gather insights and provide actionable recommendations for fostering inclusion and equality for LGBTQIA+ individuals in India.

The project focused on:

• Gathering opinions from LGBTQIA+ members and allies on the current challenges faced by the community.
• Compiling learnings from conclaves organized in key Indian cities, featuring panel discussions with lawyers, activists, healthcare professionals, and community leaders.
• Analyzing data, feedback, and learnings specific to critical topics such as:
  • Healthcare challenges, including HIV prevention and treatment
  • Queer relationships and legal recognition
  • Workplace inclusion and reservations
  • Housing and shelter access

Outcome:

The findings and insights from the consultations were consolidated into a comprehensive policy brief. This document highlights key issues and challenges faced by the LGBTQIA+ community and provides targeted recommendations for progressive reforms in laws and practices. It is designed to serve as a reference for policymakers, academia, and stakeholders working to advance the welfare and rights of the LGBTQIA+ community in India.