Understanding and Challenging Stigma toward ... - Pact Cambodia

Annex for Chapter B:
What Do You Know about Men who Have Sex with Men?
(True/False Questionnaire)
9. In Cambodia it is illegal to be an MSM.
False. The penal code does not prohibit men from having sex with other men. MSM
cannot be detained or imprisoned for having feelings for members of the same sex
or for practicing sexual acts with another man. There is no legal basis in Cambodia
for MSM to be harassed or penalized for their sexual orientation.
10. MSM do not have the same rights as other people under
the Cambodian Constitution.
False. The Cambodian Constitution upholds the rights of all Cambodian citizens.
MSM have the same human rights as all other Cambodians and are equally
protected under the Constitution. There is no basis for discrimination based on
sexual preferences.
11. MSM have an increased risk of getting HIV because of the
common practice of unprotected anal intercourse.
Ttrue. At least 5-10 percent of all HIV infections worldwide are due to anal
intercourse between men. Unprotected anal intercourse carries a higher risk for
contracting sexually transmitted infections, including HIV, than vaginal intercourse.
This is because the rectum tears very easily leaving openings for HIV to be
transmitted. Anal sex also requires a lot of lubrication and a condom to be practiced
safely. Water-based lubricant, e.g., KY Jelly, which is safe to use with condoms is
often not accessible. Oil based lube, e.g. Vaseline, will cause the condom to
deteriorate and break. However, MSM can reduce the risk of contracting HIV by
practicing safe sex.
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