Understanding and Challenging Stigma toward ... - Pact Cambodia

Information
Sheets
Freedom from discrimination on the basis of color, race, tribe, sex, political
opinion or creed (the constitution does not include sexual orientation or gender
identity/expression)
What are some rights of men who have sex with men (MSM) that are commonly violated in
Cambodia?
Right to equality and dignity: Many MSM are stigmatized and discriminated
against, which violates their right to equal and respectful treatment.
Right to liberty and security of person: Some MSM have been bullied and forced
by their parents to become “real men,” i.e., not allowed to exercise their right to
be themselves.
Freedom from inhumane or degrading treatment: Some MSM have been
scolded and beaten, have had their hair cut off and have been treated harshly
in the home.
Freedom of association: Some MSM have been evicted from public places.
Freedom of religion: Some MSM have been evicted from the pagoda.
Right to information: In the past MSM were not given enough correct
information about HIV, preventing them from fully understanding how to
protect themselves.
Right to health care: Some MSM have been given substandard care or refused
care at health facilities.
Right to privacy: Some health workers have breached confidentiality by
revealing the sexual orientation of MSM patients, thus violating the MSM’s right
to privacy.
Right to shelter: Some MSM have been evicted from their homes by their
families or by landlords.
Right to work: Some MSM are not hired, not promoted or fired.
Right to equal protection by the law: If an MSM reports a case of violence or
sexual harassment to the police, the police often refuse to take up the case.
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