Survey reveals increase in homo/transphobia in Chile in the context of Covid-19

The survey was launched on social media and was online between April 6 and 13.

April 15, 2020

Photo: Presentes Archive

The rapid spread of Covid-19 and the measures implemented by the Chilean government in response to the pandemic are impacting sexual diversity in the country. This assertion comes from the Movement for Homosexual Integration and Liberation (Movilh), following the release of the results of the survey "LGBTI People Facing Coronavirus in Chile ," which revealed, among other things, that 38% of respondents are experiencing an increase in homophobia and transphobia in their homes or neighborhoods, while spending more time with their families or neighbors, complying with mandatory and preventative quarantines.

https://agenciapresentes.org/2020/04/09/covid-19-paises/

The survey was launched on social media and was available online from April 6th to 13th. It was answered by 523 LGBTI people from all regions of the country : 35.8% said they had been victims of psychological aggression in recent days, 2.2% reported physical aggression, and 62% reported verbal abuse. When asked about the possibility that the effects of the novel coronavirus would increase discrimination against the community in the coming weeks, 44.3% believe it will happen, 35.5% rule it out, and 20.2% are unsure. Additionally, 27.5% said they know someone who is "having a hard time" at home or in their neighborhood.

[READ ALSO: Stories of dissident quarantines ]

“With this survey, we hope to contribute to expanding knowledge about the impact of the coronavirus on vulnerable groups such as LGBTI people,” Movilh stated in a press release. Looking ahead, 78.4% of respondents believe that Covid-19 will affect the advancement of LGBTI rights in terms of public policies and laws, at least throughout 2020. Regarding support, 95.8% believe that the State should implement measures to guarantee medication for people living with HIV, such as providing several months' worth of treatment to avoid exposure to infection when leaving their homes. And concerning measures specifically for the LGBTI community, which do not yet exist, 46.6% believe that the trans population should be prioritized because they are more vulnerable in the workplace, in education, and in accessing healthcare.

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