Culture as a barrier to the realisation of sexual minority rights in Zimbabwe

Abstract

Homophobia is a well-known problem in Zimbabwe, as homosexuality is believed not to be part of African culture. As a result, 10% of the estimated homosexual individuals in Zimbabwe, most of them face abuse, discrimination and exclusion in all spheres of life. The Zimbabwean legal system of human rights is completely silent on sexual minority rights despite the Constitutional non-discrimination clause and international human rights and instruments that call for the protection of such rights. This study aims to explore the cultural barrier to the realization of sexual minority rights in Zimbabwe, with hopes to promote and pave the way for the progressive realisation of such rights. This research is a desktop study and makes use of a combined research method. Firstly, a critical perspective research method will be utilised to analyse how cultural and traditional values of Zimbabwe are a barrier to the full realisation of sexual minority rights. Secondly, a deconstructive perspective research method will be used to examine how the existing laws regarding homosexuality are wrongly constructed, which calls for change. Lastly, an analysis on avenues that can be taken in an effort to protect and realize sexual minority rights in Zimbabwe will be carried out.