Protesters in Lima, Peru’s capital, marched to demand the repeal of a new law labeling transgender individuals as having a mental illness in order to access health benefits. Approximately 500 demonstrators peacefully protested in downtown Lima, holding banners with messages such as “No more stigmas” and “My identity is not a disease.”
The law, approved administratively by President Dina Boluarte’s government last week, classifies transgender individuals, “cross dressers,” and those with gender identity disorders as having “illnesses” eligible for mental health services from public and private providers.
Activist Gahela Cari Contreras stated, “Gender identities are no longer considered pathologies,” criticizing the government’s attempt to infringe on LGBTQ+ rights.
Critics argue that the law’s update to the PEAS health regulations was unnecessary, as existing rules already allowed for universal access to mental health services.
The health ministry defended the law, emphasizing that it aims to provide comprehensive health coverage without stigmatizing LGBTQ+ individuals.
Despite the ministry’s explanation, protesters remain unconvinced, with some medical experts advocating for an amendment to correct the law. Pedro Riega Lopez, the dean of Peru’s CMP medical college, stated, “We don’t see any need to include diagnoses or pathologies that no longer exist in health insurance plans.”
