Historic Policy Dialogue on Intersex and Transgender Rights in South Africa

Minister of Justice and Correctional Services Ronald Lamola will deliver a keynote address at a historic policy dialogue on Intersex and Transgender Rights in South Africa.

In partnership with the European Union and Civil Society organisations, South Africa will be reviewing policies on the protections of Transgender and Intersex persons from the 4th – 5th November 2021.

The national policy dialogue will discuss, among others, matters relating to Trans and Intersex policies for Legal Gender Recognition and ending Intersex Genital Mutilation in South Africa.

While there have been significant strides in legislative safeguards, gaps in policy and challenges with implementation remain. A pivotal outcome of the dialogue is to draft four policy briefs that focus on challenges faced by Transgender and Intersex persons in South Africa with a focus on Legal Gender Recognition, Health, Education as well as inclusion and Migration.

Day One (4 November 2021) will focus on the current legal framework on Legal Gender Recognition for Transgender people in South Africa and the need for self-determination.

Day Two (5 November 2021) will focus on violations experienced by Intersex persons and the necessity to have an Intersex specific legal framework that addresses Intersex Genital Mutilation.

The national policy dialogue will be attended by representatives from the South African government, (Departments of Justice & Constitutional Development, Health, and Home Affairs), representatives from the Government of Malta, high-level experts and Civil Society Organisations.

Source: Government of South Africa