In Paraguay‘s presidential and congressional elections on April 30, the absence of queer candidates and LGBTQ+ inclusive proposals was evident. The Colorado Party, under President-elect Santiago Peña, secured its position in power, while the LGBTQ+ community in the country continued to be marginalized.
Discrimination Deepens Amidst Anti-LGBTQ Rhetoric
During the electoral campaign, anti-LGBTQ leaders exploited public debates to spread hate speech and further discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. Paraguay remains one of the Latin American countries lacking any public policy or legislation safeguarding the rights of its queer population.
Gabriel Grommeck, a representative from SomosGay, a Paraguayan LGBTQ and intersex rights organization, expressed concerns about the nation’s political climate. Grommeck identified a trend of extreme positions fueled by misinformation and the influence of media and social networks, which he referred to as the “American syndrome.”
Contentious Terms and the Future of LGBTQ+ Rights in Paraguay
In November, the Foreign Affairs Ministry issued a controversial circular containing a “glossary” of terms to be used in discussions on gender issues. The document listed several prohibited terms, such as “diversity” and “intersectionality,” claiming they were not “universally accepted” and could conflict with national legal regulations.
Grommeck lamented the Colorado Party’s victory, foreseeing little opportunity for progress in LGBTQ+ rights in Paraguay during Peña’s tenure. The composition of the country’s Parliament further complicates any potential advancements in inclusivity.
Despite the concerning situation for the LGBTQ+ community in Paraguay, U.S. Ambassador to Paraguay Marc Ostfield, who is openly gay, congratulated President-elect Santiago Peña and expressed a commitment to working together to promote transparency and inclusive democracy.