As Lebanon’s economy continues to crumble, trans people are facing a healthcare crisis that is making it harder for them to transition and obtain vital ID documents. The collapse of the Lebanese currency has triggered triple-digit inflation and plunged many Lebanese into poverty, with trans people among the most affected. Activists and physicians report that the economic crisis is forcing trans people to choose between purchasing food or their hormone treatment, and many are unable to access affordable and adequate healthcare.
According to a survey conducted by local rights group Nada Ghorayeb, finding and affording healthcare is a daily struggle for most trans people in Lebanon. The survey of 48 trans people revealed that 36 of them cited money as the main barrier to accessing care and hormone treatment, while 22 said they could not find a specialist to treat them or track down the medication they need. Surgery to change their bodies remains a dream for many trans people, as they cannot afford it, even if they work and save for years.
The situation is especially difficult for those who require hormone treatment, which is scarce and expensive in Lebanon. Misuse of hormones or a sudden freeze in medication can cause serious health risks, such as depression, dysmorphia, and body aches. As a result, some people are rationing their hormones, pooling resources, and sharing drugs to get at least a fraction of their needs. Others are turning to cheaper and sometimes risky alternatives, such as pregnancy pills.
Organizations such as Proud Lebanon are trying to cushion the crisis by providing free healthcare to many LGBTQ+ Lebanese. The group’s director, Berto Maxi, stated that they offer medical support and discounted rates, meaning cheaper tests and checkups for trans people. However, medical professionals like Batoul Jaafar, who provides gender-affirming care, are struggling to keep up with the demand, and many trans people are deterred from getting new ID papers due to high costs, protracted court proceedings, and a dearth of legal aid.
The legal system in Lebanon poses additional problems for trans people. A 2022 Human Rights Watch report highlights that many trans people are left in legal limbo due to high thresholds and costs required for gender-affirming surgeries and legal gender recognition. Despite the challenges, trans activists and organizations are advocating for more support and resources to help trans people in Lebanon access affordable and adequate healthcare, legal gender recognition, and other services.