Queering Youth, Peace and Security
Thematic intersections with the Youth, Peace and Security resolutions is important. Our members have decided to highlight 2SLGBTQIA+ experiences in peace and security matters as a priority for our Coalition.
2SLGBTQIA+ refers to members of the community who identify as two-spirited, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual, gender-diverse, gender-fluid or other sexual identities and orientations.
Members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community face many of the same peace and security challenges outlined in global agendas, while also confronting additional conflicts and insecurities unique to their identities.
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For example, 12 countries impose the death penalty for same-sex relations, regardless of conflict.​
Currently, no Youth, Peace and Security resolutions reference 2SLGBTQIA+, and very few National Action Plans (NAPs) mention issues unique to members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.
Of the four NAPs on YPS, only Finland and the Philippines mention 2SLGBTQIA+ in their commitments. Around 13 countries have adopted specific NAPs on 2SLGBTQIA+. That said, NAPs on 2SLGBTQIA+ largely do not make the links between the community’s experiences and needs relating to peace and security.
There is a burgeoning discussion around “Queering” Peace and Security to highlight these gaps in the peace and security agendas.
Linking 2SLGBTQIA+ rights to YPS:
Participation
The participation pillar of the Youth, Peace & Security agenda demands for young people to be included at all levels of decision-making. This includes the meaningful participation of 2LGBTQIA+ youth!
Protection
The protection pillar of the Youth, Peace & Security agenda works to ensure a safe and inclusive environment for youth peacebuilders of all backgrounds where they are supported and protected in peacebuilding work. This includes addressing the persecution, violence, and criminalization 2LGBTQIA+ peacebuilders are faced with.
Prevention
The prevention pillar of the Youth, Peace & Security agenda encourages the creation of inclusive and enabling environments in which young people from diverse backgrounds are recognized and supported in conflict and violence prevention activities and in social cohesion and reconciliation. This includes creating 2LGBTQIA+ inclusive spaces and activities for young people.
Partnerships
The Youth, Peace & Security agenda demands meaningful partnerships with youth who work to build peace at all levels. This includes young 2LGBTQIA+ community members, who are often marginalized and excluded as sexual and gender minorities.
Disengagement and Reintegration
The disengagement and reintegration pillar encourages all those involved in disarmament, demobilization and reintegration to ensure a gender-sensitive and evidence-based response that includes investments in education, employment, training, and youth-led peacebuilding to promote a culture of peace.