In many of the countries where the Free to Be Me program operates, anti-gender and anti-rights movements have been gaining traction, leading to regressive policies and heightened societal hostility toward LGBTIQ+ individuals. These movements often exploit cultural, religious, and political narratives to gain support, fueled by misinformation, fearmongering, and the manipulation of cultural and religious narratives, regressive movements are eroding the hard-won gains of LGBTQI+ rights.
In Africa, the impact was particularly pronounced. Uganda’s Anti-Homosexuality Act, a draconian law that criminalized same-sex relations, was enacted, while Ghana’s Parliament had passed the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, awaiting presidential assent. Religious leaders across the continent mobilized protests against the so-called “LGBTIQ+ agenda,” fueling a climate of intolerance in countries like Kenya, Namibia, and Zimbabwe.
The rise of populist and conservative politics has emboldened anti-LGBTIQ+ groups, resulting in violent crackdowns on activists and the closure of safe spaces. In Southeast Asia, targeted harassment and cyberbullying have surged, further limiting the already restricted civic space for LGBTIQ+ advocates
The consequences of these anti-rights movements are far-reaching, creating an environment where not only LGBTQI+ organizations and individuals face increased risks but gains on sexual reproductive health rights are also under threat. These anti-gender movements have exacerbated the challenges of ensuring security for LGBTQI+ communities. Security risks now extend beyond physical threats to include digital vulnerabilities, psychological harm, and to a large extent economic exclusion. Government surveillance and the use of technology to track activists have increased significantly, raising concerns about digital safety and data protection. LGBTIQ+ individuals face heightened risks of being outed, harassed, or targeted through online platforms, which undermines the ability to mobilize and advocate safely.
The safety of LGBTIQ+ organizations is also compromised, with reports of office raids, harassment of staff, and intimidation from authorities. States have been complicit, using legal and bureaucratic measures to weaken LGBTIQ+ civil society’s ability to operate. This includes refusing to register LGBTQI+ organizations, imposing burdensome regulations, or directly surveilling activists.
Amping Up Security for the Indonesian CoA
Free to Be Me hosted a transformative security training to make Community of Action (CoA) members aware of security threats. This caused a paradigm shift and focused on the participants’ readiness to protect themselves, and develop a security-loving attitude, especially in light of Indonesia’s shifting legal landscape. This was informed by the creeping criminalization and discriminatory laws, the risks faced by LGBTIQ+ activists, and data from a security survey illustrated that a number of organizations were not ready to handle such challenges. Participants learned about physical, digital, and psychosocial security, gaining insights into potential risks and effective strategies for mitigation.
Indonesian CoA participating in the transformative security training
Prior to the training, a survey was conducted that found only 5 of the 18 CoA members had Organizational Security Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and these were outdated. Even more concerning, the majority of the members had never participated in any form of security training.
The life-changing security training was a turning point for many participants. Attended by 16 CoA members and representatives from two partner organizations, the training achieved its objective of raising awareness. One participant remarked, “I just realized my life as an LGBTIQ rights activist is not as secure as I thought.” Another added, “I need to stop using just one password for all of my digital accounts.”
Beyond raising awareness, the training catalyzed a significant shift in the CoA members’ approach to security. Following the training, there was a surge in requests for security assistance from the SSFP, the organization’s dedicated security support team. CoA members sought guidance on enhancing organizational security, developing security protocols for their activities, and obtaining support for specific security needs.
Following the training, CoA witnessed notable improvements in the security practices of its member organizations. More organizations implemented security training for their members, developed and updated organizational security SOPs, and sought regular security assistance from the SSFP.
This shift demonstrates an increasing awareness of security needs, which has prompted organizations to take proactive steps to safeguard their staff, offices, and activities. The momentum gained through the F2BM program ensures that as the CoA continues to face legal challenges, it is more resilient and better equipped to protect its community.
As the program continues this work, we hope the legacy of strengthened security protocols and practices will endure, creating a safer environment for LGBTIQ+ rights defenders across the country. By fostering a culture of security awareness and providing practical support, the CoA in Indonesia is empowering its members to navigate a challenging environment and continue their vital work for LGBTQ+ rights.
