HRC54 Side Event | Human rights of intersex persons: mapping good practices and addressing the gaps

The image is surrounded by a frame in the colour of the intersexan umbrella term for the spectrum of variations of sex characteristics that naturally occur within the human species. Intersex people are born with variations of sex characteristics (such as genitals, reproductive organs, hormonal and chromosomal patterns) that are more diverse than stereotypical definitions of male or female bodies. Up to 1.7% of the global population are born with such traits; yet, because their bodies are seen as different, intersex children and adults are often stigmatised and subject to harmful practices – including in medical settings - and discriminated against. More pride flag and mentions the date, location, language, and speakers  of the HRC54 side event: ‘Human rights of intersex persons: mapping good practices and addressing the gaps’

Intersex individuals, who are born with variations in sex characteristicsa term that refers to physical features relating to sex - including genitalia and other sexual and reproductive anatomy, chromosomes, hormones, and secondary physical features emerging from puberty. More that do not fit typical definitions for male or female bodies, face unique and often misunderstood challenges – including human rights violations such as discriminationunequal or unfair treatment which can be based on a range of grounds - such as age, ethnic background, disability, and diverse sexual orientations, gender identities and expressions or sex characteristics, amongst others. More, lack of access to appropriate healthcare, and non-consensual medical interventions.

During the past decade, significant legal developments have occurred at the international, regional and national levels that have improved the human rights protections of this community. However, the overwhelming majority of UN member States still lack legislation and policies to address these violations. The situation requires ongoing engagement with intersex human rights defenders to ensure that the civil society is best positioned to advocate for the human rights of intersex people.

During this event, speakers will provide information on the developments of human rights violations, protections, and progress related to intersex persons – both globally and at the regional level. They will also share evidence-driven data, publications, and other resources which will equip attendees with the information to effectively act upon the violation of the human rights of intersex people, and call attention to various established initiatives, projects, tools, and good practices related to civil society advocacy supporting intersex people.

Co-organisers

• ILGA World
• Intersex Asia
• OII Europe
• Intersex Nigeria
• Intersex Human Rights Australia (IHRA)
• Iranti
• Mulabi

Co-sponsors

• OHCHR
• the Permanent Missions of
  • Chile
  • Finland
  • Australia
  • South Africa

Speakers

• Representative of the Permanent Mission of Finland
• Oscar Fitzpatrick | ILGA World
• Michael Van Gelderen | OHCHR
• Obioma Chukwuike | Intersex Nigeria
• Dan Christian Ghattas | OII Europe
• Hiker Chiu | Intersex Asia
• Morgan Carpenter | Intersex Human Rights Australia