#23 - LGBTQ+ Vulnerabilities, Policies and Disaster Risk Management in Colombia. Part 2 (Mr. Jeisson Orlando Garcia Orjuela )

Summary:

This podcast session explored the intersection of HIV, LGBTQ+ rights, and disaster risk management (DRM) in Colombia, with particular attention to ongoing stigma, healthcare access, and inclusive policy development.

Stigma surrounding HIV remains widespread. Many individuals, including LGBTQ+ people, face discrimination in healthcare, employment, and social settings due to misconceptions about HIV transmission. There is still a common, incorrect belief that casual contact can spread the virus. During disasters, this stigma compounds risks, as emergencies often disrupt access to medication and treatment continuity.

The availability of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) through Colombia’s public health system represents progress, yet uptake remains low. Fear of being stigmatised prevents many from seeking PrEP, as it is commonly associated with LGBTQ+ behaviour. This leads to higher health risks, especially in conservative areas where attitudes around sexuality remain rigid.

In response, the Colombian government is developing acomprehensive national LGBTQ+ policy (COMPES), which explicitly includes DRM considerations. The policy calls for inclusive emergency shelters, differentiated care protocols, and technical guidance for local DRM councils. The goal is to ensure dignity, safety, and protection for LGBTQ+ individuals during and after disasters.

International guidance, such as the United Nations’ Leave NoOne Behind principle, is shaping Colombia’s approach. While the Sendai Framework does not specifically name LGBTQ+ populations, it underscores the importance of inclusive risk reduction strategies.

The discussion also highlighted concerns about rising social conservatism in Latin America. Movements rooted in religious nationalism may undermine LGBTQ+ protections and inclusive disaster response efforts. Maintaining a secular, rights-based approach is critical to ensuring that progress continues and that all individuals, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, are protected and supported during emergencies.

Guest: Mr. Jeisson Orlando Garcia Orjuela (Unidad Nacionalpara la Gestión del Riesgo de Desastres, Colombia)

Host: Dr. Mark Ashley Parry (Northumbria University, UnitedKingdom)

Music: "Sunset" by Kai Engel, available at ⁠FreeMusic Archive⁠, licensed under CC BY 4.0.