Rethinking Gender: Negotiating Future Queer Rights in Thailand¹

1 Although this article synthesizes the author’s existing research, it presents new arguments from previously unpublished research.

Abstract

The article aims to present a new aspect of gender research by using the rights-based approach for sexually marginalized groups. The research deals with the experiential aspects of being a transgender sex worker in Thailand, a group of people who lack power, can be vulnerable, and are usually overlooked in the “Gender Mainstreaming” policy. This article challenges the Western academic discourse on Gender Identity Disorder (GID), and the binary biological model on which the diagnosis is based. It is argued that the “gender agenda” needs to go beyond the binary categories of gender—male and female—to explore the identity crisis and marginalization of those between genders as part of broader queer/LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transsexual) rights. The article also attempts to negotiate future queer rights in Thailand, by showing that actions or events in any part of the world have an impact on people elsewhere, and we must together script a new chapter to end violence and discrimination against all people, irrespective of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

Key Words:

• Gender
• sexuality
• rights
• transgender
• queer theory
• development
• Thailand

Notes

1 Although this article synthesizes the author’s existing research, it presents new arguments from previously unpublished research.