Young Namibian voters push for LGBTQ+ equality

Young Namibian voters push for LGBTQ+ equality
LGBTQ+ Concerns Overlooked by Namibian Political Parties

As Namibia approaches its presidential and parliamentary elections on November 27, there is growing frustration among young LGBTQ+ voters who feel that their needs are largely ignored by political parties. Activists highlight that, while the country has made some progress on LGBTQ+ issues, conservative resistance remains strong, leaving this community marginalized.

Majority of Voters Are Youth, Yet LGBTQ+ Rights Go Unaddressed

The Namibian electorate includes about 1.5 million registered voters, with a striking 62% born after 1982, according to the Electoral Commission of Namibia. Despite this demographic’s push for economic and social inclusion, including LGBTQ+ rights, few political manifestos have addressed these issues, according to young campaigners.

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Young Activists Express Disappointment Over Lack of Support

Elaine Chanel Forbes, a 25-year-old transgender activist in Windhoek, voiced her disillusionment, saying she feels disregarded and dehumanized due to the absence of LGBTQ+ topics in party platforms. “The people we’re supposed to look up to and who are supposed to make us feel safe are plotting our demise,” she stated, noting that this lack of representation has made her question the value of voting.

Calls for Equal Rights, Not Special Treatment

Zindri Swartz, a 32-year-old queer man in the capital, emphasized that LGBTQ+ rights are fundamental human rights. “It’s not about asking for special treatment, just the same rights everyone else has,” he said, underscoring the community’s call for equal legal protection and inclusion, which he feels remains unmet by political leaders.

Only one political party has openly shown support for LGBTQ+ rights, further fueling concerns that the majority of the political landscape fails to represent the country’s diverse youth demographic.