Conceptualizing Private Violence Against Sexual Minorities As Gendered Violence, An International And Comparative Law Perspective

This article looks at the issue of violence against women and sexual minorities, and argues that since both stem from male dominance, it is important to consider other commonalities to devise adequate national and international legal protection. The main thesis of the article is that violence against sexual minorities is equivalent to gender subordination. This article looks at the ability as well as the shortcomings of international law to address domestic violence. Part II examines the similarities between gender violence and violence against sexual minorities. Part III takes a historical look at the systematic private violence faced by sexual minorities. Part IV considers the main limitation of international law to protect these two vulnerable groups, namely deference to national legislation and cultural customs. Part V discusses advancements in international law to enhance the protection of women and sexual minorities against gendered violence. [Descriptors: Violence Against Women, International]