WHO Removes Homosexuality from Psychiatric Disorders
May 17th, 1990
May 17th, 1990

How Long Ago?
34 years, 9 months, 26 days ago
Location
Geneva, Switzerland
Category
Health & Medicine
People
- Dr. Hiroshi Nakajima
- Dr. Michael E. Mann
- Dr. Paul T. F. Wong
Links & References
Tags
WHO Removes Homosexuality from Psychiatric Disorders
The World Health Organization (WHO) made a significant decision to remove homosexuality from its International Classification of Diseases (ICD). This decision followed years of advocacy and activism from LGBTQ+ rights groups and was influenced by changing public attitudes toward sexuality. The meeting took place during the World Health Assembly, where representatives from member states discussed various health issues. The change reflected a broader recognition of LGBTQ+ rights and aimed to promote mental health and wellbeing for all, acknowledging that homosexuality is not a mental disorder.
WHO removed homosexuality from the ICD list
Decision influenced by LGBTQ+ advocacy groups
Marked change in mental health understanding
Promoted human rights and societal acceptance
What Happened?
The World Health Organization’s decision to declassify homosexuality as a mental illness from the International Classification of Diseases marked a pivotal moment for LGBTQ+ rights and mental health awareness worldwide. This change resulted from extensive lobbying by LGBTQ+ groups and mental health professionals who argued that classifying homosexuality as a disorder contributed to societal stigma and discrimination. The resolution was finalized during the World Health Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland, where delegates from WHO member countries convened to discuss global health challenges. It was clear that the implications of this decision extended far beyond clinical classifications and into the realm of human rights.This historic move did not happen overnight. Over the decades leading up to the decision, there was a significant shift in public perceptions of homosexuality, fueled by activism, research, and changing social norms. Notably, in 1973, the American Psychiatric Association removed homosexuality from its Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-II), which set a precedent for similar organizations worldwide. By 1990, increased visibility and advocacy from LGBTQ+ activists played a crucial role in influencing WHO's actions.By removing homosexuality from the ICD, the WHO not only acknowledged the validity of LGBTQ+ identities but also helped catalyze changes in mental health treatment, promoting the understanding that sexual orientation is an intrinsic aspect of human diversity. This reclassification was celebrated as a landmark victory for advocacy groups striving for equality and acceptance in societies globally, emphasizing that mental health care should be equitable and respectful of all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation.
Why Does it Matter?
The declassification of homosexuality by the WHO is significant as it helped to legitimize LGBTQ+ identities and combat the stigma associated with being non-heteronormative. By aligning health policies with evolving social values, this decision laid the groundwork for future legislation and human rights movements focused on the protection and acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals. It encouraged other nations and organizations to reassess their own attitudes and practices regarding sexual orientation and mental health.
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