"Intersex people - that is, individuals who are born with sex characteristics that do not fit the typical definition of male or female bodies - continue to face serious and widespread human rights violations and abuses," the statement said. "Governments should investigate human rights violations and abuses against intersex people, ensure accountability, reverse discriminatory laws and provide victims with access to remedy," it said, with signatories including Pakistan and Argentina. The UN says about 1.7% of babies are born intersex, with a small proportion undergoing surgery to bring the appearance and function of their genitalia into line with that expected of males or females. Research suggests that unnecessary surgeries performed without children's consent can lead to psychological damage later in life. An Austrian diplomat who helped coordinate the statement, but was not authorised to speak publicly, said it could be a first step in raising awareness of intersex rights violations and more countries may sign up next week.

Source: Dhaka Tribune October 01, 2020 16:41 UTC