COVID-19 responses and human rights violations among LGBTQ plus persons in Zimbabwe

Abstract

This paper employs an intersectionality framework to examine Zimbabwe’s COVID-19 response, showing how state-led measures deepened structural inequalities and human rights violations against LGBTQ+ individuals. Intersectional feminist theory is used to underscore the interconnected nature of oppression, revealing how pandemic preparedness strategies remain exclusionary and inattentive to the needs of marginalised populations. The study draws on data from focus group discussions and interviews conducted between April and May 2022 in Harare, Bulawayo, and Mutare with LGBTQ+ individuals and key informants. Findings show how actions and interventions ignored specific vulnerabilities, resulting in arbitrary arrests, sexual coercion, the denial of healthcare, domestic violence, disruption of livelihoods, and the closure of safe spaces. These outcomes reveal state overreach and a fundamental gap in inclusive pandemic preparedness planning. The paper argues that future readiness must extend beyond logistics and epidemiological monitoring to adopt a rights-based approach that recognises the criminalisation, stigma and socio-economic marginalisation faced by LGBTQ+ communities. Integrating LGBTQ+ perspectives into risk assessments, healthcare delivery and recovery strategies is essential. During the COVID-19 pandemic, community resilience and mutual aid networks were essential in reducing harm, highlighting the importance of supporting grassroots efforts and integrating inclusive, queer-informed frameworks into future pandemic preparedness and response.