Sexdiversity
S05: Normative implications of TIN* persons’ human rights in a non-binary legal world
Project summary:
The aim of the project is to improve the understanding of the situations, needs and views, to identify issues, and to (re)formulate legal norms and regulations in such a way that the human rights of trans*, inter* and non-binary (TIN) people and people with a so-called Difference of Sex Development (DSD) are fully recognized and respected. The team will use qualitative social research methodology, a hermeneutic-phenomenological approach to empirical ethics, and critical legal gender analyses and the methodology of comparative law.
Our concern:
Where is society not yet well equipped to meet the needs of TIN* people and persons with a so-called Difference of Sex Development? Which laws, rules and structures need to be changed to accommodate them?
In recent times, we have recognised some efforts in society to take better account of the legitimate claims of TIN* people and individuals with a so-called Difference of Sex Development (third gender option, self-determination law, regulation of gender alignment surgery for infants). However, many requests are currently still not being adequately addressed. This affects different areas of life. Our research focuses mainly on the authorities, medicine, schools, workplace, etc.
We want to find out which problems exist. In doing so, we take into account the views and experiences of people who are directly affected. To gather insights, we are conducting an interview study and analyse the healthcare and the legal system.
In the interview study, we talk to TIN* people and people with a so-called Difference of Sex Development. We listen to what concerns them and where they face barriers in society.
The analysis of healthcare services relates to the medical and psychological treatment of TIN* people. In discussions with specialists, we have a closer look at gaps in care and discuss possible solutions.
In the legal analysis, we review the existing laws, identify regulations that raise problems for TIN* persons and develop proposals for potential solutions.
Prof. Dr. Anna Katharina Mangold, LL.M. (Cambridge)
Europa Universität Flensburg
Abteilung Europa- und Völkerrecht
Prof. Dr. phil. dipl. biol. Christoph Rehmann-Sutter
Universität zu Lübeck
Institut für Medizingeschichte und Wissenschaftsforschung
Kaj Kähne
Universität zu Lübeck
Institut für Medizingeschichte und Wissenschaftsforschung
Nick Markwald
Europa Universität Flensburg
Abteilung Europa- und Völkerrecht
Aim of the study:
People who are directly affected know best where in society the needs of TIN* persons and individuals with a Difference of Sex Development are not yet adequately taken into account. That is why we want to gather the experiences of TIN* people and people with a so-called Difference of Sex Development in personal interviews. We want to hear their stories, their experiences of dealing with the authorities, doctors, sports clubs or family, etc. And together we want to develop concrete ideas on how this society can become a better place.
Who can participate?
The study is open to anyone who doesn’t fit or hasn’t fit into binary sex/gender concepts because of their body (e.g. diagnosis of a Difference of Sex Development), their gender identity (e.g. trans* non-binary) or for other reasons. The minimum age for participation is 14 years. A good knowledge of German or English is also required.
How does the interview work?
The interviewees decide when and where the interview takes place. An experienced person from the study team will travel to you for a private conversation in which you can talk freely about your experiences and views. At the beginning of the interview, you will be given all the important information (e.g. about data protection) and have the opportunity to ask questions, express concerns or wishes. You will then be guided through the interview using some basic questions that we have prepared in advance. You decide for yourself which questions you want to answer, and which experiences you want to share. You will also be given the opportunity to speak freely about anything you feel is important to the topic. The interview will be audio-recorded and is expected to take 1-2 hours.
Benefits of participation:
The knowledge gained through your participation can help to improve the medical-psychological care and legal situation of TIN* people and people with a so-called Difference of Sex Development. We thank you for the time you give to the project. Unfortunately, we are unable to pay any compensation.
Contact:
If you are interested in taking part in an interview or if you have any questions about the study, please do not hesitate to contact us:
Kaj Kähne
e-mail: sfb1665.s05@uni-luebeck.de
phone: +49 451-3101 3420