Facebook, a refuge for homosexuals in Tunisia?

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Source: Gay Maroc

By MBH (Tekiano)

[Google translation]



Tunisian groups dedicated to homosexuality abound on facebook. And if gay men find refuge in Tunisia in the social network is not quite by chance: Facebook works because actively with the U.S. Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation.

The gay community seems Tunisian particularly active on Facebook. In countries where homosexuality is considered taboo and a hot topic, the web can defy the bans. Recall that in Tunisia, Article 230 of the Penal Code considers the act of sodomy as wrong. It is even punishable by imprisonment for three years. Also a practice condemned by the Islamic religion. Il n'empêche. Young, old, men, women, from all social classes in the Tunisia find themselves on the social network to discuss, and most importantly, build relationships.

Several Tunisian groups openly dedicated to homosexuality abound on Facebook. Groups that bear titles like "Gay Tunisia (754membres)," Gay Tunisian "," I'm gay and I assume Tunisian "... The list is not exhaustive but illustrates the trend. The pages dedicated to lesbians Tunisian social network are just as explicit.

The gay community seems to enjoy this virtual space free and open to all for posting ads for naughty rendezvous, exchange of phone numbers, links to specialized blogs, articles .... Some groups have turned into outright dating sites like "Meet gay bi Tunisia" and its some 888 members. Engaging in intimate conversations, sometimes very hot, the members (who come from all regions of Tunisia) take their ease for making contacts.

"Hi everyone I am a young man I want a romantic relationship with a faithful and serious man for a relationship lasting two. I am looking for someone else I do not want a cycle or a bi so if you are this person please leave a message "Some launches LS, did not really scared, go straight into the heart of the matter by referring to clearly their "measurements". Others seek pragmatic "partners in El Menzah, El Manar or Ennasr.

However, comments stigmatizing (and insulting) gays also bloom on these pages. But it's not really by chance that Facebook, with its 500 million members, is a haven for the gay community in Tunisia. The social network is working, in fact, actively with the U.S. Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD), which specializes in defending the rights of homosexuals.

In an official note published October 19, 2010, officials point out that Facebook's first social network in the world is "in touch with organizations that can provide help if you or someone you know is in danger."