Man jailed in Qatar for using Grindr ‘pressured to name sexual partners’
Sign up for more LGBTQ+ news and updates at TrueQueer.
A British-Mexican man, Manuel Guerrero Aviña, found himself in a nightmare situation in Qatar after being jailed for using the gay dating app Grindr. The 44-year-old former British Airways manager, who is also HIV positive, was arrested in February after responding to a fake message on the app.
Homosexuality is illegal in Qatar, a country with no protection from LGBTQ+ discrimination, according to Equaldex. The country scores just seven out of 100 in terms of LGBTQ+ rights. Despite this, Manuel found himself caught up in a situation that would not only threaten his freedom but also his health.
After being released from prison, Manuel still faces prosecution and is banned from leaving the country. His brother, Enrique Guerrero Aviña, revealed to Attitude magazine that Manuel is running out of his antiretroviral medication, with only nine doses left. This has caused great concern for Manuel’s health and well-being.
Enrique also alleged that Manuel’s medication was withheld in prison to create psychological pressure on him. He claimed that authorities pressured Manuel to reveal the names of his sexual partners as a condition of his release. This act of torture was documented by the UK embassy, according to Enrique.
“They made an intervention to know the names of Manuel’s sexual partners, that was before the release. That act of torture was documented by the UK embassy. It’s like the trial of another century,” Enrique said, emphasizing that his brother did not comply with the authorities.
Enrique further explained that the Qatari government believes “HIV is a criminal network,” adding to the already dire situation Manuel finds himself in. He called on the UK government to intervene and help save Manuel’s life and bring him back home.
“[They] can make more effort to save the life of Manuel and bring him home. He’s a British citizen,” Enrique pleaded. The family is also seeking support and solidarity from the LGBT community and British citizens to increase pressure on the Qatari authorities.
Manuel’s case highlights the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in countries where their rights are not protected. The lack of inclusivity and acceptance in Qatar has put Manuel’s health and freedom at risk, prompting calls for action from international organizations and governments.
As Manuel continues to fight for justice and freedom, his story serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by LGBTQ+ individuals around the world. It is crucial for allies and advocates to stand in solidarity with those who are marginalized and oppressed, working towards a more inclusive and accepting society for all.
Follow us on: Facebook for more LGBTQ+ news and updates at TrueQueer.
Grindr
