Why LGBT hatred suddenly spiked in Indonesia
(The Guardian Indonesia)

While other Asian countries make progress on LGBT rights, an unexpected wave of bigotry and anger broke out in Indonesia last yearWho are 2017´s LGBT heroes? Tell us about the activists creating changeA few nights ago Sudarsa received a text message from his ex-boyfriend Hendro. `I can´t sleep because I´m missing you,` it read.The pair had been together for seven years. But two years ago Hendro, struggling to be open about his sexuality, succumbed to family pressure and married a woman. Related: There are reasons to be cheerful ... LGBTI rights gains in unlikely countries Now the [LGBT] community is demanding more freedom, it really is a threat ... it´s dangerousThe impact was higher incidents of violence. Houses were raided, LGBT people were evicted Related: `The exorcism was over in 15 minutes but nothing changed` - LGBT life in Nigeria The fear was deeper this time around in part because it was driven by high-level government officials Related: Who are 2017`s LGBT heroes? Tell us about the activists creating change Continue reading...