Peru’s government has officially reclassified transgender identity as a mental health disorder in new national health guidelines, sparking fierce debate. Supporters hail the move as a return to “scientific logic,” arguing that gender dysphoria—distress over one’s biological sex—has long been recognized as a psychological condition.

The policy aligns Peru with a handful of nations resisting global LGBTQ+ advocacy, framing transgender identity as a treatable mental health issue rather than an innate characteristic.

Proponents argue this approach prioritizes therapy over medical transition for minors and protects traditional values. LGBTQ+ activists warn it will fuel discrimination and restrict access to gender-affirming care, which major health organizations, including the WHO, no longer classify as a mental illness.

Many praised Peru for “resisting ideological with this rational norm.”

Go Peru !

janus