SEEN

Episode 3: The Syrian Penal Code

An exploration of law, history, and the criminalization of sexuality in Syria.
The third episode of "M-GENDER-A" delves into the historical and contemporary aspects of Syrian and Ottoman legal frameworks regarding sexual acts and their changing perceptions. It spans centuries, from the Ottoman Empire to 20th-century Europe, highlighting how societal, cultural, and political influences shaped laws around sexuality.

This episode explores the dynamic nature of sexual norms, particularly in relation to the LGBTQ+ community, showcasing evolving legal and social perspectives. It also delves into the historical and legal contexts of sexual conduct in the Middle East, with a focus on Syria and Lebanon during French occupation and post-independence.

The episode addresses the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in Syria, where laws are sometimes misused to target them, resulting in arrests, coerced confessions, and privacy violations. It discusses the government's selective application of amnesty laws, excluding those charged with offenses related to public morality.