Phenomenological analysis of lived experiences within the LGBTQ+ community in Rwanda

Despite the existence of laws protecting human rights in Rwanda, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) people continue to face discrimination with its roots in cultural, religious, and moral beliefs. This study explored the lived experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals using a phenomenological design. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and digital storytelling with 57 participants from six districts. Participants were recruited through purposive and snowball sampling, ensuring homogeneity and representation. A thematic queer phenomenological analysis was performed. Guided by the socioecological model, the analysis identified five key themes revealing experiences across individual, interpersonal, community, organisational, and policy levels. Findings highlight internalised stigma, family rejection, misinformation, and discrimination in healthcare and employment. While prior studies have noted the absence of legal protections, this study revealed how legal ambiguity is lived as an embodied and multilevel experience, shaping identity expression and the everyday navigation of heteronormativity spaces. Despite challenges, community-based organisations fostered resilience and belonging. Findings highlight the need to consider the lived experiences of LGBTQ+ community members when educating society about gender and sexual orientation, as well as designing inclusive programmes and policies across these levels to protect members of this community.