Cidadania e direitos sexuais na África do Sul: reflexões sobre o reconhecimento legal das uniões entre pessoas do mesmo sexo

Abstract

This article analyses the path towards the construction of sexual rights related to same-sex conjugality in South Africa. Based on findings of the PhD research entitled "Citizenship and sexual rights: a comparative study on the legal recognition of same-sex unions in Brazil and South Africa", the paper addresses the way lesbian and gay activists have idealized and implemented the struggle to the legal recognition of same-sex couples in that country. The social and political context in South Africa will be discussed, with special emphasis on the transitional period to black majority rule. The strategies of action used by gays and lesbian activists and their main antagonists will also be scrutinized, together with the (un)intended results of their mobilizations in legal terms.