Denied Work: An Audit On Job Discrimination On The Basis Of Gender Identity In South-East Asia

Discrimination and lack of equal employment opportunities are common experiences of trans people. For some, problems arise while they are already employed, especially when they are trying to engage in a social transition in the workplace. For many, however, problems arise at the job hiring stage. Identification documents and educational certificates often ‘out’ trans people, even when their physical appearance does not. With employers either prejudiced or anxious about the possible reactions of co- workers and customers, trans people don’t get hired.

This report looks into employment discrimination faced by transgender people while seeking employment in four countries in South-East Asia – Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam. The findings from this study provide direct evidence of discrimination against trans people in job hiring practices in the region.