Page 333 - RUICHSS 2023 Proceeding

University of Ruhuna ISSN: 2706-0063
Matara, Sri Lanka

4. Scope and Significance of the Study

In order to understand the experiences and perspectives of LGBT+ people in

a nation where same-sex relationships are illegal; it is important and pertinent

to examine the role that social media plays in promoting the identity of
homosexuality in Sri Lanka. By studying how LGBT+ people use social media

to express their identities and interact with like-minded people, this study adds
to the body of knowledge on LGBT+ issues in Sri Lanka. A thorough

knowledge of the experiences and opinions of LGBT+ people in Sri Lanka on

the use of social media in promoting their identities is made possible by the
study's mixed-methods approach. The results of this study have important

policy and practice ramifications because they emphasise how crucial it is to
provide LGBT+ people in Sri Lanka with safe spaces and welcoming

surroundings. According to the study, social media gives LGBT+ people a
platform to express themselves and find support, which can improve their

well-being and social inclusion. The research did note, however, the

difficulties and dangers of promoting LGBT+ identities on social media, such
as the possibility of discrimination and exposure to hate speech.

According to one of the key findings of the study, social media is vital in
raising the visibility and knowledge of LGBT+ problems in Sri Lanka. As per

the study, LGBT+ people may use social media as a platform to raise
awareness of LGBT+ rights and challenges in Sri Lanka, which may boost the

visibility and comprehension of LGBT+ identities and experiences. This result
is in line with other research that showed how social media may help
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