Johnson, CarolAsiaPacificQueer Network2011-09-282011-09-282005Johnson, C. (2005, July). Same-sex issues in a cross-cultural perspective: The strange similarities between John Howard and Mahathir Mohamad. Paper presented at Sexualities, Genders and Rights in Asia: 1st International Conference of Asian Queer Studies. Bangkok, Thailand: AsiaPacifiQueer Network, Mahidol University; Australian National Universityhttp://hdl.handle.net/1885/8670"This paper focuses on the Howard government’s opposition to the recognition of same-sex relationships in Australia. That case study is then contrasted with the views of a very different politician, whose “Asian values” approach has led to critiques of western attitudes towards homosexuality, namely Dr Mahathir Mohamad. Contrary to Mahathir’s analysis, his own views are shown to show strong similarities with those of John Howard. In short, while there may be significant differences in the lgbtq identities across cultures, there can be surprising similarities in the heteronormative discourses which marginalise those identities"AsiaPacifiQueer Network, Australian National University17 pagesapplication/pdfen-AUAuthor/s retain copyrightGay rights -- Asia -- Congresses.Gay culture -- Asia -- Congresses.Gay culture -- Asia -- Social conditions -- Congresses.Gay community -- Asia -- Congresses.Gay community.Gay culture.Gay rights.Asia.Same-sex issues in a cross-cultural perspective: the strange similarities between John Howard and Mahathir Mohamad