Summary
29 April 2009
The religious authorities in Thailand say they're introducing a 'good manners curriculum' to discourage behaviour seen as effeminate. The guidelines are aimed at curbing the flamboyant behaviour of gay and transgender monks.
Reporter:
Andre Vornic
Thai monks
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The religious authorities say they're responding to increasing irritation among more conservative Thai clerics and members of the public with behaviour perceived as effeminate.
They're aiming to reduce or eliminate the wearing of make-up and tight robes by younger priests, and generally attitudes that suggest homosexual activity.
Of all Asian countries, Thailand is perhaps the most tolerant of homosexuality, which is often open and flamboyant. But it's still considered largely incompatible with Buddhist priesthood, with its traditions of celibacy and self-discipline.
Andre Vornic, 大象传媒
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Vocabulary
- increasing irritation
- feeling more and more annoyed and/or impatient
- clerics
- priests
- perceived
- here, seen
- effeminate
- used disapprovingly to describe a man who behaves or looks similar to a woman
- eliminate the wearing of make-up
- stop from putting on facial cosmetics (e.g. lipstick, mascara etc.)
- suggest
- here, may lead you think of, hint at
- tolerant of
- accepting (other people's different views)
- flamboyant
- intended to be noticed (especially by wearing brightly coloured clothes)
- incompatible with
- against, not suited with
- celibacy
- not having sexual activity (especially for religious reasons)
