Organisational Background GALZ is a membership based organisation representing the collective interests of lesbians gays, bisexuals, transgenders and intersex (LGBTI) people who are a sexual minority in Zimbabwe. It is therefore an interest group focused on playing a catalytic role in promoting the rights of the marginalised sexual minorities. GALZ works to lobby for the rights of LGBTI and to influence reform through proposed changes in legislation. GALZ works as an intermediary representing the interests of its membership, since it has greater capacity to influence change, versus individual members. The objectives of GALZ are: · · · 7 To establish a democratic and accountable association in Zimbabwe that strives for the fullest participation of all members of the community in influencing policy making, achieving equity and attaining full and equal human, social and economic rights in all aspects of life for LGBTI persons; To establish, maintain and administer in a democratic collective and accountable manner, an LGBTI Community Centre that will provide venues for social, recreational, and educational activities, for legal assistance and for counselling services for members; To provide practical support, guidance and assistance to the LGBTI community in relation to various matters, including (but not limited to) law, security, health and general wellbeing. Supporting and exercising direct An Assessment of the impact of state sanctioned and unsanctioned raids on GALZ premises and gatherings