Gay state lawmakers spearheading effort
Envoy has visited more than 20 countries since April
LGBT groups criticize inclusion of Brunei, Malaysia
Gathering took place on eve of bishops’ gathering on the family
Transgender, intersex people no longer need to undergo surgery
Advocates protested government officials during opening plenary
Ambassador says violence indicative of country’s challenges
Surgery increasingly seen as health benefit
Violence, discrimination, poverty among topics discussed
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