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LGBT rights in 2011: a year of clear statements and flagrant violations

The Kaleidoscope Trust has published an overview of the year showing that while there have been strong statements in support of the rights of LGBT people, violations and abuses have continued in many parts of the world.

The report demonstrates that the risk of arrest, imprisonment and even execution faced by people accused of being gay is still a reality despite growing demands from around the world that LGBT rights be respected as basic human rights.

Lance Price, Director of the Kaleidoscope Trust, said:

“The past twelve months have seen two different stories when it comes to the rights of gay men and lesbians in particular. On the positive side, leading politicians from the US Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton, to Zimbabwe’s Prime Minister, Morgan Tsvangirai, have spoken out in favour of protecting the rights of LGBT people. The issue was high on the agenda for the United Nations and leaders of the Commonwealth. Some countries have pledged to get rid of laws that make it a crime to be gay.

“But on the ground, where it matters, there have been arrests, detentions and even reports of executions. In several countries attempts have been made to introduce new laws and tougher penalties to punish people for being gay or speaking up for LGBT rights.

“In the year to come even greater vigilance and action will be needed to try to ensure that the growing international support for ending discrimination and persecution is translated into a better future for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people on every continent.”

The full report is attached and can be found HERE >