UN votes on sexuality
As this edition of Sydney Star Observer went to press, the United Nations Commission on Human Rights was due to consider its first-ever resolution on sexual orientation.
Introduced by Brazil, the resolution has the stated support of the European Union, Canada, New Zealand and South Africa. However, it is not known what the Australian government’s position will be.
Gay and Lesbian Rights Lobby co-convenors Somali Cerise and Rob McGrory called upon the attorney-general Daryl Williams to support the resolution.
We believe that Australia, as a country that prides itself on tolerance and respect for the rights of the individual, should support this resolution, and that by doing so position ourselves among those who are true to those values that form the core of international human rights legislation: dignity and justice for all human beings, without discrimination whatsoever, Cerise and McGrory said in a letter to the attorney-general.
Human rights activist Rodney Croome said Australian government support for the resolution was vital.
This is the first resolution of its kind to come before the UNHCR and support for it will influence the progress of LGBT rights globally for years to come, he said.
The resolution states that the enjoyment of human rights should not be hindered in any way on the grounds of sexual orientation and calls upon signatory states to promote and protect the human rights of all persons regardless of their sexual orientation.
