Quick Hit: UN Approves LGBT Human Rights Resolution
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Image via isnblog.ethz.ch
Earlier today, the UN Human Rights Council voted on a resolution condemning discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. The historic resolution passed with 23 votes in favor, 19 votes against and three abstentions.
The resolution will launch a study to be conducted between now and December 2011 that will “document discriminatory laws and practices and acts of violence against individuals based on their sexual orientation and gender identity, in all regions of the world, and how international human rights law can be used to end violence and related human rights violations based on sexual orientation and gender identity.” When completed, the documentation will be reviewed by a panel during the 19th session of the Human Rights Council to determine appropriate follow-up actions.
This is the first time the UN Human Rights Council has proposed any resolution concerning sexual orientation or gender identity. The fact that this groundbreaking decree has passed is a huge step forward for the international LGBT community, and hopefully it will only lead to greater progress in equality around the world.
Towleroad has the full text of the resolution.
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12:45 pm
I might have been dancing up and down and all over the place when I read this
It’s just a first step, but anyone who’s researched the history of LGBT rights with the UN knows that it’s a first step that is a Long Time Coming. So thank God it’s finally here, and hopefully the ball will keep rolling in the right direction. In the meantime, I’m celebrating!