Observatory for Sociopolitical Developments in Europe’s Post

[Latest News] The Centre for Human Rights, University of Pretoria co-hosted a consultative meeting with United Nations Independent Expert on SOGI, (Graeme Reid) on the next thematic mandate report. The discussions underscored the pressing challenges faced by #LGBTQ+ communities across the world, including pervasive stigma, targeted violence, direct and indirect legal barriers as well as the ‘chilling effect’ of laws and practices targeting the #LGBTIQ+ community. As we await the release of the thematic report, let's reflect on the importance of challenging discriminatory laws and policies that undermine the rights of #LGBTIQ+ individuals. https://lnkd.in/dd-YwNmh

Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights Dunja Mijatović finds “shockingly high rates of discrimination, violence and insecurity trans people experience in their daily lives” in a report examining human rights of trans people. The report recognises the backsliding of human rights, instrumentalisation of marginalised people for political gain, and the increasing political and social power of anti-trans and anti-LGBTQ+ movements. The Commissioner sets out fifteen recommendations. These are where #Ireland is lacking: 🟰 recognising gender identity and expression in as prohibited grounds in anti-discrimination legislation 🚫 bans on conversion practices ⚖️ including a third legal gender, and reviewing the need for gender markers on documents at all ⚕️ensuring access to high-quality healthcare in line with WHO best practice, i.e. not requiring mental health assessment/diagnosis 🏫 schools should recognise trans young people’s names, pronouns and identities ⚽️ trans people should have equal access to sport participation and competition These are primary policy and advocacy areas for Transgender Equality Network Ireland, so it’s great to see them reflected by the Council! Read the full report here - https://lnkd.in/gVDGZvcp #equality #gender #transrights #transrightsarehumanrights

What is the #EU doing for #equality for #LGBTIQ people? In 2020, a Europe-wide strategy was published for the first time that focuses on combating discrimination and dangers faced by queer people, ensuring their safety and improving their living situation. To implement the goals and concrete suggestions for action, a working group was set up by the European Commission, which has now met for the tenth time in #Brussels. The #Observatory is a member of this group. You can find detailed information about our diverse work on the topic here: https://lnkd.in/gqQT6yiY #rainbowfamilies #hatecrime #RainbowEurope #socialrights #GenderEquality #queerrights #LGBTIQEqualityIntheEU

In April, we met with over 20 activists and legal experts in Colombia to kick off a series of convenings to develop recommendations for the Principles on the Crime of Gender Persecution (an initiative supported by Dalberg Catalyst through grant funding from The Rockefeller Foundation), a guide for governments, humanitarian rights groups, and others to prevent gender persecution and take appropriate action when it occurs. The Principles presents an opportunity to address the discrimination that leads to gender-based violence, take the term "gender persecution" beyond courtrooms, and change the way it is approached in our day-to-day. “Naming … the crime of gender persecution is definitely an opportunity to investigate the structures of power. That’s why it’s so important." Universidad de Los Andes https://bit.ly/3zm2YJE

Ghana's "Human Sexual Rights and Family Values," as passed by Parliament yesterday, is nothing short of extreme. It takes the unprecedented step of criminalizing "holding out" as LGBTQ or an an ally. That's right, if you say you are an ally to LGBTQ people, you face three years in jail. In a further totalitarian move that is shocking coming from a purported democracy, the bill shuts down democratic engagement around criminal justice by prohibiting any act "aimed at changing public opinion toward an act prohibited under this Act." That's right, you can't write op-eds about how same-sex conduct should be decriminalized or express any public dissent that has the objective of impacting anyone's thinking. If you're queer, you can't explain your identity to family members or colleagues to convince them to accept you - that would "change public opinion." If your queer family member is arrested, you can't call out the injustice around the arrest - that would aim to change public opinion. Ghana's parliament has, in one move, rubbished the country's credentials as an open society. More from Outright: https://lnkd.in/e47NuQFw

A Historic Briefing: Colombia's LGBTQ Community Takes Center Stage at the UN Security Council_ Summary On April 9, 2024, Marcela Sánchez, Executive Director of Colombia Diversa, made history by becoming the first person to brief the United Nations Security Council on LGBTQ issues in a conflict setting. This report summarizes the key points from the briefing and provides additional context and recommendations for advancing LGBTQ rights and inclusion in peacebuilding and conflict resolution. Background Colombia's 52-year conflict has disproportionately affected LGBTQ individuals, who have faced targeted violence, discrimination, and marginalization. Colombia Diversa has tirelessly advocated for their rights, pushing for inclusive peacebuilding and justice. The current situation in Colombia is marked by ongoing peace talks and a fragile transition towards peace, making it a critical moment for LGBTQ voices to be heard. #InclusivePeacebuilding #LGBTQInclusion #PeaceAndJustice

Key Points - Sánchez's briefing was a first for the Security Council, highlighting the need for LGBTQ inclusion in conflict resolution . - Colombia Diversa's tireless efforts have documented the devastating impact of the conflict on LGBTQ individuals . - The Special Jurisdiction for Peace (JEP) has made history by recognizing gender-based persecution, including sexual orientation and gender identity . - Sánchez presented five key recommendations to the Security Council, emphasizing full participation, safety, and justice for LGBTQ individuals . - Successful initiatives like the LGBTQ Justice and Peace Program have promoted LGBTQ inclusion and protection in Colombia's peace process . Significance This briefing sets a vital precedent for future peace processes, recognizing LGBTQ rights as integral to conflict resolution. Colombia's inclusive approach serves as a model, demonstrating the importance of LGBTQ voices in shaping lasting peace. Recommendations - The Security Council must prioritize LGBTQ inclusion and protection in peacebuilding efforts . - International support for organizations like Colombia Diversa and Outright International is crucial for advancing LGBTQ rights worldwide . - Governments and organizations must take concrete actions to support LGBTQ inclusion and protection, including providing resources and funding for LGBTQ-led initiatives . Additional Quotes - "This briefing is a testament to the power of LGBTQ voices in shaping peace and justice." - Marcela Sánchez, Executive Director of Colombia Diversa . - "We must prioritize LGBTQ inclusion and protection in all peacebuilding efforts." - Francesca Gatt, Representative of Malta to the UN . About Outright International Outright International is a leading organization advocating for LGBTQ rights globally. Their work supports LGBTQ individuals and communities in conflict zones, promoting inclusive peacebuilding and justice . Resources - Colombia Diversa: [website] - Outright International: [website] - UN Security Council: [website] Future Directions The briefing marks a crucial step towards recognizing LGBTQ rights in conflict settings. Future directions include: - Continued advocacy for LGBTQ inclusion and protection in peacebuilding efforts - Increased support for LGBTQ-led initiatives and organizations - Further research and documentation of LGBTQ experiences in conflict zones References - LGBT+ Rights and Peace in Colombia: The Paradox Between Law and Reality - Colombia's Peace Tribunal Breaks New Ground on LGBTQ Persecution - Colombia - Outright International - LGBT rights in Colombia - Wikipedia Additional Resources - The LGBTQ Justice and Peace Program: A Model for Inclusive Peacebuilding - Colombia's LGBTQ Community: A History of Resilience and Activism - The Importance of LGBTQ Inclusion in Peace and Security Efforts #LGBTQRights #ColombiaPeaceProcess #UNSecurityCouncil

🌈 **Today is International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT).** (It's a crucial day for reflection and action.) The fight against discrimination is far from over. Millions worldwide still face prejudice simply for being themselves. **Here are some startling facts:** 1. **Criminalization**: ↳ Around the world, 67 countries still criminalize same-sex relationships, with 10 imposing the death penalty [oai_citation:1,UN marks International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia | UN News](https://lnkd.in/gUiNA5rF) [oai_citation:2,International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia 2023](https://lnkd.in/gHrknw6G). 2. **Violence and Discrimination**: ↳ In some countries, up to 85% of LGBTQ+ students experience homophobic and transphobic violence at school [oai_citation:3,Report shows homophobic and transphobic violence in education to be a global problem | UNESCO](https://lnkd.in/g-UG_jni). 3. **Legal Progress**: ↳ From 1990 to 2023, the number of countries criminalizing private, consensual same-sex relationships decreased from 113 to 64 [oai_citation:4,International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT) | United Nations Development Programme](https://lnkd.in/gJAJkfjT). **Here's how we can make a difference:** 1. **Educate Yourself and Others** ↳ Understand the struggles the LGBTQ+ community faces. ↳ Share this knowledge to foster empathy and allyship. 2. **Speak Up Against Discrimination** ↳ Silence can be interpreted as acceptance. ↳ Use your voice to challenge homophobia, biphobia, and transphobia whenever you encounter it. 3. **Support LGBTQ+ Organizations** ↳ Donate, volunteer, or amplify their messages. ↳ These organizations are on the front lines of creating safer, more inclusive communities. 4. **Be an Active Ally** ↳ Stand by your LGBTQ+ friends, colleagues, and family members. ↳ Show your support in both public and private settings. **We all have a role to play.** This isn't just an LGBTQ+ issue; it's a human rights issue. Let’s work together to build a world where everyone is free to be who they are without fear. P.S. What's one action you'll take today to support the LGBTQ+ community? Comment below. ♻️ **Repost this to spread awareness. Thank you!**

𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐝𝐞 𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐡: 𝐂𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐋𝐆𝐁𝐓𝐐+ 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐚𝐠𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐬𝐭 𝐝𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 🏳️🌈 LGBTQ+ rights in Latin America have seen significant progress, but challenges remain. Countries like #Argentina, #Brazil and #Uruguay have led with progressive laws, including same-sex marriage and gender identity rights. However, discrimination and violence persist, with LGBTQ+ individuals often facing societal and institutional hurdles. Activism and advocacy continue to push for equality, with vibrant #Pride movements and legal battles hoping to shape a more #inclusive future. 👉 Read more: https://lnkd.in/e4FpRhD4 #deheza #tidings #latam #intel #LGBTQ+ #rights #equality #genderidentity #pridemonth

‼️ Ban Conversion Practices in the EU ✍🏼 SIGN THE ECI HERE: https://lnkd.in/e_mina8R For International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT), LGBTI+ organisations from all over the EU launched a European Citizens’ Initiative to ban conversion therapy in the EU. This is a chance for our community, friends, family and allies to use their voice in protecting the safety and well-being of all LGBTI+ EU citizens. From today, we have one year to gather one million signatures to ban conversion practices in the European Union with 9000 needed specifically from Ireland. 🏳️🌈🏳️⚧️ Click the ECI link at the top of this post to sign the initiative and share it with your friends 🏳️🌈🏳️⚧️ — What is an ECI? 📌 An European Citizens’ Initiative is the only tool of participatory democracy in the European Union. When the goal of one million signatures is reached, the European Commission will have to answer our request! — What are conversion practices? 📌 Also known as “conversion therapy”, conversion practices are human-rights-violating interventions aimed at changing the sexual orientation or gender identity of LGBTQI+ people. — How can you help? 📌 Sign the ECI in the link in bio, share the initiative with your friends and family, repost on your stories, talk about it with the people around you! Together we will ban conversion practices across the EU. #banconversiontherapy #lgbtireland #transgenderireland #lgbteurope #transrightsireland #lgbtrightsireland #lgbtqiarights #psychotherapyireland #counsellingireland #lgbtrightsarehumanrights #transrightsarehumanrights #banconversiontherapy