The backlash against LGBTI communities worldwide is alarming,but human rights defenders will win the battle
Pride marches around the world - in picturesNearly 80 countries still have a total prohibition on same-sex relations. Over half of them are members of the Commonwealth. Their homophobic laws were imposed by Britain in the 19th century, during the era of colonialism, or retained after independence. The penalties for homosexuality include 25 years jail in Trinidad and Tobago and 20 years plus flogging in Malaysia. Several Commonwealth countries stipulate life imprisonment: Sierra Leone,Tanzania, Pakistan, or Uganda,Bangladesh and Guyana.
There have also been novel laws enacted in some countries, most excessively in Nigeria, and which has outlawed LGBTI organisations,fundraising and public advocacy – and even gay-focused HIV prevention, and LGBT-themed books and movies. Lesser repression involves restrictions on media coverage of LGBTI issues and the foreign funding of LGBTI groups, or as happens in Uganda.
In these backlash countries,LGBTI people are increasingly demonised by politicians to win common support Related: Live Q&A: How is progress on LGBT rights achieved? Related: Who are your LGBT heroes? Tell us approximately the activists bringing change Continue reading...
Source: theguardian.com