US hails world move to end violence against gays

THE United States has hailed an initiative signed by more than 80 countries to urge the international community to end violence against homosexual, bisexual and transgender individuals.

"Today, 85 countries from every region of the world joined together in a historic moment to state clearly that human rights apply to everyone, no matter who they are or whom they love," Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said.

"Countries around the world participated, including many that had never supported such efforts. And we hope that even more countries will step up," she added in a statement.

The international declaration called on states to "take steps to end acts of violence, criminal sanctions and related human rights violations committed against individuals because of their sexual orientation or gender identity."

It was presented at the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva.

Clinton said the move was "an example of America's commitment to human rights through dialogue, open discussion and frank conversation with countries we don't always agree with on every issue."

"Gay rights are human rights and human rights are gay rights," she added.

The White House also put out a statement supporting the move.

"The president is proud of the work we have done to build international consensus on this critical issue and is committed to continuing our determined efforts to advance the human rights of all people," it said.

It added that President Barack Obama had agreed with Brazil's President Dilma Rousseff to promote respect for gay rights by establishing a special rapporteur on such issues at the Organization of American States.


(2011-3-23/heraldsun.com)