PRESS RELEASE : UN Human Rights Council 56 – UK statement on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity [June 2024]

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 21 June 2024.

UK National Statement for the Interactive Dialogue with the Independent Expert on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity.

Thank you, Mr Vice President.

The United Kingdom welcomes the Independent Expert’s compelling first report on freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and association in relation to sexual orientation and gender identity.

Increasing attempts by state and non-state actors to rollback or undermine human rights – not only for LGBT individuals, but also for women, girls, and marginalised populations – are deeply concerning.

This report rightly highlights the harmful impact of abhorrent laws and policies that uphold outdated views on homosexuality, expand criminalisation for simply identifying as part of the LGBT community, or persecute those who defend human rights.

We must be robust in challenging anti-rights campaigns across the globe. Today in Russia, anyone accused of supporting LGBT rights can face persecution or imprisonment. These are appalling attempts by Russian authorities to create a climate of fear and restrict the rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and association.

Mr Vice President, let us be clear: we are not asking for special rights for LGBT people, but for all people to be afforded the same human rights; the ability to live with dignity and respect, without fear of violence or persecution simply because of who they are.

The UK will continue to defend human rights and freedoms for all, and we reaffirm our strong support for this important mandate.

Thank you.