HUMAN RIGHTS, SEXUAL ORIENTATION AND GENDER IDENTITY – UN HRC RESOLUTION – 2014

The resolution recalls the global human rights obligations under the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) along with the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR) and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR).

The resolution expresses grave concern at acts of violence and discrimination committed globally against individuals because of their sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI). However, it also welcomes the positive developments in the fight against violence and discrimination based on SOGI.

The resolution takes note of the report titled “Discriminatory laws and practices and acts of violence against individuals based on their sexual orientation and gender identity” and the panel discussion in the 19th session of the HRC. Further, it requests the High Commissioner to update the report in line with existing human rights law and standards and to present it to the Human Rights Council at its 29th session.

VOTES

The Resolution passed with a recorded vote of 25 to 14 with 7 abstentions with the effect that the further panel discussion would take place and the report would be updated.
This did not garner the support of any of the South Asian countries: Bangladesh and Nepal declined to take part in the vote; Pakistan voted against the Resolution, and India abstained.

 

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