Launched to coincide with the International Day against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT) on Sunday, May 17, the Commonwealth Forum has brought together the testimonies of its members in an animation, narrated by UN Independent Expert, Victor Madrigal-Borloz. The animation highlights the work of human rights defenders across the Commonwealth, to protect rights, and promote acceptance and inclusion, and calls for continued action to create a world where everyone can thrive.
In the Commonwealth, nearly two-thirds of countries still criminalise same-sex activity between adults and many people continue to face discrimination, violence and abuse, based on their sexual orientation or gender identity. National Human Rights Institutions work to promote and uphold the human rights of LGBTQ+ people.
David Isaac, Chair of the Commonwealth Forum, which is currently overseen by the Equality and Human Rights Commission in Britain, said: ‘Networks like the Commonwealth Forum of National Human Rights Institutions bring together human rights experts from around the world to share intelligence and improve collective action to protect and enhance human rights both locally and internationally.
‘We know that there is still much more to be done to protect LGBTQ+ rights at home and across the Commonwealth. However, today we are proud to join the many organisations marking IDAHOBIT, and to lend our voice to help break the silence and end stigma and discrimination against LGBTQ+ people in all its forms.’
More info on the Commonwealth Forum of National Human Rights Institutions, visit: https://cfnhri.org