The objective of the launch is to officially present the validated and finalized SOGIR report, including findings and recommendations on key human rights challenges experienced by lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people in Liberia. These legal provisions also have a wider social effect by creating a permissive environment for discrimination, harassment, intimidation and violence against people of diverse sexual orientation and gender identity. Additionally, the report highlights that people face discrimination in employment, health, housing, education and access to essential services based on their real or perceived sexual orientation or gender identity. The report welcomes the fact that the National Human Rights Action Plan and the National HIV and AIDS Strategic Plan make reference to people of diverse sexual orientation and gender identity, but calls for stronger legal and policy measures to protect individuals from violence and discrimination based their on sexual orientation and gender identity. It also highlights that human rights defenders should be allowed to do their work on these issues without fear of threats, harassment or restrictions.

Source: Front Page Africa November 12, 2020 15:22 UTC