BRUSSELS, November 16, 2006 (ILGA-Europe)  –  In 1996 the General Assembly of the United Nations invited member states to observe the International Day of Tolerance on 16 November.

ILGA-Europe welcomes all international initiatives promoting the issues of human rights and equality, tolerance and anti-discrimination.

Nevertheless ILGA-Europe points out that there is still not a single all encompassing international treaty which specifically condemns and outlaws discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression.

ILGA, ILGA-Europe and various ILGA members are still fighting hostility at the UN level – all applications from lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) organisations for a consultative status with the UN’s Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) have been refused.

“Tolerance is a key factor for building the world where every human being is valued and respected regardless her/his differences or characteristics,” Patricia Prendiville, Executive Director of ILGA-Europe, said last night.

“While changing existing and introducing news laws which provide LGBT people with protection from discrimination and equal rights is essential and welcomed, a lot of effort and work needs to be invested and done to promote understanding, acceptance and respect of all our differences. Education and open dialogue are the instruments for enhancing tolerance and respect.”

LINKS

ILGA-Europe website