UK statement for the Interactive dialogue with the Independent Expert on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity. Delivered by the UK's Human Rights Ambassador, Eleanor Sanders.
We thank the Independent Expert for his steadfast commitment and inclusive approach to his mandate.
We welcome the Independent Expert's latest report. The report rightly highlights that forcibly displaced LGBT+ people face heightened risks of violence, discrimination and neglect.
The UK is fully committed to the promotion and protection of human rights, including for displaced LGBT+ persons. In recent years we have increased funding to organisations that support displaced LGBT+ persons, strengthening their organisational resilience and enabling delivery of critical services.
It is, however, important to recognise that many of the root causes of displacement highlighted in the report are a consequence of deep-rooted stigma and discriminatory laws and policies that criminalise LGBT+ people.
The UK would welcome further reflections from the Independent Expert on steps states could take to ensure that all people are protected from violence and discrimination, including on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity.
Finally, we reaffirm our strong commitment to the renewal of the Independent Expert's mandate, noting its vital importance in ending the violence and discrimination experienced by LGBT+ people around the world.
Thank you.
