UNFPA Executive Director, Dr. Natalia Kanem, has spoken out against the criminalisation of homosexuality in some parts of the world.
In a statement, she emphasised that human rights are guaranteed for all individuals, regardless of their gender or sexual orientation.
Dr. Kanem expressed deep concern over the persecution of LGBTQI people, which not only violates their right to freedom of expression, liberty, privacy, and equality, but also has devastating public health consequences. She highlighted that such oppression hinders access to life-saving services and raises stigma and discrimination, particularly for people living with HIV, thus undermining efforts to control the HIV epidemic.
Dr. Kanem called for the protection, promotion, and fulfilment of the human rights of LGBTQI people worldwide, noting that such efforts would secure rights and choices for everyone.
UNFPA will continue to work with its partners to tackle the violence, discrimination, and exclusion faced by the LGBTQI community.
