Congress 2014 Resolution 76 - International LGBT rights

Congress notes with concern the findings of the EU Fundamental Rights Agency survey showing an increase of deliberate, sustained and violent attacks on LGBT people.

Congress asserts that a major factor in the rise in homophobic and transphobic extremism is the punitive and discriminatory laws in countries such as Russia, India, Nigeria and Uganda that criminalise and stigmatise LGBT communities.

Congress is deeply concerned that these laws empower authorities to abuse, harass, extort, imprison and execute people on the grounds of their sexuality or gender identity.

Congress condemns the Ugandan Anti-Homosexuality Bill, dubbed the ‘Kill the Gays Bill’ which not only incites increased violence against LGBT people, but also justifies and legalises these actions.

Congress further asserts that these laws directly contravene international human rights obligations, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Congress endorses the work of affiliates with the global trade union movement to campaign against these human rights abuses and calls on the TUC and affiliates to:

i     press the UK government to use its international influence to end the continuing human rights abuses in these countries

ii    work with affiliates and campaign groups to establish a robust global campaign for the elimination of anti gay laws that criminalise homosexuality

iii   develop a Trade Union Charter on International LGBT Solidarity, including a commitment to campaign with unions/organisations in countries concerned; pressure for governments to take strong action on countries violating LGBT rights; awareness-raising throughout unions on international LGBT atrocities; and encourage unions’ international departments/leads to prioritise LGBT issues and employer/contractor guidance and support for LGBT members working abroad.