Thank you, Mr President
Let me begin by thanking the Independent Expert for his recent visit to the United Kingdom, and for this latest report. We recognise the important role of faith leaders – across religions and denominations – who continue to call for an end to the violence and discrimination faced by LGBT+ people, and to ensure dignity of all.
The UK Government will always stand up for the right to freedom of religion or belief but we cannot and will not shy away from challenging practices that promote violence and discrimination.
Globally, we are witnessing a worrying rise in efforts seeking to undermine the human rights and freedoms of LGBT+ people. We are appalled that the Government of Uganda has supported the deeply discriminatory Anti-Homosexuality Bill. As we mark 75 years of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, we remind all states of their obligations to uphold the human rights for all.
We reaffirm our strong commitment to this mandate and its vital importance in ending human rights violations experienced by LGBT+ people around the world.
Finally, Mr Victor Madrigal-Borloz, thank you for your incredible dedication and resolve to advance human rights and equality for all. Your unwavering commitment has delivered positive, global change for many LGBT+ people and given hope to many more.
Thank you.