Jamaica Observer's Clovis illustrates the sentiments
More international pressure is being applied on Jamaica to repeal laws believed to be infringing on the human rights of vulnerable groups including gays, lesbians, bisexuals and transgendered (LGBT) people.
The latest round of calls for Jamaica to act came during today’s United Nations periodic review of Jamaica’s human rights records in Switzerland.
Jamaica has been facing calls for years to repeal its more than a century-old buggery law, which makes it a criminal offence for persons to engage in anal sex.
During this morning’s review, calls came from representatives of several countries, including Canada, Sweden, and the United States for Jamaica to change its laws and address cultural issues that are out of step with global human rights provisions.
The representative from Great Britain, Matthew Buckley, took issue with the fact that changes to the Charter of Fundamental Rights and Freedoms did not protect against discrimination on grounds of sexual orientation.
In 2011, British prime minister, David Cameron, threatened to withhold aid from governments that do not reform legislation banning homosexuality.
However, Justice Minister Mark Golding had earlier told the panel that several steps have been taken to safeguard the rights of all, including implementation of a diversity policy for the police.
Lobbyists believe the removal of the buggery law will help in HIV/AIDs prevention and treatment among members of the LGBT community.
However, last year, a local poll found that 91 per cent of Jamaicans believe lawmakers should not repeal the controversial buggery law.
also see:
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Jamaican Opposition Leader says he would allow homosexuals in his cabinet .
Opposition Leader sides with antigay groups on Referendum on The Buggery Law
Promised (I mean suggested) Conscience vote on Buggery law not a priority right now (yet again)
Foreign Affairs Minister says Govt should be cautious on gay rights issues in Jamaica
Promised Conscience Vote on Buggery in Jamaica was a fluke
PNP’s Bobby Pickersgill differs on Conscience Vote route to decide on Buggery Law
PNP's Damion Crawford says it's highly unlikely buggery review will happen ........ it's not important now
PM scolds gay-rights protesters in New York ........ challenges truthfulness of Homophobic Claims
Former Prime Minister PJ Patterson’s call for tolerance not genuine & sheer hypocrisy
Opposition leader (JLP) reiterates his call for a referendum on Buggery
Non Governmental Organization Consultant says JLP suggested Referendum on Buggery is not a good idea
Portia Reneges On Gay Promise says Gordon Robinson
Milk River PNP Councillor says no to buggery repeal ...
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