“This colonial law has Wider influence and stigma lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, heterosexual and homosexuals (LGBTIQ+) in general”, said High Commissioner for Human Rights, Michelle Bachelet.
She emphasized that all people have the right to equal protection, respect and exercise of their human rights, including everyone in the LGBTIQ+ community.
Open road
“Repealing Section 377A will help pave the way for constructive dialogue and greater understanding and acceptance and safety for LGBTIQ+ individuals In Singapore”.
According to news reports, the decision announced by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong in his national television address on Sunday, which effectively legalizes sex between men, is a “victory for mankind”.
However, Mr. Lee added that the Government will not seek any changes to the legal definition of marriage in Singapore, which will only be recognized between men and women. Furthermore, he said he would change the constitution to prevent any further challenges to the definition.
He did not say when the law would be repealed, which carries a sentence of up to two years in prison, although media reports say it has not been enforced for more than a decade.
Realize same-sex union
Ms. Bachelet said the plan to amend the constitution “to ensure that the legal definition of marriage is limited to an act between a man and a woman, The various human rights mechanisms of the United Nations have called on all States to legally recognize gay unions. – whether by making marriage available to same-sex couples or through other arrangements, such as civil partnerships – and has also called for mutual benefit and protection. “
She added that it is essential for Singapore law to protect the relationships “of all consenting partners, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity or gender identity.”
Abolish ‘Expedite’
She appealed to the Government “Promoting the abolition process and taking measures to protect the rights of LGBTIQ+ people”including the enactment of anti-discrimination laws including discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity and gender identity. “
Law 377A was enacted when Singapore was a British colony, and the city government chose to keep it on the statute books after independence in 1965.
According to the news reports, there has been growing support for LGBTIQ+ rights in recent years and a joint statement released by rights campaigners in Singapore described the news as a “hard victory”. won, a victory of love over fear.”
However, some conservative and religious groups have voiced opposition to the change, and the country’s broadcasting rules restrict content promoting what they call LGBTQ+ “lifestyles”.
