News

More news, success stories and campaign updates relating to the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender network.

Uganda Anti-homosexuality bill not passed

The Ugandan Anti-Homosexuality Bill has not been passed. We had called on the Ugandan parliament to reject the Bill, but in the end parliament dissolved without debating or voting on it.

It's entirely possible that the Bill could be reintroduced when new members of parliament are sworn in this week and we will be watching the situation closely. Thanks to all of you who took the time to take action on this.

The proposed Law included the introduction of the death penalty for 'aggravated homosexuality', punishment for those who do not report violations of the Bill's provisions within 24 hours, and the criminalisation of the 'promotion' of homosexuality.

More good news

Argentina legalises same-sex marriage:  On 15 July 2010, Argentina became the first country in Latin America to legalise same-sex marriage. The law also paves the way for same-sex couples to adopt. This landmark step follows years of sustained campaigning by LGBT activists in Argentina. Read more

Turkey: Black Pink Triangle to stay open The judge rejected the application to close the LGBT organisation based in Izmir  'Because, like every human being, lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender individuals also have the freedom of association, I rule against the application to close the association'. View photos of LGBT action from Amnesty Turkey

Belgrade Pride 2010

The first LGBT Pride Parade for nearly ten years ended in violence as an handful of objectors to the march hurled stones and explosives at the police. Read our blog from Belgrade Pride 

Malawi: couple released but at risk of re-arrest

Steven Monjeza and Tiwonge Chimbalanga were arrested after holding a traditional engagement ceremony and convicted on 18 May 2010 on charges of "gross indecency" and "unnatural acts". The couple were sentenced to 14 years in prison with hard labour.

Following a meeting between UN Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon and President Bingu wa Mutharika during the Secretary-General's visit to Malawi, Steven and Tiwonge were granted a presidential pardon on 29 May 2010 and released from prison. President Mutharika stated that the pardon was granted on humanitarian grounds. It only applies to the offence under which Steven and Tiwonge were convicted. Under Malawi's current laws against homosexuality, the couple remains at risk of re-arrest if they continue their relationship. Read more

Thank you to everyone who took action calling for the couple's release.