Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) network

Amnesty and our LGBT Network works to expose these human rights abuses. We challenge governments and state authorities to fulfil their responsibility to protect LGBT people from such abuses.

Amnesty works to protect human rights defenders who put themselves at risk by speaking out against human rights abuses based on sexuality or gender identity.

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

Baltic Pride saved: Baltic Pride went ahead for the first time in Lithuania on Saturday 8 May 2010 as planned. The Vilnius City Administrative Court had temporarily suspended the march on account of the risk of clashes with counter-demonstrators. However, a higher court later ruled that the event could take place. Dalia Grybauskaite, president of Lithuania and the target of our appeal to save the celebration, said groups or organisations, unless banned by law, had the right to express their opinion as guaranteed by the Constitution of the country.

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

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.

 About the LGBT Network

The LGBT Network is made up of Amnesty members (and affiliated groups) who are interested in raising awareness and campaigning against human rights violations based on sexual orientation or gender identity. Members of the network can take part in a range of activities and will receive our regular e-newsletter. Register online