European Parliament adopts first ever standalone resolution on universal decriminalisation of homosexuality and trans identities
On 19 April, the European Parliament debated the universal decriminalisation of homosexuality and trans identities; the accompanying resolution on the matter was adopted today. The topic was elicited by the recent developments in Uganda concerning the ‘Anti-Homosexuality Bill’, which criminalises homosexuality and consensual same-sex relations[1].
The adoption of the resolution is a landmark moment for universal decriminalisation of homosexuality as outlined in the Articles 24-26[2]. It reinforces the EU’s promotion of universal human rights in foreign policy and ensures that external actions shall be taken to consolidate and support democracy, the rule of law, human rights and the principles of international law, as outlined in Article 21 TEU. Equally, it unequivocally opposes the use of death penalty or criminalisation based on sexual orientation or gender identity globally.
International and Comparative SOGIESC Law - Professor Andreas R Ziegler 