Decriminalization of homosexuality at the United Nations

[Guest guest]

Posted in Manhunt.net

Members of The United Nations General Assembly attempted to take on

the issue of gay rights and were very divided. On Thursday, a French-

Dutch resolution called for international decriminalization of

homosexuality, since 86 countries deem it illegal, with 7 employing

the death penalty. This joint statement garnered 66 votes, and one

notable absence was the United States, which doesn't plan on signing

the statement.

An opposing statement argues that such an act could lead to " the

social normalization, and possibly the legitimization, of many

deplorable acts including pedophilia. " This view was unfortunately

backed by most Arab nations, Russia, and China, garnering around 60

votes.

I think the fact that it is being brought up in the U.N is a step

forward, but the United States refusing to sign it is beyond me. How

can we claim to lead the world on human rights and justice and not

sign this? What do others think?

You can read the text of the statement here.

http://www.petertatchell.net/international/UNwatershedforgayrights.htm