The African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, during its 55th Ordinary Session (28 April-12 May 2014) adopted the historic ‘Resolution on the Protection against Violence and other Human Rights Violations against Persons on the Basis of their Real or Imputed Sexual Orientation or Gender Identity’.
The resolution condemned acts of violence and systemic attacks by State and non-State actors against people because of their real or perceived sexual orientation and/or gender identity. It called on State Parties to ensure that human rights defenders work in an enabling environment that is free of stigma, reprisals or criminal prosecution as a result of their human rights protection activities, including the rights of sexual minorities. Finally, it urged States to end all acts of violence and abuse, whether committed by State or non-State actors, including by enacting and effectively applying appropriate laws and prohibiting all forms of violence including those targeting persons on the basis of their imputed or real sexual orientation or gender identity.
Since the adoption of the resolution, persecution has continued in some African states. Civil society organisations in the region have developed guidelines on implementing the resolution to prevent violence against people based on their sexual orientation and/or gender identity.
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