Historic move as Botswana courts decriminalise homosexuality

London, UK – 11 June 2019

Statement from Peter Tatchell, LGBT+ and Human Rights Campaigner:

“This is a historic decision that will embolden LGBT+ campaigners across Africa. It is another blow to the homophobic laws that were imposed on many African countries by Britain during the colonial era. Yet again it is the courts, rather than governments, that are often leading the way in ending anti-LGBT+ persecution. Similar legal victories have also been won in the last year in India and Trinidad and Tobago. ”

“The global trend is towards the decriminalisation of same-sex relations. Bhutan is striking down its anti-gay laws. Angola did the same earlier this year. So far, nearly two-thirds of the world’s countries now have no laws penalising homosexuality but over one third continue to do so. Despite progress, there is still much work to do to ensure that LGBT+ people worldwide are free and equal.”