WASHINGTON, DC—Tewodros Melesse, Director-General of the London-based International Planned Parenthood Federation ( IPPF ), has posted a blog on the Huffington Post, urging supporters of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender ( LGBT ) rights to renew their fight around the Globe in the wake of recent setbacks.
Recent human rights infringements and discriminatory government actions in Australia, Nigeria, Uganda and Russia have led IPPF to reassert its unconditional support for gay rights. "We must stand firm where LGBT people and their rights come under attack—at the Olympics, in court rooms, Parliaments and in the streets," Melesse wrote.
"Sexual rights are human rights, and people should be able to determine how they live their lives without fear of attack, legal sanction or bigotry of any kind. We've made progress, but there's still a long way to go," he adds. "When extremist opportunistic politicians, religious leaders, or parts of the media whip up hatred and hysteria about LGBT people, then someone somewhere is likely to be maimed or murdered."
Melesse's full blog can be read at: www.huffingtonpost.com/tewodros-melesse/lgbt-rights-under-fire-ar_b_4846628.html .
On May 13, 2014, IPPF will be launching a campaign to promote sexual and reproductive health and rights to leaders across the world. Its Vision2020 Declaration can be found at: ippf.org/vision2020 .
Founded in 1952, the London-based International Planned Parenthood Federation ( IPPF ) is both a service provider and an advocate of sexual and reproductive health and rights. The organization is a worldwide network of 152 Member Associations active in over 170 countries. Learn more at www.ippf.org .
