1

Giorgia Caira
Ms. Aylesworth
May 15th, 2015
Global Perspectives
Laws and Violence Against Homosexuals

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Table of Content

Preface ...................................................................................................................................... 3-4

Background: ........................................................................................................................... 5-6
Expert: ...................................................................................................................................... 7-7
Role of Control: ...................................................................................................................... 8-9
Religion/Spirituality ........................................................................................................ 9-10
Logic of Evil: ....................................................................................................................... 11-12
Case studies ....................................................................................................................... 13-22
Uganda
13-16
Pakistan
17-19
Malaysia
20-22
International World Organizations ........................................................................... 23-26
United Nations
23-24
Amnesty International
24-25
Human Rights Watch
26
Canada ................................................................................................................................. 27-29
Solutions ............................................................................................................................. 30-31
Conclusion ................................................................................................................................ 31
Appendices....32-35
Work Cited 36-41

Preface
It is deemed from the Universal Declaration of Human Rights that all humans
are born free and equal in mortality and in rights, but with freedom, there are always
different views on how things should run. The fact of the matter is, those who hold
power over the people in this world get to have their thoughts projected onto the
others, and in most cases people who hold power do more harm than good. In
developing countries, many humans are born into a world where their rights and
freedoms are not acknowledged because they are born a certain gender, have a certain
skin colour, and for loving someone of the same gender. As of 2015, 78 countries that
have strict laws set in place against homosexuality; homosexuality is defined as a
sexual desire or behaviour directed toward a person or people of ones own sex. Many
third-world countries like Uganda, Pakistan, and Malaysia have harsh, strict laws in
regard to homosexuality and the rights & freedoms of homosexual citizens. All the
while homosexuals of third-world countries are constantly under scrutiny and public
backlash for their non-traditional sexual orientations. Simon Lokodo, a former
Catholic priest from Africa, now ethics and integrity minster says,

Homosexuality is unnatural, abnormal and strange to our

cultures," he said. "It has no output whatsoever; it only
does damage and destruction. You cannot have a right to
be a sick human being. There is no right in homosexuality.
It must be cured.1

It is a biased viewpoint such as this that places homosexuality in a bad light.

Homosexuality is not some physical or mental illness that requires a cure. Even with
open hate and hostility directed to the homosexual communities, the United Nations is
unable to put a stop to it; for the Universal Declaration of Human Rights does not

Smith, D. (2014, February 23). Africa and Homophobia. Retrieved March 1 st, 2015 from
http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/feb/23/africa-homophobia-uganda-anti-gay-law

4
definitively note anything on sexual orientation, but it is rather implied. Sadly, many
citizens of third world countries have a rather particular viewpoint on people who
identify as homosexual, it is stated, over 90% of people from Uganda, Pakistan, and
Malaysia agree that homosexuality should not be accepted2 With many inhabitants of
developing countries still abiding by their religious roots, most are not too eager to
accept homosexuality in their countries; statistics show more than 50 percent of
developing countries have taken action to criminalize homosexuality and religious
homophobia is rife. 3
Laws against a certain minority have happened before, in the American South
during the 1960s there was racial segregation; a time when people of colour could not
share the same water fountain with a white person and were deemed inferior to white
people. They were treated like dogs. Religion is believed to be a justifiable reason for
the laws against homosexuals, as well as the segregation of the African-Americans in
the South during the 1940s. An African-American from Chicago accounts that back in
the 1940s:

Chicago pastors still stood at the doors of their churches denying admission to
blacks. In other cities, blacks risked physical harm if they attempted to enter a
church. If admitted, seating was segregated and blacks approached
Communionor Confessiononly after whites and received the sacraments
from a separate priest. Their children were denied entrance to parish schools
except to those that were all black. 4

Religion is a dominant force in both cases and is doing more harm than good
towards the minorities. Even in the 21st century there are still cases of religious racism,
2

The Global Divide on Homosexuality. (2013, June 4). Retrieved March 1, 2015, from
http://www.pewglobal.org/2013/06/04/the-global-divide-on-homosexuality/
3

Dugan, E. (2010, August 1). More than 70 countries make being gay a crime. Retrieved March 1, 2015, from
http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/politics/more-than-70-countries-make-being-gay-a-crime-2040850.html
4

Unsworth, T. (1997, January 1). Racism and religion: Partners in crime? Retrieved March 1, 2015, from
http://salt.claretianpubs.org/issues/racism/unsworth.html

5
although they are not as prevalent as religions perspective on homosexuality and the
homosexual community. As many developing countries laws are still influenced by
religion, many people of these developing countries believe that homosexuality is a
sin. Since it is the 21st century many people would like to believe that humans are more
accepting to different ideologies that are foreign to their own. Sadly, humanity is far
from a world that encourages the progress of those who set out to uplift the laws
against homosexuality, and allowing homosexuals to express their rights & freedoms
without fear, as well as discourage intolerance, hate, and close-mindedness. People
should be more involved in what is going on with the mistreatment of homosexuals in
developing countries if humanity is ever to close the umbrella that is social prejudice.
In this I.S.U will have an in-depth look at the anti-homosexuality laws that are
set in place in Uganda, Pakistan, and in Malaysia. The I.S.U will also be touching on
the violence homosexuals of these developing countries face from the government, as
well as the other citizens of these developing nations. The main research methods that
are used in this I.S.U are web articles from the websites The Guardian, Amnesty
International, and the United Nations.
This Independent Study Unit will have an in depth look at the antihomosexuality laws that are set in place in Uganda, Pakistan and Malaysia. The I.S.U
will also be touching on the violence homosexuals of these developing countries face
from the government, as well as the other citizens of these developing nations. The
main research methods that are used in this I.S.U are web articles from the websites
The Guardian, Amnesty International and the United Nations.
The fight to eradicate the laws that are forced on homosexuality is an important
step in the liberation homosexuals in third world countries. Coupled with ending the
social discrimination and violence homosexuals of developing countries face on a daily
basis. Through lack of education on the topic of homosexuality, and add in strong
religious influences that hold high power over many developing countries, it is no
wonder that violence and criminalization of homosexuals is prevalent.

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Background
The words homosexuality or homosexual did not always have a negative
connotation pose, or a cultural taboo. The earliest recording of homosexual activity
dates back to Ancient Greece (2900146 B.C), where homosexuality was not only
allowed, but also encouraged from the government. It was believed that if the Greek
soldiers had a close bond with one another, they would fight harder to protect each
other. The philosopher Plato once said,
"An army should be made up of lovers and their loves, they would be the
very best governors of their own city, abstaining from all dishonor, and
emulating one another in honour; and when fighting at each others side,
although a mere handful, they would overcome the world. For what lover
would not choose rather to be seen by all mankind than by his beloved,
either when abandoning his post or throwing away his army? He would
be ready to die a thousand deaths rather than endure this.5
History records show the late Roman Emperor Nero was noted to engage in sexual acts
with men. Tacitus, a Roman historian notes Emperor Nero's tyrannical passion, the
hubris of proclaimed divinity, the corruption of power, and every filthy depraved act
[] He did not only had a passion for free-born boys but also for quite literally
marrying other men and even a boy, sometimes playing the part of the woman in the
union and sometimes the man.6
In the later years when the Roman Empire converted to monotheism the
positive views of homosexuality disappeared. In 529 B.C, Roman Emperor Justinian I
passed the first law against homosexuality stating, people who engaged in
homosexual sex were to be executed.7 From then on, as religion spread throughout the
globe the practice of homosexuality was classified as a sin, and those who partake in
such practice would be persecuted. Even as the world progressed in terms of being
5

Historical Timeline - Born Gay? - ProCon.org. (2014, January 1). Retrieved February 27, 2015, from
http://borngay.procon.org/view.timeline.php?timelineID=000027
6 Wiker, B. (2012, June 27). Gay marriage and homosexuality were part of moral landscape in Ancient Rome.
Retrieved February 27, 2015, from https://www.lifesitenews.com/opinion/gay-marriage-and-homosexuality-werepart-of-moral-landscape-in-ancient-rome
7 Historical Timeline - Born Gay? - ProCon.org. (2013, August 15). Retrieved March 1, 2015, from
http://borngay.procon.org/view.timeline.php?timelineID=000027

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more open in acceptance for all, religions strong influences (mainly Christianity)
throughout the evolution of time still is able to steer many into thinking that it should
be illegal to be homosexual because it is viewed as a sin. As of 2015, 78 countries
around the world still consider the practice of homosexuality as a crime; these laws are
predominantly set up in African, Asian and Caribbean countries. This being said, there
are over 30 countries where a person is allowed to be gay and openly express their
sexuality without fear of ridicule, persecution, or possible death from the government.
Back in 2001, Norway was the first country to legalize gay marriage; after
Norways bold move, more countries followed suit by allowing same sex marriages.
Belgium joined on June 1st, then Spain on July 3rd, 2005 and Canada July 20th, 2005.
Next was South Africa in 2005, Norway and Sweden followed suit in 2006. Portugal,
Iceland, Argentina showed their support in 2010 Denmark in 2012, Brazil, France,
Uruguay, New Zealand all in 2013. The most recent countries to join are England,
Wales and Scotland. Mexico and USA have same sex marriage legalized, but only in
specific regions or states.8
Expert
Among one of the many advocates for the homosexual community is Ugandan
born Irshad Manji. At the age of four Manji moved to Vancouver, British Columbia
where she attended both secular and an Islamic religious school. In 1990 Manji earned
herself an honours degree in the history of ideas from the University of British
Columbia, and a Governor Generals Medal for her excellent grades in humanities.
From there she worked as a press secretary for the Ontario government, she was also a
part-time columnist for the LGBT newspaper Capital Xtra.
Among one of the many advocates for the homosexual community is Ugandan
born Irshad Manji. At the age of four Manji moved to Vancouver, British Columbia
were she attended both secular and Islamic religious school. In 1990 Manji earned
herself an honour degree in the history of ideas from the University of British
Columbia, and a Governor Generals Medal for her excellent grades in humanities.

International | Freedom to Marry. (n.d.). Retrieved May 8, 2015, from

http://www.freedomtomarry.org/landscape/entry/c/international

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From there she worked as a press secretary for the Ontario government and was also
part-time columnist for the LGBT newspaper Capital Xtra.
Irshad Manjis main contributions to help end criminalization of homosexuality
are seen through her published articles, books and association with organizations
regarding the LGBT community. Through her religious background Manji is able to
voice her opinion on the Quran and help combat against religious groups against
homosexuality. Manji describes a universal God that loves us enough to give us
choices and the capacity to make them.9
In 1995 Manji found the Moral Courage project, and is currently the director.
The Moral Courage project was found to confront the problem of not knowing what
people stand for let alone what to do about it. So people around the world lack
integrity, or wholeness. The Moral Courage Project exists to change that with their
solution to provide people with their Moral Courage method, which is teaching, role
modeling, and mentoring.10

Roles of Control
The power of control lies within the political government of the developing
nations. The politicians create the bills, as the government passes it, which is then
supported by different groups, aiding the government and encouraging their decisions.
People showing support to their government, gives the politicians control they need to
pass on bias viewpoints, the most recent example of Roles of Control would be
Russias anti-gay propaganda laws, a tool served for discrimination against
homosexuals in Russia. Hugh Williamson a director for Human Right Watch spoke
out against the law, This law openly discriminates against LGBT people, legitimizes
anti-LGBT violence, and seeks to erase LGBT people from the countrys public life,11
The whole world had their eyes on Russia with many people supporting Russias

Manji, Irshad (2011). Allah, Liberty and Love. Atria Books. Retrieved on March 1st, 2015 from ISBN 9781451645200.
10 Moral Courage Means Doing the Right Thing in the Face of Your Fears. Moral Courage. Moral Courage. Web. 6
May 2015. http://www.moralcourage.org/why/
11

Russia: Anti-LGBT Law a Tool for Discrimination. (2014, June 30). Retrieved March 1, 2015, from
http://www.hrw.org/news/2014/06/29/russia-anti-lgbt-law-tool-discrimination

9
decision, and others against the decision. One of the more notorious supporters of the
anti-homosexual propaganda law was World Congress of Families.
The World Congress of Families is an American founded religious group with
the purpose of standing up for the position of the traditional family, in a time of
eroding family life and declining appreciation for families in general". The coalition
defines "the natural family" as the "union of a man and a woman in a lifelong covenant
of marriage.12 The World Congress of Families did affiliate themselves with the antihomosexual laws in Uganda (Uganda Anti-Homosexuality Act, 2014), as well as
Russias anti-homosexuality propaganda law. The group praises Vladimir Putin as the
standard-bearer for traditional family values. They have been known to travel across
Africa spreading their idealisms about God and hate towards homosexuals. The World
Congress of Families affiliate Scott Lively has claimed that homosexuals are
responsible for the Holocaust, the Rwandan genocide and the spread of
HIV/AIDS. Some Ugandan officials credit Lively with the idea of introducing new
legislation to further criminalize homosexuality in the country, and prominent Ugandan
LGBT activists say the "bill is essentially his creation." It is absurd information in
which Lively is preaching to these people as it is a (biased) opinion full of nonsense
driven solely by hate for homosexuals, with no facts, or evidence behind it. However,
people buy into it because they need to have a reason to put up these laws for the
protection of their people. That being said, many advocates for homosexual rights
view the World Congress of Families to be dangerous as:
This organization and their affiliates global advocacy have
corresponded with a dangerous rise in anti-LGBT laws,
discrimination, and even violence around the world, said
Cobb. Their harmful impact is being felt in nearly every corner
of the globe, and we urge all fair-minded Americans to reject the
World Congress of Families and their exportation of anti-LGBT
hate.13
12
13

THC-WCF. (n.d.). Retrieved March 1, 2015, from http://worldcongress.org/WCF/wcf_tnf.htm

Exposed: The World Congress of Families. (2014, August 25). Retrieved March 1, 2015, from

http://www.hrc.org/blog/entry/exposed-the-world-congress-of-families

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Anti-homosexual organizations have managed to inject their view onto the

government through religion. They believe that the general public should follow their
views, while pro-homosexual groups are fighting for the power to have the general
public be accepting towards homosexuality. Each group has their own majority to cater
to, but it is unknown what majority has more power, or influence on peoples decisions
or viewpoints.
Religion/ Spirituality
Religion is the base foundation for discrimination and hate towards the
homosexual communities of developing nations. It is blatantly obvious that religion
and their slurs towards homosexuality are the driving force behind the gay laws, and
the suppression of homosexuals rights & freedoms. The main religions of Uganda,
Pakistan, and Malaysia are Christianity, Islamic, and Judaism, all of these religions
share a similar disdain towards homosexuality. Homosexuality is known that most
faiths preach that homosexuality is unnatural and against the will of God, and there
must be consequences to those who dare to go against the will of God. Leviticus 20:13,
a passage in the Holy Bible says,

If a man practices homosexuality, having sex with another man

as with a woman, both men have committed a detestable act.
They must both be put to death, for they are guilty of a capital
offense.14
It is preaching the killing of people; therefore the non-homosexual to kill
homosexuals for they have made their choice to love someone of the same sex. In the
Quran suras 27 and 29, it states,

14

Fairchild, M. (n.d.). Bible Verses About Homosexuality. Retrieved February 28, 2015, from

http://christianity.about.com/od/Bible-Verses/a/Bible-Verses-Homosexuality.htm

11
For ye practice your lusts on men in preference to woman; ye are
indeed a people transgressing beyond bounds And we rained
down on them a shower (of brimstone). 15

Many religious devotees would see that homosexuality goes beyond a simple
sin, but a vile fornication, that is ultimately punishable by death and eternal damnation.
While the Judaism religious text, the Tohr talks of the fate of homosexuals. If a man
lie with mankind, as with womankind, both of them have committed a detestable act:
they shall surely be put to death; their blood shall be upon them."16 Both of these texts
carry fear for those who do not participate in traditional sexuality, the messages
religious followers are receiving that they should be punished, for it is righteous and
morally just. A citizen of Uganda told The Guardian:

Religious fundamentalism is strong in these countries. That provides

the militant reaction to LGBT rights. One of the fears for
fundamentalists is losing grip of the country; they are told they have
lost grip because of the gays. They said, We don't want to lose
Nigeria or Uganda just as our brothers lost America to the gays. If it
means killing, we will kill.17

Ultimately the logic behind the laws against homosexuality is the fear that it
(being homosexuality) will spread as if it were an illness. People might also justify
their actions of hate towards, and the prosecution of homosexuals is because of the
major religious influences that are in the developing nations, and they truly believe
that what they are doing is right.

15

Islam and Homosexuality. (n.d.). Retrieved March 1, 2015, from http://www.thereligionofpeace.com/Quran/026homosexuality.htm

16 Homosexuality in Judaism and Jewish Thought - My Jewish Learning. (n.d.). Retrieved March 1, 2015, from
http://www.myjewishlearning.com/life/Sex_and_Sexuality/Homosexuality.shtml?p=3
17 Smith, D. (2014, February 23). Why Africa is the most homophobic continent. Retrieved February 28, 2015, from
http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/feb/23/africa-homophobia-uganda-anti-gay-law

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Logic of Evil
Religion is considered a spiritual pathway in regard to enlightenment, but in
terms of logic, it is a narrow path. It is believed that the reason behind banning
homosexuality is that of the strong religious influence inside the government, it is
believed to be justifiable to set up laws against the homosexuality community, and to
beat or possibly kill homosexuals, all in the name of God. Perhaps the logic behind this
is citizens' of the developing nations feel the need to rid themselves of the filth
(homosexuals) to appease God, and possibly believe they are doing homosexuals a
favour by making them realize their sinful acts against God. Just recently the
Government of Uganda has passed a bill called, Uganda Anti-Homosexuality Act
(previously called Kill the gays bill) back in 2014. The act entails a broadening of the
criminalization of homosexual acts, the Anti-Homosexuality act states,
A person who commits an offense under this section shall be liable, on
conviction, to imprisonment for life [] A person who (a)
participates in production, procuring, marketing, broadcasting,
disseminating, publishing of pornographic materials for purposes of
promoting homosexuality; (b) funds or sponsors homosexuality or other
related activities; (c) offers premises and other related fixed or movable
assets for purposes of homosexuality or promoting homosexuality; (d)
uses electronic devices which include Internet, films, mobile phones for
purposes of homosexuality or promoting homosexuality; or 9 Act AntiHomosexuality Act 2014(e) who acts as an accomplice or attempts to
promote or in any way abets homosexuality and related practices;
commits an offense and is liable, on conviction, to a fine of five
thousand currency points or imprisonment of a minimum of five years
and a maximum of seven years or both fine and imprisonment." (See
appendix 1)18

18

Anti-Homosexuality Act (2014). The Anti-Homosexuality Act 2014: Arrangement of Sections. Retrieved
February 28th, 2015, from http://wp.patheos.com.s3.amazonaws.com/blogs/warrenthrockmorton/files/2014/02/AntiHomosexuality-Act-2014.pdf

13
The Ugandan Government is controlling the people through the threat of
speaking out against the prejudice towards the homosexual community. Through
manipulating their citizens thoughts, the government is able to control the people as
well as gain favour from religious believers who are supporters of the anti-homosexual
act. It serves the populist agendas of unscrupulous political leaders. Anti-gay laws
strengthen the state at the expense of the individual and shore up nationalist fervor.19
Another way the government and the citizens of developing nations can justify
killing homosexuals is because their holy texts say to do so. 84% of the world is
currently practicing some form of religion; the two main religions being practiced in
Uganda, Pakistan and Indonesia are Christianity and Muslim. What both these
religions have in common is the negative light their holy texts put on homosexuality,
in the Holy Bible.20 People are killing homosexuals in developing nations because
they are told to do so by their religious text. The Holy Bible said so; therefore they are
convinced into believing that they are doing well by God for killing homosexuals. This
is contradictory though because one of the Holy Bibles 10 commandments was You
shall not murder21, but people kill homosexuals anyway. Perhaps it is because they
are not considered humans and are a disgrace to the image of God, that the
government and its people feel the need to lock up homosexuals in jail for the rest of
their lives because murder is still a sin, and many are still conformed to follow their
holy teachings, while others feel murder for the name of God is justified, and not
considered a sin.

19

Kirchick, J. (2014, January 2). The Curious Case of Countries where being gay is a crime. Retrieved March 1,
2015, from http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2014/01/02/the-curious-case-of-countries-where-being-gay-is-acrime.html
20 Harper, J. (2012, December 23). 84 percent of the world population has faith; a third are Christian. Retrieved
February 28, 2015, from http://www.washingtontimes.com/blog/watercooler/2012/dec/23/84-percent-worldpopulation-has-faith-third-are-ch/
21 Benett, M. (n.d.). 10 Commandments List. Retrieved March 1, 2015, from http://lifehopeandtruth.com/bible/10commandments/the-ten-commandments/10-commandments-list/

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Case Studies
Case Study #1: Uganda

Uganda (officially called the Republic of Uganda) is a developing nation,

bordered to the East by Kenya, to the North by South Sudan, to the West by the
Democratic Republic of the Congo, and to the South by Tanzania (See appendix 2). As
of 1962, Uganda has been a Democratic Republic; Ugandas current president is
Yoweri Museveni, who assumed office on January 29th, 1986. On February 24th, 2014,
69- year-old President Yoweri Museveni signed the Anti-Homosexuality Act. The
Anti-Homosexuality act was previously called Kill the gays bill in mainstream
western media, due to the death penalties of the convicted homosexuals. The death
penalties were dropped on December 20th, 2013 and replaced with life in prison
instead. 22 The dropping of the death penalty from the 2014 bill came from the foreign
pressures; international donors have threatened to cut off aid to Uganda if the country
does not do more to protect the rights of gay people.23
Homophobia in Uganda has been around since the British colonized Uganda.
Journalist for the Global Policy, Karl T. Munth wrote,
Little evidence of a history of anti-homosexual sentiment
in Uganda in pre-colonial times. Even during colonial
times, when the British were quick to interfere in
anything they considered alien in Ugandan culture, there
is no record of the High Commission Courts or Colonial
Magistrates having heard even one prosecution related to
the defendants sexual orientation. The Ugandan concept
of sexuality is substantially different from the modern
Western view and, in many ways, more advanced (at
least in my view). For decades, men have been able to
22

Uganda's President signs anti-gay bill into law. CNN News. 24 February 2014. Retrieved on April 1st, 2015 from
http://edition.cnn.com/2014/02/24/world/africa/uganda-anti-gay-bill/
23 Uganda Anti-Homosexuality Bill: MPs drop death penalty - BBC News. (2012, October 23). Retrieved April 26,
2015, from http://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-20463887

15
have sex with other men in Uganda without being
considered gay or of a different sexual orientation.24
Homophobia in Uganda is prevalent, and with the passing of the AntiHomosexuality Act, it only aids in a negative image for the homosexual community.
The Anti-Homosexuality Act prohibits any form of sexual relations between people of
the same gender. Homosexuality has always been a criminal offence in Uganda; Prior
to the Anti-Homosexuality Act there were still laws that criminalized being
homosexual, carrying prison sentences that lasted up to 14 years. Homophobia in
Uganda has dated back to the colonial period when the British came to Africa and
colonized the country. The laws are leftover from when the British colonized Uganda
and were created to punish what was considered unnatural sex by the colonial
authorities.25
There are many gay Ugandans living in fear of persecution, but a few brave
individuals have publicly come out of the closet to fight against Ugandan
homosexuality laws. Dr. Frank Mugisha is an Ugandan LGBT advocate, who is also
openly gay. Dr. Mugisha was born and raised in the suburbs of Kampala, Uganda in a
strict Roman- Catholic household. At the age of 14, Mugisha came out to his brother as
homosexual, from that point on he became estranged from most of his family, although
some friends and family supported him. While in university Mugisha found
Icebreakers Uganda, an organization created as a support network for LGBT Ugandans
who are out or in the process of coming out to family and friends.26 As of 2015,
Mugisha is an executive director for Sexual Minorities Uganda (SMUG). SMUG is a
non-government community based network formed in March 2004 to address Human
Rights issues based on sexual orientation and gender identity. Today the network
24

Munth, K. (2013, July 23). Uganda and the Myth of African Homophobia | Global Policy Journal - Practitioner,
Academic, Global Governance, International Law, Economics, Security, Institutions, Comment & Opinion, Media,
Events, Journal. Retrieved April 1, 2015, from http://www.globalpolicyjournal.com/blog/23/07/2013/uganda-andmyth-african-homophobia
25 Uganda: 'Anti-Homosexuality' Bill Threatens Liberties and Human Rights Defenders | Human Rights Watch.
(n.d.).Uganda: 'AntiHomosexuality' Bill Threatens Liberties and Human Rights Defenders | Human Rights Watch.
Retrieved April 2nd 2015, from http://www.hrw.org/en/news/2009/10/15/uganda-anti-homosexuality-bill-threatensliberties-and-human-rights-defenders
26 Ugandan LGBTI rights activist Frank Mugisha to receive 2011 Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights Award. Robert
F. Kennedy Center for Justice and Human Rights. 2011. Retrieved April 6th, 2015 from
http://rfkcenter.org/ugandan-lgbti-rights-activist-frank-mugisha-to-receive-2011-robert-f-kennedy-human-rightsaward

16
comprises 18 LGBT organizations all working to advocate for rights of LGBT people
and improve their welfare through service provision. The umbrella entity SMUG is
entrusted the responsibility of advocacy for policy reforms as MOs offer services on
economic empowerment, health, counselling and guidance and other services to the
LGBT community.27 Mugisha has also written articles for The Guardian, in one article
Mugisha argues that homophobia and the hatred that causes the Anti-Homosexuality
Bill were from western influences in Africa. Mugisha said,

I am a gay man. I am also Ugandan. There is nothing un-African about

me. Uganda is where I was born, grew up and call my home. It is also
a country in which I have become little more than an unapprehend
criminal because of whom I love. I want my fellow Ugandans to
understand that homosexuality is not a western import and our friends
in the developed world to recognise that the current trend of
homophobia is.28

Mugisha has been awarded the Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights Award, and the
Rafto Prize in 2011 for his work in pursuing LGBT rights in Uganda. He also was
nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize in 2014.

Despite 95% of Ugandans supporting the Anti-Homosexual Act, there are still
many homosexuals in Uganda. Pepe Julian Onziema is a gay female who lives with her
partner in Kampala, Uganda. One incident, Onziema and fellow friends were handing
out flyers for an HIV conference and were charged with trespassing. Although the
charges were finally dropped after many months, the experience in prison was
traumatic. Many of the police officers taunted her, saying whether she should be put
with the male inmates, or the female ones. She also experienced sexual harassment
during her time in prison. On another occasion her partner and her were walking down
27

Sexual Minorities Uganda. (n.d.). Retrieved April 6, 2015, from http://www.sexualminoritiesuganda.com/

Mugisha, F. (2014, March 20). I am a gay Ugandan about to go home. This law will tyrannise my life. Retrieved
April 6, 2015, from http://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2014/mar/20/gay-ugandan-law-tyrannise-life-antihomosexuality-act
28

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the street together, and her partners father assaulted her, leaving Onziema with
bruises, a bloody nose, and a mild concussion. To be gay in Uganda is to be hopeful,
always that things will get better. Onziema hopes and believes that she and her partner
will get married one day.29 Hopes remain strong despite, the violence and laws
imposed on homosexuals of Uganda.

29

Gordon, Glenna. "Being Gay in Uganda: One Couple's Story." Time. Time Inc., 8 Mar. 2010. Web. 7 May 2015.
http://content.time.com/time/world/article/0,8599,1969667,00.html

18
Case Study #2:

Pakistan, officially called the Islamic Republic of Pakistan is a sovereign nation

located in South Asia, in between Iraq, Afghanistan, and India (See appendix 3). The
constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan adopted in 1985 provides for a federal
parliamentary system with a president as head of state and a popularly elected prime
minister as head of government 30 The current president of Pakistan is President
Mamnoon Hussain, and the current Prime Minister is Nawaz Sharif. As of 2015 the
current population of Pakistan is well over 180 million, and rapidly increasing. Many
citizens in Pakistan are Muslim or follow Islamic ideals and practices.
Pakistani law is a mixture of both Anglo-Saxon colonial law as well as Islamic
law; both proscribe criminal penalties for same-sex sexual acts. The Pakistan Penal
Code of 1860, originally developed under British colonialism, punishes sodomy with a
possible prison sentence and has other provisions that impact the human rights of
homosexuals in Pakistan, under the guise of protecting public morality and order.
(See appendix 4)31 homosexuality is not explicitly mentioned, but "carnal intercourse
against the order of nature" is punishable by a fine and/or imprisonment for a period of
two years to life. Under the country's Sharia law, introduced in 1990, homosexual acts
are punishable by corporal punishment (whipping), imprisonment, or death.32
One recent incident involving violence towards homosexuals in Pakistan was
when a 28 year-old paramedic from Lahore by the name of Muhammed Ejaz confessed
to killing three gay men. Investigators said Mr. Ejaz, 28, had made a full confession
since being arrested in a police sting operation last week. He told officers that he had
met the victims, including a retired army officer, at their homes, drugged them with
sedatives hidden in food and strangled them. His reason behind the killings was to
send out a warning about the "evils" of homosexuality. Many homosexuals in Pakistan
30

Pakistan - GOVERNMENT STRUCTURE. (n.d.). Retrieved April 4, 2015, from

http://countrystudies.us/pakistan/65.htm
31

Pakistan Penal Code (Act XLV of 1860). (n.d.). Retrieved April 5, 2015, from
http://www.pakistani.org/pakistan/legislation/1860/actXLVof1860.html
32 Refworld | Pakistan: Situation of homosexuals, including the application of laws towards homosexuals, the
number of prosecutions of homosexuals and their outcomes; whether any regions have an open and active gay
community. (2007, November 29). Retrieved April 5, 2015, from http://www.refworld.org/docid/4784def1c.html

19
fear for their lives, one member of a gay dating site by the name of onlylads.com says,
"We (the gay community) feel increasingly threatened because hate-crimes are
generally applauded by the society [] We then worry that this incident will
encourage others from the society that they would also want to kill the evil within
us,33 On the streets of Lahore, Pakistan the city where Ejaz is being held, many
citizens share Ejaz's righteousness. I stand with Ejaz and the courage he has showed
to wipe these devils off from our Holy Land Islam doesnt approve of
homosexuality so who are we to let these people live among us, says Mohmmad
Naeem 35-year-old roadside vendor in Lahore. Noor Ata, a 22-year-old student of law
in Karachi agrees. We cant blame the killer for his acts, it is illegal to indulge in any
homosexual activity and the government has failed to stop such obscenity," he said.
"As a result, pious people like Ejaz are forced eliminate evil themselves.
With this type of malicious mind set it is no wonder that the homosexual
community of Pakistan is kept quiet, even the news reports on these murders were kept
on the down low from the Pakistani public. Hadi Hussain, a gay rights activist from
Pakistan courageously wrote an open letter to Muhammad Ejaz. Hussain writes,

Firstly, you said that you hate us because we are gay. Would
you be kind enough to tell me if have you ever tried reading
anything on homosexuality beyond the bigoted twisted lies
society told you? You said you discovered the gay dating sites
popular in Pakistan through a Google search. Did you ever
bother to Google search and read about homosexuality the
scientific scholarship or alternative religious views about it? If
you had, the course of your life and the lives of those who were
ruthlessly murdered by you, might have been different [...]
Perhaps I need to thank you Ejaz, for sacrificing the lives of
three people to unwittingly break Pakistan's silence over
homosexuality. Our lives and deaths are now part of the public
33

Inayat, N. (2014, May 12). Being Gay in Pakistan: Where Anti-Gay Serial Killers are Applauded |News |
Towleroad. Retrieved April 5, 2015, from http://www.towleroad.com/2014/05/being-gay-in-pakistan.html

20
narrative. You will rot in jail but we will rise again from the
collective shame, fear and guilt that you have brought upon us.
We will still talk, meet, hold hands, exchange hugs and kisses.
We will make love, unapologetically. We will continue to
hope, believe and work for building a society where education
and dialogue will change social prejudice.34

The murders of the three homosexual men has caused fellow homosexuals of
Pakistan to speak out against Ejaz, and it is possible that these murders will unfold a
new turning point in homosexual rights in Pakistan.

34

Hussain, H. (2014, April 28). Scroll.in - News. Politics. Culture. Retrieved April 6, 2015, from
http://scroll.in/article/663130/An-open-letter-to-Muhammad-Ejaz,-serial-killer-of-gay-men-in-Lahore

21
Case Study # 3: Malaysia

Malaysia is a country that is located in Southeast Asia, separated by the South

China Sea and two similarly sized regions, Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia
(Malaysian Borneo). Peninsular Malaysia shares a land and maritime border with
Thailand and maritime borders with Singapore, Vietnam, and Indonesia. East Malaysia
shares land and maritime borders with Brunei and Indonesia and a maritime border
with the Philippines (See appendix 4). 35 Malaysia is a federal constitutional monarchy;
this is a form of monarchy where the governing powers of the monarch are restricted.
The current King of Malaysia is Abdul Halim, current Prime Minister is Najib Razak
and the Deputy Prime Minister is Muhyiddin Yassin who both entered Malaysian
office back in 2009.
Malaysian law on homosexual activity is located in Section 377 of Malaysias
Penal Code:
Unnatural Offences
Carnal intercourse against the order of nature. Any person who has
sexual connection with another person by the introduction of the penis
into the anus or mouth of the other person is said to commit carnal
intercourse against the order of nature. Penetration is sufficient to
constitute the sexual connection necessary to the offence described in
this section.
Section 377B. Punishment for committing carnal intercourse against
the order of nature. Whoever voluntarily commits carnal intercourse
against the order of nature shall be punished with imprisonment for a
36 may extend to twenty years, and shall also be liable to whipping.
Section 377C. Committing carnal intercourse against the order of
nature without consent, etc. Whoever voluntarily commits carnal
intercourse against the order of nature on another person without the

35

Malaysian Flag and Coat of Arms. (n.d.). Retrieved April 6, 2015, from
http://mygov.malaysia.gov.my/EN/Main/MsianGov/MsianFlagAndCrest/Pages/MsianFlagAndCrest.aspx

22
consent, or against the will, of the other person, or by putting other
person in fear of death or hurt to the person or any other person, shall
be punished with imprisonment for a term of not less than five years
and not more than twenty years, and shall also be liable to whipping.37

Since Malaysia is a heavily populated Muslim country, citizens follow the civil
law (Malaysias Penal Code), and Sharia Laws. Sharia Laws means the moral code and
religious law of a prophetic religion. Sharia Laws has covered several topics including;
Crime, politics, economics, sexual relations, diet, hygiene, prayer, everyday etiquette,
and fasting.38 Then in 1998 the "People's Anti-Homosexual Voluntary Movement,"
was created to lobby for stricter criminal laws against homosexuality, and is a member
of the ruling United Malays National Organization (UMNO).39
Malaysia retains its British colonial era criminal ban on sodomy, even though
Malaysia gained independence from the British on 1957. Possible punishment
including fines, prison sentences of up to twenty years, and even corporal punishment.
A subsection of the criminal code also provides additional punishment for men
convicted of "gross indecency with another male person.40
One particular case of sodomy in Malaysia was back in 1998 when former
Deputy Prime Minister, Anwar Ibrahim was arrested and convicted for engaging in
sexual intercourse with his driver. In 2000 Ibrahim was sentenced to nine years in
prison despite, national and international protests from homosexual rights activists,
then in 2004 his verdict was overturned, leading to his release. Once free, Ibrahim
spoke out saying he felt that the national criminal laws against homosexuality ought to

37

Anti-LGBT laws: Malaysia. (2012, April 5). Retrieved April 6, 2015, from http://76crimes.com/anti-lgbt-lawsmalaysia/
38 Encyclopaedia of Islam, Second Edition. (n.d.). Retrieved April 6, 2015, from
http://referenceworks.brillonline.com/entries/encyclopaedia-of-islam-2/sharia-COM_1040
39 Criminal Sodomy. (n.d.). Retrieved April 6, 2015, from
http://www.sodomylaws.org/world/malaysia/malaysia.htm
407 Worst Capital Punishments for Being (Illegally) Gay. (n.d.). Retrieved May 8, 2015, from
http://www.ranker.com/list/7-worst-capital-punishments-for-being-_illegally_gay/joanne?var=2&utm_expid=16418821-94.2zKp6SwOR9mNJAnNeG84w.1&utm_referrer=http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/LGBT_rights_in_Malaysia

23
be reformed to protect consenting adult's right to have a private life, although he also
stated that gay marriage "is going a bit too far". Ibrahim then went onto file a civil
lawsuit against the government in 2007, in response to Ibrahim's lawsuit, former Prime
Minister Mahathir Mohamad said that a homosexual should not hold public office in
Malaysia and that he knew Anwar was a homosexual because Anwar's male chauffeur
and a male speech writer both stated in court that they have had sexual relations with
Anwar.41 Investigators arrested Anwar again in July 2008 over allegations that he
engaged in sexual intercourse with his former aide, Saiful Bukhari Azlan.
Conveniently the arrest came four months after a loose coalition of opposition parties
that Anwar led won 82 of 222 parliamentary seats in elections. It was only the second
time in the country's history that the governing coalition had failed to gain the twothirds majority needed to amend the constitution. From his prison cell, Ibrahim spoke
to CNN, " I will not be silenced," vowing to continue to "fight for freedom and justice.
I will never surrender."42
Due to the mass press that the Anwar Ibrahim Sodomy Trials has received, it
has opened the citizens of Malaysia to look past cultural taboos that surround the
homosexual community and let them be informed about what is really going on.

41

Former PM say gays should not rule. (2007, March 12). Retrieved April 6, 2015, from
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid40937.asp
42 Mullen, J. (2015, February 10). Malaysia court upholds Anwar Ibrahim sodomy conviction - CNN.com.
Retrieved April 7, 2015, from http://www.cnn.com/2015/02/09/asia/malaysia-anwar-ibrahim-sodomy-case/

24
International World Organizations
United Nations
Many world organizations have attempted to put a stop on violence against the
homosexual community as well as the discrimination they face in developing nations.
Two of the more vocal organizations are the United Nations, and Amnesty
International.
The United Nations was created in the year 1945, after World War 2 had ended.
The United Nations acts as an international peacekeeping and security organization. In
the United Nations there are 193 members of state, their job is to work together and
publicize human rights, justice, and a better standing of living.
In regard to the United nation and the rights of the LGBTQ world community,
the United Nations has expressed a commitment to work together to stop
homosexuality discrimination and ensure that everyone has their rights, regardless of
sexual orientation. On the 18th of December, back in 2008, Argentina Ambassador
Jorge Argello read out the first declaration concerning gay rights in the General
Assembly.43 The United Nations has launched public education campaigns to inform
people about the problems that homosexual people face, as well creating a pledge to
put a stop to ending homophobia in developing countries. Recently the United Nations
has released a video called The Riddle as an anti-homophobia message to the world.
The video even goes farther to target the 76 countries that have criminalized being
homosexual.
Many organizations have tried to put a stop to the violence that homosexuals,
and the United Nations knows that their goal to end civilization and discrimination
against homosexuals will face many bumps and twists in the road to equality. United
Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Navi Pillay, expresses the United
Nations reasons to act. That being said, Pillay also stresses the challenges that the
United Nations is going to face on this issue. Pillay commented in an interview,

43

Macfarquhar, N. (2008, December 18). In a First, Gay Rights Are Pressed at the U.N. Retrieved April 2, 2015,
from http://www.nytimes.com/2008/12/19/world/19nations.html?_r=0

25
Over the past decade, many countries have embarked on
historic reforms strengthening anti-discrimination laws,
combating hate crime against LGBT people and sensitizing
public opinion. But in spite of advances, very serious
challenges remain [] In some places; things seem to be
getting worse, not better. As you know, regressive new laws
have been proposed or adopted in several Eastern European and
African countries in the past year alone. We must, all of us,
look for new ways to talk about this issue with governments
especially those that are reluctant to do so. 44

Other members from different sectors of the United Nations has expressed their
desire to help combat against the laws in homophobic countries, the Executive Director
of the United Nations program on HIV/AIDS, Michel Sidib, has spoken up against the
injustice the homosexual community faces. I am outraged that we still have to fight
prejudice, stigma, discrimination, exclusion, criminalization of gay, lesbian, bisexual
and transgender people, not only in their homes, but in their streets, police stations and
court rooms."45
Amnesty International

Amnesty International (also called Amnesty, or AI) is a non-government

organization that focuses on Human Rights. Amnesty International was found in
London in 1961 by British lawyer Peter Beneson, with the stated objective is to
conduct research and generate action to prevent and end grave abuses of human rights,
and to demand justice for those whose rights have been violated.46 As of 2015 (over
50 years since the founding of AI) Amnesty International has over 7 million active

44

At UN meeting, countries commit to protect gay rights, combat discrimination. (2013, September 26). Retrieved
April 3, 2015, from
https://www.un.org/apps/news//story.asp?NewsID=46036&Cr=lesbian&Cr1=www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?Ne
wsID=44660
45 Countries must repeal laws that discriminate against LGBT individuals UN officials. (2013, May 17). Retrieved
April 3, 2015, from http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=44931#.VR7F8_nF-bM
46 Amnesty International. (n.d.). Retrieved April 3, 2015, from https://www.amnesty.org/en/who-we-are/

26
supporters in over 150 countries and territories who work together to protect Human
Rights.
In regard to the rights of homosexuals, Amnesty International has expressed its
want for the decriminalization of homosexuality where such legislation remains,
including a review of all legislation which could result in the discrimination,
prosecution and punishment of people solely for their sexual orientation or gender
identity.
This includes:

"Sodomy" laws or similar provisions outlawing sexual conduct between people

of same-sex or transgender individuals;

Discriminatory age-of-consent legislation;

Public order legislation used as a pretext for prosecuting and punishing people
solely for their sexual orientation or gender identity;

Laws banning the promotion of homosexuality which can be used to

imprison lesbian, gay, bisexual, same-sex practicing and transgender
individuals and human rights defenders.

All legislation under which a person may be killed by the state on the basis of
sexual orientation or gender identity.47

In this statement Amnesty International has also included the sodomy law or
similar laws that make sexual conduct of the same-sex illegal. In some countries it is
also illegal to promote homosexuality" like Russia, Uganda, and Sudan. People can
be imprisoned for doing so. All of these laws that are listed above are actual laws that
are targeted against the homosexual community as well as the transgender community.
Amnesty International is trying to get countries around the world to get these laws
repealed or amended. Amnesty International is also calling for the all prisoners (being
held solely for being homosexual) to be released with no conditions and as soon as
possible.
47

Decriminalizing Homosexuality. (n.d.). Retrieved April 5, 2015, from http://www.amnestyusa.org/ourwork/issues/lgbt-rights/decriminalizing-homosexuality

27

Human Rights Watch

Human Right Watch (formally called Helsinki Watch) is a non-government
funded organization, Human Rights Watch mission is to investigate abuses, expose the
facts widely, and pressure those with power to respect rights and secure justice.48
Human Right Watch was designed in 1978 designed to support the citizens groups
formed throughout the Soviet block to monitor government compliance with the 1975
Helsinki Accords. Helsinki Watch adopted a methodology of publicly "naming and
shaming" abusive governments through media coverage and through direct exchanges
with policymakers. Human Rights Watch currently is over viewing over 90 different
countries around the globe.
Human Rights Watch has kept a close eye on the rights of homosexuals and the
violence the homosexual community faces in developing countries. Human Rights
Watch's webpage has put up a saying for the LGBT community stating: "People
around the world face violence and inequality and sometimes torture, even execution
because of who they love, how they look, or who they are. Sexual orientation and
gender identity are integral aspects of ourselves and should never lead to
discrimination or abuse. Human Rights Watch works for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and
transgender peoples rights, with activists representing a multiplicity of identities and
issues. We document and expose abuses based on sexual orientation and gender
identity worldwide including torture, killing and executions, arrests under unjust
laws, unequal treatment, censorship, medical abuses, discrimination in health and jobs
and housing, domestic violence, abuses against children, and denial of family rights
and recognition. We advocate for laws and policies that will protect everyones
dignity. We work for a world where all people can enjoy their rights fully." 47

48

Human Rights Watch | Defending Human Rights Worldwide. (n.d.). Retrieved May 4, 2015, from
http://www.hrw.org/about

28

Canada
Canada had laws against the homosexual community for quite some time, in
1995, the Supreme Court of Canada ruled in Egan vs. Canada that "sexual orientation"
should be 'read in' to Section 15 of the Canadian Charters of Rights & Freedoms, a part
of the constitution. The ruling had a wide impact since section 15 applies to all laws,
including human right acts that prohibit discrimination by all employers, landlords,
service providers and governments. Then in 1996 sexual orientation followed suit and,
was added to the Canadian Human Rights Act.
Although it is illegal in Canada to discriminate in Canada, people still do it.
Recently the number of hate crimes in Canada has doubled.

The study found the number of hate crimes motivated

by sexual orientation more than doubled in 2008 compared to
the previous year and were more likely to involve violence than
racially and religiously motivated attacks. "We've known for
years and years that we have a big problem with violence
against the LGBT community . . . and I don't think the
government can continue to sweep this under the carpet and say
that we have great legislation in Canada to protect LGBT
communities (when) the reality is that we're not."
The Statistics Canada figures suggest young people between
the ages of 12 and 22 are responsible for six in 10 hate crimes;
the majority of those accused being 17 or 18.49

There are other forms of discrimination to the homosexual community, not just
through violence; there is also discrimination in denying services to gay people.
Recently a gay couple in Manitoba was denied day-care services for their 10-month49

Cohen, T. (n.d.). Hate crimes against gays has doubled in Canada. Retrieved April 6, 2015, from
http://www.canada.com/life/Hate crimes against gays doubled Canada/3155968/story.html

29
old daughter after disclosing they were a queer couple. Agata Durkalec and Kate
Taylor spoke out against the woman, telling CBC:

"At the end of one of our messages, I told her that we're a queer
couple; just if she has any questions about that to let us know,"
Durkalec told CBC News on Thursday."Durkalec said. "She
cheerfully, and with regret, told us that she was going to discriminate
against us."
The woman who runs the daycare responded in a Facebook message,
"My heart goes out to the both of you, but I know where my families
stand on the subject, therefore it would not be a good fit. I hope
everything works out for you and your family." Durkalec said it was
made very clear that this was the only reason for being refused a space.
'It's still a denial of service because we are gay. As far as I know, that's
illegal.' Kate Taylor said, "It's the status of our family, it's because we
are queer that she doesn't want to give us the spot," Durkalec said.
"She cheerfully, and with regret, told us that she was going to
discriminate against us."50

One would be ignorant to believe that discrimination against the homosexual

community does not occur in first world countries, like Canada. The government may
be able to enforce the end of discrimination on a legal scale, but the government cannot
control public prejudice. Prejudice is defined as unreasonable feelings, opinions, or
attitudes, especially of a hostile nature, regarding an ethnic, racial, social, or religious
group, or an unfavourable opinion or feeling formed beforehand or without knowledge,
thought, or reason.51 Discrimination is just people acting on their prejudice opinions,

50

Caruk, H. (2015, April 3). Winnipeg same-sex couple say they were denied daycare space. Retrieved April 6,
2015, from http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/winnipeg-same-sex-couple-say-they-were-denied-daycarespace-1.3019903
51

(n.d.). Retrieved April 6, 2015, from http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/prejudice

30
the Government of Canada still faces the issue of how to end the discrimination of
homosexuals citizens of Canada.
The violence against homosexuals in Canada affects not only the homosexual
community, but also family/friends of homosexuals, as well as homosexual activists.
Citizens of Canada should be able to feel safe within their country, and not have to fear
being verbally assaulted (being called gay slanders) or physically assaulted by random
citizens. As citizens of Canada, it should be taken upon us to inform the Canadian
public about the violence that homosexuals face daily, inform them of the
discrimination that the homosexuality community faces, and how they can help. We
should also inform the teens about the things they say/ post on the internet, many male
teens use the term 'gay' so loosely, and many teens perceive it as a shot to their
masculinity, giving 'gay' a negative connotation to it. Many do not realize that what
they are saying is in fact discrimination, and degrading to a member of the homosexual
community, but teens are not the only ones who need to be informed about the
discrimination that homosexuals face. Canadian adults should be educated as well,
what they say/do also impacts the homosexual community, but also their children's
view on the topic as well. Children will inadvertently develop discrimination/prejudice
through listening and watching what their parents do. There is a charity that is called
Egale Canada Human Rights Trust that promotes LGBT rights through research,
community engagement, and education.52 Having an informed public on the
discrimination and violence homosexuals in Canada face will aid in the dissipation of
discrimination and violence in Canada over time.

52

About Egale Canadian Human Rights Trust. Egale. Retrieved on Web. 7 May 2015 from http://egale.ca/aboutechrt/

31
Solutions

One solution to help abolish the laws of the criminalization of homosexuals,

and end the violence that homosexuals face is by informing the public. Bringing
awareness about the violence & criminalization of homosexuals overseas to the public
eye can encourage people to take action against the injustice. Many Canadian citizens
have only the slightest idea about what is happening to homosexuals where it is illegal
to love someone of the same sex. By keeping Canadian citizens informed, they can aid
in the prejudice against homosexuals through media, protests, letters to the Ugandan
government, and even just by passing the information to other people who are not
informed about it can spark some interest as well.

Canadian citizens can also encourage the government to stop casting a blind
eye on what is going on overseas, and act upon the injustice that homosexuals are
facing. If the government is made aware that Canadian citizens want to end the
violence and criminalization of homosexuals across the world, then perhaps the
Canadian government will try to provide extra effort to end the injustice of the
homosexual community. Canadian citizens can also pressure the government for
sanctions on these developing countries. The United States of America has already
taken that step and has banned some Ugandan officials from and suspended aid
donations. In a statement on the sanctions, US Ambassador to the UN Samantha Power
said:
"LGBT rights are human rights and the steps taken make clear that the
United States will take action to defend those rights. The discriminatory
laws in Uganda that criminalizes homosexual status should be repealed,
as should laws and policies in the more than 76 countries around the
world that criminalize homosexuality."53

53

Kampala, Alex. "Uganda Responds Defiantly to US Sanctions over Anti-gay Legislation | Africa | DW.DE |
20.06.2014." Uganda Responds Defiantly to US Sanctions over Anti-gay Legislation. 20 June 2014. Web. 5 May
2015, from http://www.dw.de/uganda-responds-defiantly-to-us-sanctions-over-anti-gay-legislation/a-17725629

32
The United States of America is not the only country to put a sanction on
Uganda, several other western nations including Norway, Sweden, Denmark, and the
Netherlands. It doesnt just stop with government sanctions thought; the World Bank
has also postponed loans to Uganda over the signing of the Anti-Homosexual Act of
2014. S A representative of the World Bank had this to say about the situation, We
have postponed the project for further review to ensure that the development objectives
would not be adversely affected by the enactment of this new law.54
Conclusion
The violence and criminalization of homosexuals is a widespread issue and a
controversial topic; there is no way for one person to single-handedly change a
governments view on the topic at hand. Although if people band together to spread
awareness of the violence and prosecution homosexuals face through different
organizations, protests, social media, and much more, then there is hope that there will
be an end to this injustice.
People have seen changes over the past decades in regard to being more
accepting towards the homosexual community. Many countries in North & South
America have already taken the step to legalize same-sex marriage, and many countries
in Europe and Asia are slowly making the changes need to make homosexuality legal.
Little by little the human society is becoming more accepting to the homosexuality
community, and it is hoped that only positive changes will occur in the years ahead.

54

"World Bank Postpones Loan to Uganda over Anti-gay Law | News | DW.DE | 28.02.2014." World Bank
Postpones Loan to Uganda over Anti-gay Law. 28 Feb. 2014. Web. 5 May 2015, from http://www.dw.de/worldbank-postpones-loan-to-uganda-over-anti-gay-law/a-17464179

33

Appendices

Appendix # 1
Anti-Homosexuality Act. (Digital Image). Retrieved on April 7th, 2015 from
http://wp.patheos.com.s3.amazonaws.com/blogs/warrenthrockmorton/files/2014/02/An
ti-Homosexuality-Act-2014.pdf

34

Appendix #2

Uganda. Digital image. World Travels. 1 Jan. 2015. Web. Retrieved on May 7th, 2015
from http://petrosnetwork.org/where-we-work/

35
Appendix #3

Pakistan. Digital image. SARRC Tourism. Web. Retrieved on May 7th, 2015 from
http://pakistan.saarctourism.org/pakistan-map.html

36

Appendix # 4

Malaysia. Digital image. Lonelyplanet. Web. Retrieved on May 7th, 2015 from
http://www.lonelyplanet.com/maps/asia/malaysia/

37

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