While the world celebrates Pride Month, you can be executed for being a sexual minority in these countries

Fifty years on from the first Gay Pride march, the LGBT community and their supporters have taken many of their events online, responding to the threat of the coronavirus pandemic.

The pandemic has forced organisers to move parades, marches and forums online across the world in June for Pride Month, an annual celebration of the LGBTQ community and a renewed call for equal rights.

The first Gay Pride march was held in 1970 in&nbsp;New York, to mark the first anniversary of the city's Stonewall riots, a landmark event in the gay rights struggle.

TAIWAN

Taiwan hosted one of the few pride marches around the world on Sunday as the island's LGTBQ community and their supporters took to the streets.

Taiwan usually holds its main pride march in October but many in the island's LGTBQ community felt it was important to hit the streets in June when so many others around the world could not.

Hundreds of people marched inside Taipei's Liberty Square after summer afternoon rainfall delayed the celebration for an hour as music blasted and many participants wore rainbow coloured face masks.

Many of those attending held placards with the names of major global cities that have been unable to celebrate Pride Month this June because of the coronavirus.

NEW YORK

On Sunday in New York City, the Reclaim Pride Coalition, a group of queer and trans activists, will hold its second annual Queer Liberation March which this year will focus on a protest against racial injustice and demands for police reform.

In the United States, former president Barack Obama released a video message paying tribute to the gay New Yorkers who rioted at the Stonewall Inn in 1969, effectively launching the modern gay rights movement.

"Because of the movement they sparked and the decades of work that followed, marriage equality became the law of the land five years ago and just this month the Supreme Court ruled that employers can no longer discriminate against LGBTQ workers," he said.

Democratic presidential contender Joe Biden issued his own message on video, in which he referred to a recent Supreme Court ruling reaffirming LGBT workers.

"Pride is particularly poignant this year," he said.

<img alt="Gay Pride march in New York" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c78c1c5e-c4e8-4b72-9d67-762f09d41814" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/gay%20pride%203.jpg" />

BERLIN

In Berlin, police estimated that around 3,500 people marched in temperatures of around 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit).

Foreign Minister Heiko Maas tweeted a message of support to the Global Pride event: "Be proud of yourself! No matter who you love, no matter where you live."

VIENNA

In Vienna, around 200 cars and motorbikes decked out in rainbow flags and inflatable unicorns paraded down the city’s famous Ringstrasse on Saturday afternoon.

Organisers said around 5,000 people turned out to watch the scaled-down event. Vienna's Rainbow Parade, which normally attracts hundreds of thousands of people, was otherwise replaced by online events.

LONDON

The online Global Pride event -- running with the slogan "Exist, persist, resist" -- got underway at 0500 GMT in London.

Some events were broadcast on the giant screen in Piccadilly Square and London's mayor, Sadiq Khan, tweeted his support. "We may be apart, but we are still united, as neighbours, as allies, and as one city."

Fronted by singer and drag queen Todrick Hall, known for his role on the American Idol talent show, it also featured stars such as Kesha and Ava Max.

Politicians were also appearing, including Costa Rican President Carlos Alvarado, whose country has just legalised gay marriage.

<img alt="Gay Pride march in Europe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="cfa36377-d1b2-4820-bf05-d2d906e74a01" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/gay%20pride%202.jpg" />

ARGENTINA

In Argentina, public buildings and monuments will be lit in the rainbow colours of the gay rights movement, and local activists have organised a week of online events, even though Gay Pride is normally celebrated there in November.

MEXICO

In Mexico, some 200 people marched along Paseo de la Reforma, the main avenue in Mexico City, breaking rules to help contain the pandemic which has killed more than 25,000 people in the country.&nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies)

Fifty years on from the first Gay Pride march, the LGBT community and their supporters have taken many of their events online, responding to the threat of the coronavirus pandemic.

Fifty years on from the first Gay Pride march, the LGBT community and their supporters have taken many of their events online, responding to the threat of the coronavirus pandemic. The pandemic has forced organisers to move parades, marches and forums online across the world in June for Pride Month, an annual celebration of the LGBTQ community and a renewed call for equal rights. The first Gay Pride march was held in 1970 in New York, to mark the first anniversary of the city's Stonewall riots, a landmark event in the gay rights struggle. TAIWAN Taiwan hosted one of the few pride marches around the world on Sunday as the island's LGTBQ community and their supporters took to the streets. Taiwan usually holds its main pride march in October but many in the island's LGTBQ community felt it was important to hit the streets in June when so many others around the world could not. Hundreds of people marched inside Taipei's Liberty Square after summer afternoon rainfall delayed the celebration for an hour as music blasted and many participants wore rainbow coloured face masks. Many of those attending held placards with the names of major global cities that have been unable to celebrate Pride Month this June because of the coronavirus. NEW YORK On Sunday in New York City, the Reclaim Pride Coalition, a group of queer and trans activists, will hold its second annual Queer Liberation March which this year will focus on a protest against racial injustice and demands for police reform. In the United States, former president Barack Obama released a video message paying tribute to the gay New Yorkers who rioted at the Stonewall Inn in 1969, effectively launching the modern gay rights movement. "Because of the movement they sparked and the decades of work that followed, marriage equality became the law of the land five years ago and just this month the Supreme Court ruled that employers can no longer discriminate against LGBTQ workers," he said. Democratic presidential contender Joe Biden issued his own message on video, in which he referred to a recent Supreme Court ruling reaffirming LGBT workers. "Pride is particularly poignant this year," he said. BERLIN In Berlin, police estimated that around 3,500 people marched in temperatures of around 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit). Foreign Minister Heiko Maas tweeted a message of support to the Global Pride event: "Be proud of yourself! No matter who you love, no matter where you live." VIENNA In Vienna, around 200 cars and motorbikes decked out in rainbow flags and inflatable unicorns paraded down the city’s famous Ringstrasse on Saturday afternoon. Organisers said around 5,000 people turned out to watch the scaled-down event. Vienna's Rainbow Parade, which normally attracts hundreds of thousands of people, was otherwise replaced by online events. LONDON The online Global Pride event -- running with the slogan "Exist, persist, resist" -- got underway at 0500 GMT in London. Some events were broadcast on the giant screen in Piccadilly Square and London's mayor, Sadiq Khan, tweeted his support. "We may be apart, but we are still united, as neighbours, as allies, and as one city." Fronted by singer and drag queen Todrick Hall, known for his role on the American Idol talent show, it also featured stars such as Kesha and Ava Max. Politicians were also appearing, including Costa Rican President Carlos Alvarado, whose country has just legalised gay marriage. ARGENTINA In Argentina, public buildings and monuments will be lit in the rainbow colours of the gay rights movement, and local activists have organised a week of online events, even though Gay Pride is normally celebrated there in November. MEXICO In Mexico, some 200 people marched along Paseo de la Reforma, the main avenue in Mexico City, breaking rules to help contain the pandemic which has killed more than 25,000 people in the country. (with inputs from agencies)

LGBTQ Pride Month events go online to mark 50th anniversary; Taiwan holds march

'Dismantling homophobia': Iconic New York bar celebrates transgender ruling by US Supreme Court

The US Supreme Court has delivered a major victory for LGBT rights and a defeat for President Donald Trump's administration. The top court passed a ruling that a longstanding law barring workplace discrimination also protects gay and transgender employees.

US top court bars workplace discrimination: Extends civil rights to LGBT workers

The death of a high-profile Egyptian LGBT+ activist who sought asylum in Canada after being jailed for waving the rainbow flag was mourned on Monday by followers highlighting the nation's ongoing discrimination against the gay community.

Sarah Hegazy, 30, was found dead in her apartment in Toronto where she had been living in exile for about 18 months and struggling with depression, her lawyer Ali el-Halawany confirmed.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/us-top-court-rules-civil-rights-law-protects-lgbt-workers-306124" hreflang="en">US top court rules civil rights law protects LGBT workers</a>

Hegazy rose to prominence in October 2017 when she was arrested after raising the LGBT+ rainbow flag at a concert by popular Lebanese alternative rock band Mashrou'Leila band whose lead singer Hamed Sino is openly gay.

It was a rare public show of support for LGBT+ rights in the conservative Muslim country.

Hegazy was the only woman arrested in a three-week anti-gay crackdown by authorities, and she was charged and detained with "promoting sexual deviancy and debauchery", a charge she denied.

After she was released on bail in January 2018 she sought asylum in Canada.

"Sarah paid the price for choosing her sexual preferences and defending the rights of the sexually abused," el-Halawani said in a Facebook post.

He was not available for further comment.

LGBT+ rights activists paid tribute to Hegazy, circulating a handwritten message attributed to her and written before her death.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/polish-president-compares-lgbt-ideology-to-soviet-indoctrination-305628" hreflang="en">Polish president compares 'LGBT ideology' to Soviet indoctrination</a>

Although homosexuality is not a crime in Egypt, discrimination against the LGBT+ community is rife. Gay men are frequently arrested and typically charged with debauchery, immorality or blasphemy.

"This is heartbreaking and tragic. Rest in power," tweeted Mona el-Tahawy, an Egyptian-U.S. writer and independent women's rights advocate.

Mohamed ElBaradei, an Egyptian opposition politician and former interim vice-president, joined the online discussion.

"You may differ with Sarah Hegazy in her thinking and way of life, and this is your right, but is it your right to persecute her and besiege her right to life simply because of your disagreement with her?", he wrote on Twitter.

The death of a high-profile Egyptian LGBT+ activist who sought asylum in Canada after being jailed for waving the rainbow flag was mourned on Monday by followers highlighting the nation's ongoing discrimination against the gay community.

The death of a high-profile Egyptian LGBT+ activist who sought asylum in Canada after being jailed for waving the rainbow flag was mourned on Monday by followers highlighting the nation's ongoing discrimination against the gay community. Sarah Hegazy, 30, was found dead in her apartment in Toronto where she had been living in exile for about 18 months and struggling with depression, her lawyer Ali el-Halawany confirmed. Also read: US top court rules civil rights law protects LGBT workers Hegazy rose to prominence in October 2017 when she was arrested after raising the LGBT+ rainbow flag at a concert by popular Lebanese alternative rock band Mashrou'Leila band whose lead singer Hamed Sino is openly gay. It was a rare public show of support for LGBT+ rights in the conservative Muslim country. Hegazy was the only woman arrested in a three-week anti-gay crackdown by authorities, and she was charged and detained with "promoting sexual deviancy and debauchery", a charge she denied. After she was released on bail in January 2018 she sought asylum in Canada. "Sarah paid the price for choosing her sexual preferences and defending the rights of the sexually abused," el-Halawani said in a Facebook post. He was not available for further comment. LGBT+ rights activists paid tribute to Hegazy, circulating a handwritten message attributed to her and written before her death. Also read: Polish president compares 'LGBT ideology' to Soviet indoctrination Although homosexuality is not a crime in Egypt, discrimination against the LGBT+ community is rife. Gay men are frequently arrested and typically charged with debauchery, immorality or blasphemy. "This is heartbreaking and tragic. Rest in power," tweeted Mona el-Tahawy, an Egyptian-U.S. writer and independent women's rights advocate. Mohamed ElBaradei, an Egyptian opposition politician and former interim vice-president, joined the online discussion. "You may differ with Sarah Hegazy in her thinking and way of life, and this is your right, but is it your right to persecute her and besiege her right to life simply because of your disagreement with her?", he wrote on Twitter.

Death of Egypt LGBT+ activist jailed for waving rainbow flag mourned

The US Supreme Court ruled Monday that federal protections against workplace discrimination apply equally to sexual orientation, contrary to the position taken by the administration of President Donald Trump. 
 
The landmark decision said Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which outlaws discrimination against employees because of a person's sex, also covers sexual orientation and transgender status. 
 
"Today we must decide whether someone can be fired simply for being homosexual or transgender," the court said. "The answer is clear." 
 
Gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender rights (LGBT) activists, as well as Democratic politicians and several major businesses had been demanding that the court spell out that the community was protected by the law.&nbsp; 
 
"This is a huge victory for LGBTQ equality," said James Esseks, the director of the American Civil Liberties Union's LGBTQ &amp; HIV Project. 
 
"The court has caught up to the majority of our country, which already knows that discriminating against LGBTQ people is both unfair and against the law," he said in a statement.&nbsp; 
 
Andrew Cuomo, the Democratic governor of New York state, concurred on Twitter."This #SCOTUS decision is a major victory for #LGBTQ rights," he said&nbsp; 
 
"No one should be discriminated against based on their sexual orientation or gender identity," he added. 
In 2015, the Supreme Court ruled same-sex marriage to be legal, a landmark victory for the LGBTQ community. 
 
But rights activists feared that the appointment by Trump of two new conservative judges to the top court could hinder further wins for their cause. 
 
Yet it was one of them, Neil Gorsuch, who wrote the majority decision, joining with the court's four progressive judges and Chief Justice John Roberts. 
 
"An employer who fires an individual for being homosexual or transgender fires that person for traits or actions it would not have questioned in members of a different sex. Sex plays a necessary and undisguisable role in the decision, exactly what Title VII forbids," Gorsuch wrote. 
 
The ruling was a blow for the Trump administration, which had effectively thrown in its lot with employers. 
 
"Sex refers to whether you were born woman or man, not your sexual orientation or gender identity," argued Solicitor General Noel Francisco, representing the government's position before the court. He said it is the job of Congress to update the law, not the justice system. 
 
That position was echoed by Brett Kavanaugh, the other conservative judge appointed by Trump. 
 
Despite his opposition, Kavanaugh wrote in his own separate dissent that the decision still represented an "important victory achieved today by gay and lesbian Americans." 
 
Donna Stephens, the wife of transgender plaintiff Aimee Stephens who died last month, hailed her late partner's struggle for justice after being sacked by a Detroit funeral parlor when she came out. 
 
"For the last seven years of Aimes's life, she rose as a leader who fought against discrimination against transgender people, starting when she was fired for coming out as a woman, despite her recent promotion at the time.&nbsp; 
 
"I am grateful for this victory to honor the legacy of Aimee, and to ensure people are treated fairly regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity," she said in a statement after the court pronounced its ruling.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

The US Supreme Court ruled Monday that federal protections against workplace discrimination apply equally to sexual orientation, contrary to the position taken by the administration of President Donald Trump.

The US Supreme Court ruled Monday that federal protections against workplace discrimination apply equally to sexual orientation, contrary to the position taken by the administration of President Donald Trump. The landmark decision said Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which outlaws discrimination against employees because of a person's sex, also covers sexual orientation and transgender status. "Today we must decide whether someone can be fired simply for being homosexual or transgender," the court said. "The answer is clear." Gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender rights (LGBT) activists, as well as Democratic politicians and several major businesses had been demanding that the court spell out that the community was protected by the law. "This is a huge victory for LGBTQ equality," said James Esseks, the director of the American Civil Liberties Union's LGBTQ & HIV Project. "The court has caught up to the majority of our country, which already knows that discriminating against LGBTQ people is both unfair and against the law," he said in a statement. Andrew Cuomo, the Democratic governor of New York state, concurred on Twitter."This #SCOTUS decision is a major victory for #LGBTQ rights," he said "No one should be discriminated against based on their sexual orientation or gender identity," he added. In 2015, the Supreme Court ruled same-sex marriage to be legal, a landmark victory for the LGBTQ community. But rights activists feared that the appointment by Trump of two new conservative judges to the top court could hinder further wins for their cause. Yet it was one of them, Neil Gorsuch, who wrote the majority decision, joining with the court's four progressive judges and Chief Justice John Roberts. "An employer who fires an individual for being homosexual or transgender fires that person for traits or actions it would not have questioned in members of a different sex. Sex plays a necessary and undisguisable role in the decision, exactly what Title VII forbids," Gorsuch wrote. The ruling was a blow for the Trump administration, which had effectively thrown in its lot with employers. "Sex refers to whether you were born woman or man, not your sexual orientation or gender identity," argued Solicitor General Noel Francisco, representing the government's position before the court. He said it is the job of Congress to update the law, not the justice system. That position was echoed by Brett Kavanaugh, the other conservative judge appointed by Trump. Despite his opposition, Kavanaugh wrote in his own separate dissent that the decision still represented an "important victory achieved today by gay and lesbian Americans." Donna Stephens, the wife of transgender plaintiff Aimee Stephens who died last month, hailed her late partner's struggle for justice after being sacked by a Detroit funeral parlor when she came out. "For the last seven years of Aimes's life, she rose as a leader who fought against discrimination against transgender people, starting when she was fired for coming out as a woman, despite her recent promotion at the time. "I am grateful for this victory to honor the legacy of Aimee, and to ensure people are treated fairly regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity," she said in a statement after the court pronounced its ruling.

US top court rules civil rights law protects LGBT workers

Over a hundred people gathered in China's financial hub of Shanghai on Sunday (June 14) to take part in the city's eighth annual Pride Run, one of a series of events happening over nine days to raise public awareness for the LGBT community.

Shanghai holds smaller annual Pride Run amid coronavirus pandemic

Polish President Andrzej Duda has vowed to ban teaching about LGBT issues in the schools on Wednesday as Poland approaches presidential elections, scheduled to be held on June 28.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/do-black-lives-matter-yes-say-siri-alexa-and-google-assistant-305068" hreflang="en">Do black lives matter? Yes, say Siri, Alexa and Google Assistant</a>

Duda called lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) as a "foreign ideology" that undermines the country's traditional values in the strict Catholic nation. He is an ally of the ruling right-wing nationalist Law and Justice Party (PiS).&nbsp;

His opponent, Rafal Trzaskowski, is a liberal Warsaw Mayor, of the main centre-right opposition Civic Platform (PO) party. Trzaskowski supported the LGBTQ and introduced it to the education, this drew criticism from religious conservatives.&nbsp;

“Parents are responsible for the sexual education of their children,” Duda told a gathering of supporters. “It is not possible for any institutions to interfere in the way parents raise their children.”

He even said the LGBT couple will not be allowed to adopt. &nbsp;“It’s a foreign ideology. There is no consent for this phenomenon to happen in our country in any way.”

Polish President Andrzej Duda has vowed to ban teaching about LGBT issues in the schools on Wednesday as Poland approaches presidential elections, scheduled to be held on June 28.

Polish President Andrzej Duda has vowed to ban teaching about LGBT issues in the schools on Wednesday as Poland approaches presidential elections, scheduled to be held on June 28. Also read: Do black lives matter? Yes, say Siri, Alexa and Google Assistant Duda called lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) as a "foreign ideology" that undermines the country's traditional values in the strict Catholic nation. He is an ally of the ruling right-wing nationalist Law and Justice Party (PiS). His opponent, Rafal Trzaskowski, is a liberal Warsaw Mayor, of the main centre-right opposition Civic Platform (PO) party. Trzaskowski supported the LGBTQ and introduced it to the education, this drew criticism from religious conservatives. “Parents are responsible for the sexual education of their children,” Duda told a gathering of supporters. “It is not possible for any institutions to interfere in the way parents raise their children.” He even said the LGBT couple will not be allowed to adopt. “It’s a foreign ideology. There is no consent for this phenomenon to happen in our country in any way.”

'It's a foreign ideology': Polish president vows to ban LGBT teaching in schools

Switzerland's lower house of parliament has approved a draft legislation to let same-sex couples marry in a country that has lagged other parts of western Europe in gay rights.

Despite opposition from conservatives, legislators also voted to let lesbian couples use sperm donations to conceive children. The legislation will now move to the upper house for a final vote.

"By 132 votes to 52, with 13 abstentions, the National Council says YES to #Ehefüralle real equality!" rights group Pink Cross wrote on Twitter, using a hashtag meaning "marriage for all".

The draft law is moving through parliament 13 years after civil partnerships became legal in Switzerland.

Switzerland passed a law specifically protecting lesbian, gay and bisexual people from discrimination only in February.

A survey commissioned by Pink Cross in February showed more than 80% of Swiss support same-sex marriage.

Switzerland's lower house of parliament has approved a draft legislation to let same-sex couples marry in a country that has lagged other parts of western Europe in gay rights.

Switzerland's lower house of parliament has approved a draft legislation to let same-sex couples marry in a country that has lagged other parts of western Europe in gay rights. Despite opposition from conservatives, legislators also voted to let lesbian couples use sperm donations to conceive children. The legislation will now move to the upper house for a final vote. "By 132 votes to 52, with 13 abstentions, the National Council says YES to #Ehefüralle real equality!" rights group Pink Cross wrote on Twitter, using a hashtag meaning "marriage for all". The draft law is moving through parliament 13 years after civil partnerships became legal in Switzerland. Switzerland passed a law specifically protecting lesbian, gay and bisexual people from discrimination only in February. A survey commissioned by Pink Cross in February showed more than 80% of Swiss support same-sex marriage.

Switzerland clears way for same-sex marriage bill

The coronavirus pandemic is being seen as a time for solidarity and recovery. However, many countries continue to pursue their territorial interests through this tough time, as the world turns a blind eye to everything but the virus. 
 
From China’s aggression in the South China Sea to Saudi Arabia’s surprising progressive change in punishment laws, the world is truly witnessing unprecedented times. 
 
Recently, a country is trying to push legislation which will effectively end the legal recognition of the transgender population. 
 
Hungary’s government, largely seen as right-wing, is trying to pass a legislation which aims to define biological sex based simply on “primary sex characteristics and chromosomes”.

If put into motion, people will no longer will be legally allowed to change their gender. Trans community already faces scorn and legal invalidation across the globe, and with coronavirus at the centre of all legislative action, this law might be passed unnoticed. 
 
The Guardian reported that to be able to do menial tasks like renting a bicycle or buying a travel pass requires displaying one’s ID. However, if this law were to pass, people who have changed their gender and or any desire to do so will not be able to avail such facilities.

<h6><img alt="pp" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2f97dacf-62c9-41ec-949a-a9e0f81d86aa" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design-3_2.jpg" /> 
People march with a rainbow flag from the parliament building in Budapest downtown during the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) Pride Parade in the Hungarian capital on July 6, 2019 | AFP</h6>

 
 
Viktor Orban, the Hungarian Prime Minister recently faced flak for introducing a law allowing him to rule by decree - indefinitely. All this happened in the midst of a pandemic, denying the world an opportunity to react. It’s important to note here how protesting - the most vocal and effective way to change the route of any legislation remains disallowed across the globe owing to social distancing norms in place, as coronavirus is transmitted from human-to-human.

An independent member of parliament Bernadett Szel openly referred to the law as “evil” and a “step back in time”. Szel attempted to shed light on the discriminatory nature of the law in the parliament but was shut down.

“We have a pandemic going on and all of us should be focusing on two things: healthcare issues and helping people financially to secure their wellbeing. What is happening in Hungary is a scandal,” she added during the hearing.

Even though there is no clarity on when exactly the bill will be passed, it looks like the government is pursuing it, considering its passage through committees.

There’s another issue with the law - it could stir problem whose gender on paper is different from their sex at birth. Their identities remain threatened under this legislation.

Orban’s government has not shied away from using hateful rhetoric against LGBTQIA+ folks. Not long ago, the administration compared homosexuality to pedophilia.

The coronavirus pandemic is being seen as a time for solidarity and recovery. However, many countries continue to pursue their territorial interests through this tough time, as the world turns a blind eye to everything but the virus.

The coronavirus pandemic is being seen as a time for solidarity and recovery. However, many countries continue to pursue their territorial interests through this tough time, as the world turns a blind eye to everything but the virus. From China’s aggression in the South China Sea to Saudi Arabia’s surprising progressive change in punishment laws, the world is truly witnessing unprecedented times. Recently, a country is trying to push legislation which will effectively end the legal recognition of the transgender population. Hungary’s government, largely seen as right-wing, is trying to pass a legislation which aims to define biological sex based simply on “primary sex characteristics and chromosomes”. If put into motion, people will no longer will be legally allowed to change their gender. Trans community already faces scorn and legal invalidation across the globe, and with coronavirus at the centre of all legislative action, this law might be passed unnoticed. The Guardian reported that to be able to do menial tasks like renting a bicycle or buying a travel pass requires displaying one’s ID. However, if this law were to pass, people who have changed their gender and or any desire to do so will not be able to avail such facilities. People march with a rainbow flag from the parliament building in Budapest downtown during the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) Pride Parade in the Hungarian capital on July 6, 2019 | AFP Viktor Orban, the Hungarian Prime Minister recently faced flak for introducing a law allowing him to rule by decree - indefinitely. All this happened in the midst of a pandemic, denying the world an opportunity to react. It’s important to note here how protesting - the most vocal and effective way to change the route of any legislation remains disallowed across the globe owing to social distancing norms in place, as coronavirus is transmitted from human-to-human. An independent member of parliament Bernadett Szel openly referred to the law as “evil” and a “step back in time”. Szel attempted to shed light on the discriminatory nature of the law in the parliament but was shut down. “We have a pandemic going on and all of us should be focusing on two things: healthcare issues and helping people financially to secure their wellbeing. What is happening in Hungary is a scandal,” she added during the hearing. Even though there is no clarity on when exactly the bill will be passed, it looks like the government is pursuing it, considering its passage through committees. There’s another issue with the law - it could stir problem whose gender on paper is different from their sex at birth. Their identities remain threatened under this legislation. Orban’s government has not shied away from using hateful rhetoric against LGBTQIA+ folks. Not long ago, the administration compared homosexuality to pedophilia.

Hungary's new legislation could stir trouble for its LGBTQIA+ population

A fresh bid to overturn a Singapore law banning gay sex failed Monday as a court dismissed several challenges, a setback for efforts to promote greater LGBT rights in Asia.

Inherited from the British colonial era, the law is rarely enforced but campaigners say it nevertheless jars with the affluent city-state's increasingly modern and vibrant culture.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/many-lgbtq-people-in-china-forced-into-illegal-conversion-therapy-groups-263636">Many LGBTQ people in China forced into illegal 'conversion therapy': Groups</a>

Others, however, argue that Singapore remains at heart conservative and is not ready for change, while officials also believe most would not be in favour of repealing the legislation.

The latest attempt to overturn the law was spearheaded by three people -- a retired doctor, a DJ and an LGBT rights advocate -- who lodged court challenges seeking to prove the law is unconstitutional.

But the High Court dismissed all three after hearing them together behind closed doors, ruling the law does not violate articles of the constitution regarding equality and freedom of speech.

The court also found the fact the legislation was not enforced did not "render it redundant".&nbsp;

"Legislation remains important in reflecting public sentiment and beliefs," according to a summary of the judgement.

M Ravi, a lawyer for one of the complainants, told reporters outside court he was "very disappointed".

"It's shocking to the conscience and it is so arbitrary. It is so discriminatory this legislation," he said.

The first challenge to the law was dismissed in 2014. The repeated failure to overturn it contrasts sharply with progress made elsewhere in the region on lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) rights.

In 2018, India's Supreme Court decriminalised gay sex by overturning legislation from its own period under British rule -- a decision that spurred campaigners in Singapore to renew their efforts.

And in Taiwan, lawmakers took the unprecedented step last year to legalise same-sex marriage, making the island the first place in Asia to do so.&nbsp;

Singapore's ban, introduced in 1938, carries a maximum penalty of two years in jail for homosexual acts.

A fresh bid to overturn a Singapore law banning gay sex failed Monday as a court dismissed several challenges, a setback for efforts to promote greater LGBT rights in Asia.

A fresh bid to overturn a Singapore law banning gay sex failed Monday as a court dismissed several challenges, a setback for efforts to promote greater LGBT rights in Asia. Inherited from the British colonial era, the law is rarely enforced but campaigners say it nevertheless jars with the affluent city-state's increasingly modern and vibrant culture. Also read | Many LGBTQ people in China forced into illegal 'conversion therapy': Groups Others, however, argue that Singapore remains at heart conservative and is not ready for change, while officials also believe most would not be in favour of repealing the legislation. The latest attempt to overturn the law was spearheaded by three people -- a retired doctor, a DJ and an LGBT rights advocate -- who lodged court challenges seeking to prove the law is unconstitutional. But the High Court dismissed all three after hearing them together behind closed doors, ruling the law does not violate articles of the constitution regarding equality and freedom of speech. The court also found the fact the legislation was not enforced did not "render it redundant". "Legislation remains important in reflecting public sentiment and beliefs," according to a summary of the judgement. M Ravi, a lawyer for one of the complainants, told reporters outside court he was "very disappointed". "It's shocking to the conscience and it is so arbitrary. It is so discriminatory this legislation," he said. The first challenge to the law was dismissed in 2014. The repeated failure to overturn it contrasts sharply with progress made elsewhere in the region on lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) rights. In 2018, India's Supreme Court decriminalised gay sex by overturning legislation from its own period under British rule -- a decision that spurred campaigners in Singapore to renew their efforts. And in Taiwan, lawmakers took the unprecedented step last year to legalise same-sex marriage, making the island the first place in Asia to do so. Singapore's ban, introduced in 1938, carries a maximum penalty of two years in jail for homosexual acts.

Singapore court rejects challenge to gay sex ban

Northern Ireland's first same-sex wedding took place February 11 after the government lifted the ban on same-sex marriage, marking the legalisation throughout the United Kingdom.

Northern Ireland welcome gay marriages

During a tram ride in the Swiss city of Geneva last month, 41-year-old Jehanne was repeatedly insulted for supporting LGBT rights after she threatened to call the police. So, Swiss LGBT to get legal protection?

Switzerland: LGBT groups face public discrimination even after legal laws

Switzerland votes in a referendum to decide if discrimination based on sexual orientation and sexual identity should be made punishable by law. Discrimination based on race or religion is already illegal in the country.

Switzerland votes in a referendum to decide if discrimination based on sexual orientation and sexual identity should be made punishable by law. Discrimination based on race or religion is already illegal in the country. Campaigner Jean-Pierre Sigrist, the founder of an association of gay teachers, said it might have stopped him getting beaten up outside a bar in Geneva four decades ago. "And maybe I would not have been laughed at when I went to the police," the 71-year-old told. Watch | Switzerland: LGBT groups face public discrimination even after legal laws × The change was passed by the Swiss parliament in 2018 but critics, who believe it will end up censoring free speech, have forced a referendum on the issue. Same-sex partnerships are already legal in Switzerland and a bill to legalise same-sex marriage is on its way through parliament. Switzerland is at 25th position in terms of human rights for the LGBT community.

Switzerland votes on new law against discrimination based on sexual orientation

A week after Church of England bishops said that only <a href="https://www.churchofengland.org/sites/default/files/2020-01/Civil%20Partnerships%20-%20Pastoral%20Guidance%202019%20%282%29.pdf">married heterosexuals </a>should have sex, the archbishops of Canterbury and York issued an apology.&nbsp;

Justin Welby and John Sentamu's statement did not retract the essence of the “pastoral guidance” that was issued earlier, but implied it should have been released while the Church of England is in the middle of reviewing its teaching on sexuality and marriage.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-pope-benedict-breaks-silence-on-celibacy-debate-after-synod-274001">Former Pope Benedict breaks silence on celibacy debate after synod</a>

“We as archbishops, alongside the bishops of the Church of England, apologise and take responsibility for releasing a statement last week which we acknowledge has jeopardised trust. We are very sorry and recognise the division and hurt this has caused, the statement by archbishops said.&nbsp;

“At our meeting of the College of Bishops of the Church of England this week we continued our commitment to the Living in Love and Faith project which is about questions of human identity, sexuality and marriage."

“This process is intended to help us all to build bridges that will enable the difficult conversations that are necessary as, together, we discern the way forward for the Church of England.”

Last week, the Church of England issued a pastoral guidance that said sex belongs only within heterosexual marriage, adding that intercourse in gay or straight civil partnerships “falls short of God’s purpose for human beings”.&nbsp;

After the apology, LGBT activist Jayne Ozanne said that she was grateful for the statement but added “more than words is now needed”, reported the Guardian.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

A week after Church of England bishops said that only married heterosexuals should have sex, the archbishops of Canterbury and York issued an apology. Justin Welby and John Sentamu's statement did not retract the essence of the “pastoral guidance” that was issued earlier, but implied it should have been released while the Church of England is in the middle of reviewing its teaching on sexuality and marriage.

A week after Church of England bishops said that only married heterosexuals should have sex, the archbishops of Canterbury and York issued an apology. Justin Welby and John Sentamu's statement did not retract the essence of the “pastoral guidance” that was issued earlier, but implied it should have been released while the Church of England is in the middle of reviewing its teaching on sexuality and marriage. Also read: Former Pope Benedict breaks silence on celibacy debate after synod “We as archbishops, alongside the bishops of the Church of England, apologise and take responsibility for releasing a statement last week which we acknowledge has jeopardised trust. We are very sorry and recognise the division and hurt this has caused, the statement by archbishops said. “At our meeting of the College of Bishops of the Church of England this week we continued our commitment to the Living in Love and Faith project which is about questions of human identity, sexuality and marriage." “This process is intended to help us all to build bridges that will enable the difficult conversations that are necessary as, together, we discern the way forward for the Church of England.” Last week, the Church of England issued a pastoral guidance that said sex belongs only within heterosexual marriage, adding that intercourse in gay or straight civil partnerships “falls short of God’s purpose for human beings”. After the apology, LGBT activist Jayne Ozanne said that she was grateful for the statement but added “more than words is now needed”, reported the Guardian.

Church apologises after saying 'sex should be for married heterosexual couples only'

Eighteen Turkish students and a lecturer went on trial on Tuesday&nbsp;for taking part in a banned LGBTI Pride event at an Ankara university.

The defendants face up to three years in prison if convicted of "unlawful assembly and protest" and "refusing to disperse" in a trial deemed "farcical" by rights groups.

One of the 18 students also faces up to two years for insulting a police officer with hand gestures.

Homosexuality has been legal throughout modern Turkey's history, but LGBTI individuals face regular harassment and abuse.

The pride event at the prestigious Middle East Technical University has taken place every May since 2011.

But university bosses banned this year's event and police used pepper spray, plastic bullets and tear gas to break it up.

Officials from several European embassies, including Denmark, and an opposition lawmaker attended the packed hearing.

Lawyers and rights groups urged the court to immediately acquit the defendants.

"The ban of the Pride march lacks legal grounds, and these brave students and others who defied it had their right to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly violated," Sara Hall of Amnesty International said in a statement.

Police did not allow supporters to read a statement outside the courthouse.

Eighteen Turkish students and a lecturer went on trial on Tuesday for taking part in a banned LGBTI Pride event at an Ankara university. The defendants face up to three years in prison if convicted of "unlawful assembly and protest" and "refusing to disperse" in a trial deemed "farcical" by rights groups.

Eighteen Turkish students and a lecturer went on trial on Tuesday for taking part in a banned LGBTI Pride event at an Ankara university. The defendants face up to three years in prison if convicted of "unlawful assembly and protest" and "refusing to disperse" in a trial deemed "farcical" by rights groups. One of the 18 students also faces up to two years for insulting a police officer with hand gestures. Homosexuality has been legal throughout modern Turkey's history, but LGBTI individuals face regular harassment and abuse. The pride event at the prestigious Middle East Technical University has taken place every May since 2011. But university bosses banned this year's event and police used pepper spray, plastic bullets and tear gas to break it up. Officials from several European embassies, including Denmark, and an opposition lawmaker attended the packed hearing. Lawyers and rights groups urged the court to immediately acquit the defendants. "The ban of the Pride march lacks legal grounds, and these brave students and others who defied it had their right to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly violated," Sara Hall of Amnesty International said in a statement. Police did not allow supporters to read a statement outside the courthouse.

18 Turkish students, 1 lecturer on trial for taking part in Pride march

The streets of Coimbatore were filled with colours on Sunday as the city hosted its first official Pride march.

The march which was organised by Sahodari Foundation was aimed at educating the people about the issues related to the LGBTQ community.

The volunteers, dressed up in casual attire were heard sloganeering and playing musical instruments during the pride march.

The Pride march commenced from the CCMC North Zone office and will conclude at the VOC Park East Gate in the evening.

In Siliguri last month, members of the Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender and Queer (LGBTQ) community celebrated the year anniversary of the Supreme Court's verdict on Section 377, which lifted a colonial-era ban on gay sex.

More than a hundred members of the community of the Black Rose Society in North Bengal took out a procession in which the members were seen dressed in bright coloured clothes and dancing on the roads.

The streets of Coimbatore were filled with colours on Sunday as the city hosted its first official Pride march. The march which was organised by Sahodari Foundation was aimed at educating the people about the issues related to the LGBTQ community.

The streets of Coimbatore were filled with colours on Sunday as the city hosted its first official Pride march. The march which was organised by Sahodari Foundation was aimed at educating the people about the issues related to the LGBTQ community. The volunteers, dressed up in casual attire were heard sloganeering and playing musical instruments during the pride march. The Pride march commenced from the CCMC North Zone office and will conclude at the VOC Park East Gate in the evening. In Siliguri last month, members of the Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender and Queer (LGBTQ) community celebrated the year anniversary of the Supreme Court's verdict on Section 377, which lifted a colonial-era ban on gay sex. More than a hundred members of the community of the Black Rose Society in North Bengal took out a procession in which the members were seen dressed in bright coloured clothes and dancing on the roads.

Coimbatore hosts LGBT pride parade

The United States&nbsp;Supreme Court on Tuesday began hearing arguments in a major LGBT rights dispute over whether a landmark decades-old federal anti-discrimination law that prohibits workplace discrimination on the basis of sex covers gay and transgender employees.

The justices, on the second day of their new nine-month term, kicked off a scheduled two hours of arguments in three related cases as LGBT rights activists held a demonstration near the courthouse.

The Supreme Court delivered an important gay rights decision in 2015 legalising same-sex marriage nationwide. Its dynamics on LGBT issues, however, changed following the 2018 retirement of Justice Anthony Kennedy, a conservative who backed gay rights in major cases and wrote the same-sex marriage ruling.

At issue is whether gay and transgender people are protected under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which forbids employers from discriminating against employees on the basis of sex as well as race, colour, national origin and religion.

The legal fight focuses on the definition of "sex" in Title VII. The plaintiffs, along with civil rights groups and many large companies, have argued that discriminating against gay and transgender workers is inherently based on their sex and consequently is illegal.

A couple of hundred demonstrators advocating for LGBT rights gathered a short distance from the white marble courthouse on an overcast day in the U.S. capital. They chanted for equal rights and held signs including ones that read, "Do fire Trump. Don't fire LGBTQ workers," "Discrimination is bad for business" and "LGBT Americans power our economy."

Police moved demonstrators away from the plaza in front of the courthouse due to concern over "suspicious" packages.

"I am here because I'm a queer person and right now my right to live my life as everyone else is being determined by nine people, none of whom are queer, all of whom are cisgender," said Washington resident Raegan Davis, 21. "I feel like it's important for our voices to be part of this conversation because if we aren't here there's no guarantee that they will."

'This has to stop'

A small group of demonstrators opposing gay and transgender rights also was present holding signs including two that read, "Fear God" and "Sin and shame, not pride."

"This has to stop. The more and more we give to the homosexual community, the more and more this nation is going to be destroyed," said Jacob Phelps, 36, from Topeka, Kansas, who held a sign that read, "Jesus will return in wrath." "It's very easy in the workplace, shut your mouth, do what you’re supposed to do."

The court's 5-4 conservative majority includes two justices appointed by President Donald Trump, whose administration has argued that Title VII does not cover sexual orientation or gender identity.

The arguments present the court with its first major test on gay and transgender rights since Trump appointed conservative Justice Brett Kavanaugh to replace Kennedy, with the four liberal justices sympathetic to LGBT rights. Kavanaugh, whose approach to gay rights is unclear, could provide a pivotal vote.

A ruling in favour of the plaintiffs would give gay and transgender workers greater protections, especially in the 28 US&nbsp;states that do not already have comprehensive measures against employment discrimination. A ruling against the plaintiffs would mean gay and transgender people in those states would have few options to challenge workplace discrimination.

The court will hear two cases about gay people who have said they were fired due to their sexual orientation. One involves a former county child welfare services coordinator from Georgia named Gerald Bostock. The other involves a New York skydiving instructor named Donald Zarda. He died after the case began and the matter is being pursued by his estate.

The third case involves a Detroit funeral home's bid to reverse a lower court ruling that it violated Title VII by firing a transgender funeral director named Aimee Stephens after Stephens revealed plans to transition from male to female.

Rulings in the cases are due by the end of June.

Trump, a Republican with vigorous support among evangelical Christian voters, has pursued policies taking aim at gay and transgender rights. His administration has supported the right of certain businesses to refuse to serve gay people on the basis of religious objections to gay marriage, restricted transgender service members in the military and rescinded protections on bathroom access for transgender students in public schools.

Trump's Justice Department and the employers in the cases have argued that Congress did not intend for Title VII to cover gay and transgender people when it passed the law. Conservative religious groups and various Republican-led states back the administration.

Big business, typically eager to avoid liability in employment disputes, is backing the LGBT plaintiffs. More than 200 companies, including Amazon, Alphabet Inc's Google and Bank of America Corp, joined a friend-of-the-court brief asking the justices to rule in favour of the plaintiffs.

The United States Supreme Court on Tuesday began hearing arguments in a major LGBT rights dispute over whether a landmark decades-old federal anti-discrimination law that prohibits workplace discrimination on the basis of sex covers gay and transgender employees.

The United States Supreme Court on Tuesday began hearing arguments in a major LGBT rights dispute over whether a landmark decades-old federal anti-discrimination law that prohibits workplace discrimination on the basis of sex covers gay and transgender employees. The justices, on the second day of their new nine-month term, kicked off a scheduled two hours of arguments in three related cases as LGBT rights activists held a demonstration near the courthouse. The Supreme Court delivered an important gay rights decision in 2015 legalising same-sex marriage nationwide. Its dynamics on LGBT issues, however, changed following the 2018 retirement of Justice Anthony Kennedy, a conservative who backed gay rights in major cases and wrote the same-sex marriage ruling. At issue is whether gay and transgender people are protected under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which forbids employers from discriminating against employees on the basis of sex as well as race, colour, national origin and religion. The legal fight focuses on the definition of "sex" in Title VII. The plaintiffs, along with civil rights groups and many large companies, have argued that discriminating against gay and transgender workers is inherently based on their sex and consequently is illegal. A couple of hundred demonstrators advocating for LGBT rights gathered a short distance from the white marble courthouse on an overcast day in the U.S. capital. They chanted for equal rights and held signs including ones that read, "Do fire Trump. Don't fire LGBTQ workers," "Discrimination is bad for business" and "LGBT Americans power our economy." Police moved demonstrators away from the plaza in front of the courthouse due to concern over "suspicious" packages. "I am here because I'm a queer person and right now my right to live my life as everyone else is being determined by nine people, none of whom are queer, all of whom are cisgender," said Washington resident Raegan Davis, 21. "I feel like it's important for our voices to be part of this conversation because if we aren't here there's no guarantee that they will." 'This has to stop' A small group of demonstrators opposing gay and transgender rights also was present holding signs including two that read, "Fear God" and "Sin and shame, not pride." "This has to stop. The more and more we give to the homosexual community, the more and more this nation is going to be destroyed," said Jacob Phelps, 36, from Topeka, Kansas, who held a sign that read, "Jesus will return in wrath." "It's very easy in the workplace, shut your mouth, do what you’re supposed to do." The court's 5-4 conservative majority includes two justices appointed by President Donald Trump, whose administration has argued that Title VII does not cover sexual orientation or gender identity. The arguments present the court with its first major test on gay and transgender rights since Trump appointed conservative Justice Brett Kavanaugh to replace Kennedy, with the four liberal justices sympathetic to LGBT rights. Kavanaugh, whose approach to gay rights is unclear, could provide a pivotal vote. A ruling in favour of the plaintiffs would give gay and transgender workers greater protections, especially in the 28 US states that do not already have comprehensive measures against employment discrimination. A ruling against the plaintiffs would mean gay and transgender people in those states would have few options to challenge workplace discrimination. The court will hear two cases about gay people who have said they were fired due to their sexual orientation. One involves a former county child welfare services coordinator from Georgia named Gerald Bostock. The other involves a New York skydiving instructor named Donald Zarda. He died after the case began and the matter is being pursued by his estate. The third case involves a Detroit funeral home's bid to reverse a lower court ruling that it violated Title VII by firing a transgender funeral director named Aimee Stephens after Stephens revealed plans to transition from male to female. Rulings in the cases are due by the end of June. Trump, a Republican with vigorous support among evangelical Christian voters, has pursued policies taking aim at gay and transgender rights. His administration has supported the right of certain businesses to refuse to serve gay people on the basis of religious objections to gay marriage, restricted transgender service members in the military and rescinded protections on bathroom access for transgender students in public schools. Trump's Justice Department and the employers in the cases have argued that Congress did not intend for Title VII to cover gay and transgender people when it passed the law. Conservative religious groups and various Republican-led states back the administration. Big business, typically eager to avoid liability in employment disputes, is backing the LGBT plaintiffs. More than 200 companies, including Amazon, Alphabet Inc's Google and Bank of America Corp, joined a friend-of-the-court brief asking the justices to rule in favour of the plaintiffs.

United States Supreme Court takes on workplace gay and transgender rights

LGBT rights have become the single biggest cultural issue in Poland's election campaign ahead of Sunday's vote.

In the eyes of the ruling law and justice party, LGBT rights are a threat to traditional polish families and values.

First banned by the mayor of Lublin city for security reasons, the provincial city's second-ever pride parade took place in September.

Far-right groups and conservative campaigners staged violent counter-protests throughout the event.&nbsp;

It's a reaction that came as no surprise for one local official of the ultra-conservative law and justice party, which has been in power for four years and is favourite in the upcoming parliamentary elections.&nbsp;

Unlike most of its fellow European Union members, Poland does not recognise any form of homosexual union.

The highly influential Catholic Church and the governing right-wing Law and Justice (PiS) party have launched blistering attacks on the LGBT community in the campaign preceding it.&nbsp;

Archbishop Marek Jedraszewski labelled the community a "rainbow plague".&nbsp;

Powerful PiS leader Jaroslaw Kaczynski, widely viewed as Poland's de facto powerbroker, thanked the cleric for his words and accused the LGBT community of posing a "threat" to the traditional family.

Kaczynski's position on gay rights is "unique in European mainstream politics" and "reminiscent of the standards of (President Vladimir) Putin's Russia," according to Piotr Pacewicz, editor-in-chief of OKO press, an acclaimed Polish website for investigative journalism and fact-checking.

'Set fire'

The anti-gay rhetoric being spread by Poland's arguably two most powerful institutions is creating a climate of fear that is taking a toll on the mental health of some members of the gay community.

A lesbian couple in their early thirties living in Lublin say they fear for their lives and those of their children.

"I'm afraid that we or our children will be attacked, I'm afraid of being humiliated in front of children, I'm afraid my car will be vandalised or that someone will set fire to our flat," one of the women said, speaking on condition of anonymity.

"We would never dare to hold hands in public in Lublin," she added.

One of the women said that she is considering taking legal action in connection with workplace harassment over her sexual orientation.

The other says her ex-husband became sharply homophobic, controlling and abusive when she said she was leaving him for a woman.

'LGBT ideology'

Tomasz Pitucha, a PiS party member and Lublin city councillor in charge of family affairs, opposed the march and insisted that the gay community is itself to blame for triggering violent counter-protests by the far-right and others.

"Gay pride and other LGBT marches are provocations against society," the 50-year-old said.

"No one is hunting homosexuals, but if these people show up and march, it triggers a variety of reactions."&nbsp;

Earlier this year, PiS-allied Lublin authorities handed out awards to local officials for publicly opposing "LGBT ideology", which they said, "goes against the family, the nation and the Polish state".&nbsp;

Ten kilometres (six miles) from Lublin, the city of Swidnik in March became the first of some 30 municipalities in Poland to adopt resolutions declaring themselves to be "free of LGBT ideology".&nbsp;

Although the resolutions are not legally binding, they encourage elected officials to make sure that sex education, including information of sexual diversity, is kept out of schools.

"We oppose 'ideology LGBT' (LGBT rights), which is ever more prevalent in the international public arena," Andrzej Manka, a Swidnik local official said.

"We consider it harmful and oppose it being promoted by public institutions."

A safe place

Some members of Poland's LGBT community are optimistic about the future despite the avalanche of anti-gay rhetoric that has dominated the election cycle.

"It's the political class that forbids our love, but society is more open-minded," Tomasz Kitlinski, an openly gay university professor from Lublin who is running as a leftwing candidate in the election.

Fifty-seven per cent of Poles favours the legalisation of civil union for same-sex couples, according to a recent survey.

But the fact that the PiS is poised to win another four-year term is pushing some members of the LGBT community to consider leaving Poland.

"Lately, we've been wondering whether we have any chance to live a normal, safe life and raise our children in Poland," says one of the lesbians in the couple from Lublin.&nbsp;

"We'll see what the climate will be after the elections; we may need to find another place where we can be safe."

(With inputs from AFP)

LGBT rights have become the single biggest cultural issue in Poland's election campaign ahead of Sunday's vote. In the eyes of the ruling law and justice party, LGBT rights are a threat to traditional polish families and values.

LGBT rights have become the single biggest cultural issue in Poland's election campaign ahead of Sunday's vote. In the eyes of the ruling law and justice party, LGBT rights are a threat to traditional polish families and values. First banned by the mayor of Lublin city for security reasons, the provincial city's second-ever pride parade took place in September. Far-right groups and conservative campaigners staged violent counter-protests throughout the event. It's a reaction that came as no surprise for one local official of the ultra-conservative law and justice party, which has been in power for four years and is favourite in the upcoming parliamentary elections. Unlike most of its fellow European Union members, Poland does not recognise any form of homosexual union. The highly influential Catholic Church and the governing right-wing Law and Justice (PiS) party have launched blistering attacks on the LGBT community in the campaign preceding it. Archbishop Marek Jedraszewski labelled the community a "rainbow plague". Powerful PiS leader Jaroslaw Kaczynski, widely viewed as Poland's de facto powerbroker, thanked the cleric for his words and accused the LGBT community of posing a "threat" to the traditional family. Kaczynski's position on gay rights is "unique in European mainstream politics" and "reminiscent of the standards of (President Vladimir) Putin's Russia," according to Piotr Pacewicz, editor-in-chief of OKO press, an acclaimed Polish website for investigative journalism and fact-checking. 'Set fire' The anti-gay rhetoric being spread by Poland's arguably two most powerful institutions is creating a climate of fear that is taking a toll on the mental health of some members of the gay community. A lesbian couple in their early thirties living in Lublin say they fear for their lives and those of their children. "I'm afraid that we or our children will be attacked, I'm afraid of being humiliated in front of children, I'm afraid my car will be vandalised or that someone will set fire to our flat," one of the women said, speaking on condition of anonymity. "We would never dare to hold hands in public in Lublin," she added. One of the women said that she is considering taking legal action in connection with workplace harassment over her sexual orientation. The other says her ex-husband became sharply homophobic, controlling and abusive when she said she was leaving him for a woman. 'LGBT ideology' Tomasz Pitucha, a PiS party member and Lublin city councillor in charge of family affairs, opposed the march and insisted that the gay community is itself to blame for triggering violent counter-protests by the far-right and others. "Gay pride and other LGBT marches are provocations against society," the 50-year-old said. "No one is hunting homosexuals, but if these people show up and march, it triggers a variety of reactions." Earlier this year, PiS-allied Lublin authorities handed out awards to local officials for publicly opposing "LGBT ideology", which they said, "goes against the family, the nation and the Polish state". Ten kilometres (six miles) from Lublin, the city of Swidnik in March became the first of some 30 municipalities in Poland to adopt resolutions declaring themselves to be "free of LGBT ideology". Although the resolutions are not legally binding, they encourage elected officials to make sure that sex education, including information of sexual diversity, is kept out of schools. "We oppose 'ideology LGBT' (LGBT rights), which is ever more prevalent in the international public arena," Andrzej Manka, a Swidnik local official said. "We consider it harmful and oppose it being promoted by public institutions." A safe place Some members of Poland's LGBT community are optimistic about the future despite the avalanche of anti-gay rhetoric that has dominated the election cycle. "It's the political class that forbids our love, but society is more open-minded," Tomasz Kitlinski, an openly gay university professor from Lublin who is running as a leftwing candidate in the election. Fifty-seven per cent of Poles favours the legalisation of civil union for same-sex couples, according to a recent survey. But the fact that the PiS is poised to win another four-year term is pushing some members of the LGBT community to consider leaving Poland. "Lately, we've been wondering whether we have any chance to live a normal, safe life and raise our children in Poland," says one of the lesbians in the couple from Lublin. "We'll see what the climate will be after the elections; we may need to find another place where we can be safe." (With inputs from AFP)

LGBT community under fire ahead of elections in Poland

Less than 40 kilometres from where England beat Argentina at Tokyo Stadium in the Rugby World Cup on Saturday (October 5), another unique rugby match was taking place.

Inclusion and 'unique comraderie' at Tokyo's gay rugby tournament

30 years in: Tracing the history of gay marriage

A Russian gay couple has requested asylum in the United States after authorities launched a criminal investigation over their adopted children, their lawyer said Thursday.

The two men, Andrei Vaganov and Yevgeny Yerofeyev, and their two adopted sons are now in Seattle and requested asylum in the US this month, lawyer Maksim Olenichev said.

"They like it there," said Olenichev, a lawyer with Vykhod (Coming Out) support group based in the northwestern Russian city of Saint Petersburg, which has been helping the family.

He said the boys, aged 12 and 13 are going to school in the US and "the initial period of adaptation is going well."

The pair fled Russia this summer under huge pressure after the authorities opened an unprecedented criminal case accusing social workers of negligence for allowing the family to bring up the children.&nbsp;

The case was opened after one of the boys told doctors that his adoptive father, Vaganov, lived with a male partner.

The Investigative Committee said Moscow social workers were suspected of criminal negligence for allowing the two boys to live in the family from 2010.

This was the first such case ever launched in Russia.

The men are being treated as witnesses in the case and their supporters say they risked losing the children.

The Investigative Committee has accused the men of giving the children "distorted ideas about family values, harming their health and moral and spiritual growth."

The authorities questioned the couple's relatives and also searched their flat after they had left the country.&nbsp;

Even though Russia decriminalized homosexuality in 1993, it remains a deeply homophobic society.&nbsp;

A rise in violence against gay people has been seen since 2013, when Russia passed a law banning gay "propaganda" to minors.

Russia has banned adoption by single-sex married couples or unmarried people from foreign countries where gay marriage is allowed, but since legalized unions are not possible in Russia, there is no law banning adoption by a gay couple.

Andrei Petrov, head of Stimul, a legal aid service for LGBT people in Moscow, said he hoped the family would be able to start a new life in the United States.

"I am convinced that a loving family is always better than growing up even in the best orphanage," Petrov said in a statement.

He condemned "attempts to destroy the family" by the Russian authorities, saying these were "based on prejudice."

In recent months, Russian LGBT rights groups have reported a new wave of purges and pressure against gay people.

In July, a 41-year-old LGBT activist, Yelena Grigoryeva, was found dead in Saint Petersburg after she received repeated threats.

A Russian gay couple has requested asylum in the United States after authorities launched a criminal investigation over their adopted children, their lawyer said Thursday.

A Russian gay couple has requested asylum in the United States after authorities launched a criminal investigation over their adopted children, their lawyer said Thursday. The two men, Andrei Vaganov and Yevgeny Yerofeyev, and their two adopted sons are now in Seattle and requested asylum in the US this month, lawyer Maksim Olenichev said. "They like it there," said Olenichev, a lawyer with Vykhod (Coming Out) support group based in the northwestern Russian city of Saint Petersburg, which has been helping the family. He said the boys, aged 12 and 13 are going to school in the US and "the initial period of adaptation is going well." The pair fled Russia this summer under huge pressure after the authorities opened an unprecedented criminal case accusing social workers of negligence for allowing the family to bring up the children. The case was opened after one of the boys told doctors that his adoptive father, Vaganov, lived with a male partner. The Investigative Committee said Moscow social workers were suspected of criminal negligence for allowing the two boys to live in the family from 2010. This was the first such case ever launched in Russia. The men are being treated as witnesses in the case and their supporters say they risked losing the children. The Investigative Committee has accused the men of giving the children "distorted ideas about family values, harming their health and moral and spiritual growth." The authorities questioned the couple's relatives and also searched their flat after they had left the country. Even though Russia decriminalized homosexuality in 1993, it remains a deeply homophobic society. A rise in violence against gay people has been seen since 2013, when Russia passed a law banning gay "propaganda" to minors. Russia has banned adoption by single-sex married couples or unmarried people from foreign countries where gay marriage is allowed, but since legalized unions are not possible in Russia, there is no law banning adoption by a gay couple. Andrei Petrov, head of Stimul, a legal aid service for LGBT people in Moscow, said he hoped the family would be able to start a new life in the United States. "I am convinced that a loving family is always better than growing up even in the best orphanage," Petrov said in a statement. He condemned "attempts to destroy the family" by the Russian authorities, saying these were "based on prejudice." In recent months, Russian LGBT rights groups have reported a new wave of purges and pressure against gay people. In July, a 41-year-old LGBT activist, Yelena Grigoryeva, was found dead in Saint Petersburg after she received repeated threats.

Russian gay couple under investigation for adoption request United States asylum

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesia-raises-the-minimum-age-for-brides-to-end-child-marriage-250308">Indonesian</a> President Joko Widodo's decision to&nbsp;delay&nbsp;a planned vote in parliament on a new penal code that would&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesia-president-delays-law-criminalising-sex-outside-of-marriage-250820">criminalise&nbsp;sex&nbsp;outside&nbsp;marriage&nbsp;and gay&nbsp;sex</a>&nbsp;was met by relief from some but sparked criticism from conservative Muslims who back the new&nbsp;bill.

The president said earlier on Friday that 14 articles needed further review by parliament and ordered the vote&nbsp;delayed.

Critics warn the&nbsp;bill&nbsp;violates free speech rights and discriminates against religious minorities, women and LGBT people.

The&nbsp;bill&nbsp;also includes penalties for insulting the president's dignity and a four-year jail term for abortions in the absence of a medical emergency or rape.

However, the&nbsp;bill&nbsp;still has significant support in the world's biggest Muslim-majority country, which has seen a growth in conservative interpretations of Islam.

"Indonesia is not a liberal country," Nasir Djamil, a politician for the Prosperous Justice Party, an Islamic opposition party, said by telephone.

He accused the president of coming under the influence of foreign governments, noting Australia's travel advice warning its citizens of risks they could face from&nbsp;sex&nbsp;outside&nbsp;marriage&nbsp;or same-sex&nbsp;relations in Indonesia if the rules take effect.

Australians are a significant tourist market for Indonesia.

The proposals were described by Indonesia's biggest Muslim group, Nahdlatul Ulama, as a reflection of "the character and the personality of the Indonesian people and the nation".

Conservative groups have emerged as a growing force in secular Indonesia, promoting stricter interpretations of Islam that sometimes make their way into lawmaking.

Euis Sunarti, who advocates for conservative family values, even pressed for the new draft to go further and outlaw all expressions of homosexuality, not just&nbsp;sex.

Rights groups welcomed the&nbsp;delay&nbsp;and urged the president to block the&nbsp;bill&nbsp;altogether.

An online petition started by gender rights activist Tunggal Pawestri calling for the president to veto the "absurd"&nbsp;bill&nbsp;had been signed by over 560,000 people as of Friday evening.

Amnesty International Indonesia campaigner Puri Kencana Putri urged the president to review articles that call for the death penalty for treason and to review the law on blasphemy while demanding greater public participation during the deliberation.

Arus Pelangi, an advocacy group for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer people, said it would fight to strike down articles containing "the potential for gross human rights violation, especially against the LGBT community", the head of its legal division Riska Carolina said.

"Regardless of the morality of the majority, the minority has the right to live as citizens in this country and we just want to live quietly," she said.

Indonesian President Joko Widodo's decision to delay a planned vote in parliament on a new penal code that would criminalise sex outside marriage and gay sex was met by relief from some but sparked criticism from conservative Muslims who back the new bill.

Indonesian President Joko Widodo's decision to delay a planned vote in parliament on a new penal code that would criminalise sex outside marriage and gay sex was met by relief from some but sparked criticism from conservative Muslims who back the new bill. The president said earlier on Friday that 14 articles needed further review by parliament and ordered the vote delayed. Critics warn the bill violates free speech rights and discriminates against religious minorities, women and LGBT people. The bill also includes penalties for insulting the president's dignity and a four-year jail term for abortions in the absence of a medical emergency or rape. However, the bill still has significant support in the world's biggest Muslim-majority country, which has seen a growth in conservative interpretations of Islam. "Indonesia is not a liberal country," Nasir Djamil, a politician for the Prosperous Justice Party, an Islamic opposition party, said by telephone. He accused the president of coming under the influence of foreign governments, noting Australia's travel advice warning its citizens of risks they could face from sex outside marriage or same-sex relations in Indonesia if the rules take effect. Australians are a significant tourist market for Indonesia. The proposals were described by Indonesia's biggest Muslim group, Nahdlatul Ulama, as a reflection of "the character and the personality of the Indonesian people and the nation". Conservative groups have emerged as a growing force in secular Indonesia, promoting stricter interpretations of Islam that sometimes make their way into lawmaking. Euis Sunarti, who advocates for conservative family values, even pressed for the new draft to go further and outlaw all expressions of homosexuality, not just sex. Rights groups welcomed the delay and urged the president to block the bill altogether. An online petition started by gender rights activist Tunggal Pawestri calling for the president to veto the "absurd" bill had been signed by over 560,000 people as of Friday evening. Amnesty International Indonesia campaigner Puri Kencana Putri urged the president to review articles that call for the death penalty for treason and to review the law on blasphemy while demanding greater public participation during the deliberation. Arus Pelangi, an advocacy group for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer people, said it would fight to strike down articles containing "the potential for gross human rights violation, especially against the LGBT community", the head of its legal division Riska Carolina said. "Regardless of the morality of the majority, the minority has the right to live as citizens in this country and we just want to live quietly," she said.

Delay in bill criminalising sex outside marriage divides Indonesians

September 2018 was a watershed moment for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer or questioning (LGBTQ) community. &nbsp;That month, Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) was revoked, thereby decriminalising homosexuality. This development has been long in the making and every member of the LGBTQ community should take pride that their right to have same-sex relationships cannot be infringed upon.&nbsp;

While the revocation was a progressive step, the societal outlook cannot be changed overnight simply with the annulment of a century-old law.&nbsp;

The subject of LGBTQ rights still stirs up discomforting emotions in a large number of people. Such unease concerning LGBTQ members is plainly visible in the Indian corporate space.&nbsp;

Indian companies and organisations’ openness in relation to the LGBTQ community falls along a continuum. Some organisations are willing to create employee groups for members of the LGBTQ community and formulate LGBTQ-friendly policies such as facilitating surrogacy and adoption. Some companies also have policies such as medical coverage for sex change of an LGBTQ member.&nbsp;

On the other side of the continuum are companies that proclaim they’re not against LGBTQ members or their inclusion into society, but nonetheless are unwilling to openly declare that they want to facilitate inclusion of such members.&nbsp;

The question that arises is this: why is there any discomfort at all regarding the LGBTQ community? The obvious answer is that since childhood, children are taught to mock lesbians, gays, bisexuals, transsexuals and queers.&nbsp;

Social conditioning runs deep and those inculcated since childhood remains rooted when children grow into adults. Children are taught to refer to a heterosexual man as straight, yet what is it that makes a heterosexual man straight and a homosexual man not straight or perhaps crooked? Why is the quality of being straight bestowed only on heterosexual men and not on homosexual men? Social conditioning dictates who is straight and who isn’t. &nbsp;

Social conditioning is why it’s unremarkable when a man hits on a woman while heterosexual men display extreme discomfort when a man hits on them.&nbsp;

Unlike laws that can be changed overnight, long-ingrained social conditioning cannot be changed as easily. Hence much needs to be done to address the rights of LGBTQ members and to integrate them into society. It begins by reengineering society.&nbsp;

The LGBTQ community has existed on the margins of society for centuries, not just because society has been unwilling to accept them, but also because their own family members have not done so. Creating an inclusive society in which LGBTQ members play a full role, starts with giving members of the community the courage to come out.&nbsp;

Inclusion of LGBTQ members into society can be facilitated by organisations, who reflect societal values. All stereotypes, norms and biases of a society shape and therefore are reflected in organisations, which conversely, can help reshape stereotypes, norms and biases and in turn reshape society.&nbsp;

This happens when they implement new policies, practices and encourage conversations that challenge stereotypes. Doing this changes the mindset of those working in organisations and therefore changes mindsets in society. Inclusion of LGBTQ members isn’t just about creating a more harmonious society; a recent US Chamber of Commerce report revealed that their inclusion benefits a company’s bottom line.&nbsp;

The report indicates that companies that adopt LGBTQ- inclusive policies, improve their financial standing and perform better than peer organisations that don’t. &nbsp;

The report cited a 2017 study that showed 80% of adult employees considered inclusiveness an important criterion when choosing an employer. When given the option to work with an employer that had inclusive policies and one who did not, employees would join the former.&nbsp;

About 72% of respondents in the study said they would leave their organisation for one that was more inclusive. Clearly, talented people want to work in inclusive companies.&nbsp;

However, despite greater inclusiveness of LGBTQ members, half of them continue to remain closeted even in the United States. &nbsp;

Thankfully, some organisations have created groups in which members of the LGBTQ community speak about their expectations, as well as their pleasant and unpleasant experiences.

Firms must open discussions around adoption policies for same-sex couples, insurance for same-sex couples, how to make complete healthcare available to LGBTQ members and finally discussions around how to cultivate tolerance and respect for these members.&nbsp;

Often, intolerance stems from a lack of awareness. For instance, heterosexual men or women may fear to engage a gay or lesbian out of fear of being hit on.&nbsp;

Among company leaders, there is a need for discussing supportive infrastructure, like washrooms for example, for the third gender. Transsexuals and queers have such needs and it is an organisation’s responsibility to fulfil them.&nbsp;

In India, the introduction of the Transgender Persons Protection of Rights Bill in 2016, was a step in the right direction. It prohibits discrimination against a transgender in areas like education, healthcare and employment.&nbsp;

As per the Bill, forcing a transgender person to beg, denying them access to a public place, or physically or sexually abusing them will lead to imprisonment up to two years and a fine.&nbsp;

The LGBTQ community’s inclusion into every facet of society is a journey, which cannot be considered complete with simply revoking Section 377. Society and organisations must be encouraged to take concrete steps to ensure the journey continues smoothly and there is an urgent need to move beyond lip service to reshaping societal outlook. 
 
(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-organisations-take-the-lead-2790520">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;

September 2018 was a watershed moment for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer or questioning (LGBTQ) community. That month, Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) was revoked, thereby decriminalising homosexuality.

September 2018 was a watershed moment for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer or questioning (LGBTQ) community. That month, Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) was revoked, thereby decriminalising homosexuality. This development has been long in the making and every member of the LGBTQ community should take pride that their right to have same-sex relationships cannot be infringed upon. While the revocation was a progressive step, the societal outlook cannot be changed overnight simply with the annulment of a century-old law. The subject of LGBTQ rights still stirs up discomforting emotions in a large number of people. Such unease concerning LGBTQ members is plainly visible in the Indian corporate space. Indian companies and organisations’ openness in relation to the LGBTQ community falls along a continuum. Some organisations are willing to create employee groups for members of the LGBTQ community and formulate LGBTQ-friendly policies such as facilitating surrogacy and adoption. Some companies also have policies such as medical coverage for sex change of an LGBTQ member. On the other side of the continuum are companies that proclaim they’re not against LGBTQ members or their inclusion into society, but nonetheless are unwilling to openly declare that they want to facilitate inclusion of such members. The question that arises is this: why is there any discomfort at all regarding the LGBTQ community? The obvious answer is that since childhood, children are taught to mock lesbians, gays, bisexuals, transsexuals and queers. Social conditioning runs deep and those inculcated since childhood remains rooted when children grow into adults. Children are taught to refer to a heterosexual man as straight, yet what is it that makes a heterosexual man straight and a homosexual man not straight or perhaps crooked? Why is the quality of being straight bestowed only on heterosexual men and not on homosexual men? Social conditioning dictates who is straight and who isn’t. Social conditioning is why it’s unremarkable when a man hits on a woman while heterosexual men display extreme discomfort when a man hits on them. Unlike laws that can be changed overnight, long-ingrained social conditioning cannot be changed as easily. Hence much needs to be done to address the rights of LGBTQ members and to integrate them into society. It begins by reengineering society. The LGBTQ community has existed on the margins of society for centuries, not just because society has been unwilling to accept them, but also because their own family members have not done so. Creating an inclusive society in which LGBTQ members play a full role, starts with giving members of the community the courage to come out. Inclusion of LGBTQ members into society can be facilitated by organisations, who reflect societal values. All stereotypes, norms and biases of a society shape and therefore are reflected in organisations, which conversely, can help reshape stereotypes, norms and biases and in turn reshape society. This happens when they implement new policies, practices and encourage conversations that challenge stereotypes. Doing this changes the mindset of those working in organisations and therefore changes mindsets in society. Inclusion of LGBTQ members isn’t just about creating a more harmonious society; a recent US Chamber of Commerce report revealed that their inclusion benefits a company’s bottom line. The report indicates that companies that adopt LGBTQ- inclusive policies, improve their financial standing and perform better than peer organisations that don’t. The report cited a 2017 study that showed 80% of adult employees considered inclusiveness an important criterion when choosing an employer. When given the option to work with an employer that had inclusive policies and one who did not, employees would join the former. About 72% of respondents in the study said they would leave their organisation for one that was more inclusive. Clearly, talented people want to work in inclusive companies. However, despite greater inclusiveness of LGBTQ members, half of them continue to remain closeted even in the United States. Thankfully, some organisations have created groups in which members of the LGBTQ community speak about their expectations, as well as their pleasant and unpleasant experiences. Firms must open discussions around adoption policies for same-sex couples, insurance for same-sex couples, how to make complete healthcare available to LGBTQ members and finally discussions around how to cultivate tolerance and respect for these members. Often, intolerance stems from a lack of awareness. For instance, heterosexual men or women may fear to engage a gay or lesbian out of fear of being hit on. Among company leaders, there is a need for discussing supportive infrastructure, like washrooms for example, for the third gender. Transsexuals and queers have such needs and it is an organisation’s responsibility to fulfil them. In India, the introduction of the Transgender Persons Protection of Rights Bill in 2016, was a step in the right direction. It prohibits discrimination against a transgender in areas like education, healthcare and employment. As per the Bill, forcing a transgender person to beg, denying them access to a public place, or physically or sexually abusing them will lead to imprisonment up to two years and a fine. The LGBTQ community’s inclusion into every facet of society is a journey, which cannot be considered complete with simply revoking Section 377. Society and organisations must be encouraged to take concrete steps to ensure the journey continues smoothly and there is an urgent need to move beyond lip service to reshaping societal outlook. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Section 377 verdict: One year on, much more societal work still needs to be done

In a fresh legal twist, a Brazilian court has allowed the evangelical mayor of Rio de Janeiro to confiscate books with LGBT content he considers "inappropriate" for minors, sparking fears over censorship and discrimination.

Saturday's ruling suspends an interim injunction which had blocked the mayor from trying to ban a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/marvel-superheroes-power-up-legos-sales-247437">Marvel comic book</a> on sale at the Rio book fair which shows a kiss between two male superheroes.

Ultra-conservative mayor Marcelo Crivella had ordered the book removed from sale because of its "sexual content for minors."

Crivella -- a former bishop in the giant Universal Church of the Kingdom of God -- was elected Rio's mayor in 2016, promising to bring law and order to a city beset by crime.

The drawing that sparked the mayor's ire showed the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/star-studded-marvel-films-storm-comic-con-as-endgame-claims-record-237408">Marvel superhero</a> characters Wiccan and Hulkling exchanging a kiss, fully dressed.

Crivella's move backfired as copies of "Young Avengers: the Children's Crusade" quickly sold out after he demanded it be withdrawn from the book fair, organizers told AFP.

Popular Brazilian YouTuber Felipe Neto, who has more than 34 million subscribers to his channel, also bought 14,000 books on LGBT themes and distributed them free at the fair in protest.

The image of the Marvel comic kiss was also on show Saturday at news kiosks across the country, printed on the cover of the Folha de S. Paulo, Brazil's largest national newspaper.

'Discriminatory ruling'

But on Saturday afternoon, the president of the Rio de Janeiro Court of Justice suspended the injunction, endorsing the actions of the mayor's office.

For Judge Claudio de Mello Tavares, it was not expected that a superhero comic would address issues of sexuality so it should come with a content warning.

"Because it is a superhero work -- attractive to a juvenile audience -- which addresses the issue of homosexuality it is necessary that parents be duly alerted" before deciding "whether or not the text fits their vision of how to educate their children," Tavares argued in his ruling.

The organizers of the book fair, which ends Sunday, said they would appeal to the Supreme Court to reverse the ruling.

Publishers and writers accuse the mayor of wanting to censor content.

The mayor's actions, and the judicial decision, may violate freedom of expression and discriminate based on sexual orientation, said constitutional law specialist Michael Mohallem, of the Getulio Vargas Foundation.

"Since the decision seems to be specifically aimed at prohibiting the circulation of magazines that show gay kisses (rather than any other), my interpretation is that it is motivated by discrimination, both by the mayor and the judge," Mohallem said.

Brazil's Supreme Court in June voted to criminalize homophobia, classifying it as a crime similar to racism.

It was an important step for sexual minorities in one of the most dangerous countries for LGBT people in the world but was criticized by far-right President Jair Bolsonaro, who has a history of homophobic remarks.

Brazil had already legalized same-sex marriage.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

In a fresh legal twist, a Brazilian court has allowed the evangelical mayor of Rio de Janeiro to confiscate books with LGBT content he considers "inappropriate" for minors, sparking fears over censorship and discrimination.

In a fresh legal twist, a Brazilian court has allowed the evangelical mayor of Rio de Janeiro to confiscate books with LGBT content he considers "inappropriate" for minors, sparking fears over censorship and discrimination. Saturday's ruling suspends an interim injunction which had blocked the mayor from trying to ban a Marvel comic book on sale at the Rio book fair which shows a kiss between two male superheroes. Ultra-conservative mayor Marcelo Crivella had ordered the book removed from sale because of its "sexual content for minors." Crivella -- a former bishop in the giant Universal Church of the Kingdom of God -- was elected Rio's mayor in 2016, promising to bring law and order to a city beset by crime. The drawing that sparked the mayor's ire showed the Marvel superhero characters Wiccan and Hulkling exchanging a kiss, fully dressed. Crivella's move backfired as copies of "Young Avengers: the Children's Crusade" quickly sold out after he demanded it be withdrawn from the book fair, organizers told AFP. Popular Brazilian YouTuber Felipe Neto, who has more than 34 million subscribers to his channel, also bought 14,000 books on LGBT themes and distributed them free at the fair in protest. The image of the Marvel comic kiss was also on show Saturday at news kiosks across the country, printed on the cover of the Folha de S. Paulo, Brazil's largest national newspaper. 'Discriminatory ruling' But on Saturday afternoon, the president of the Rio de Janeiro Court of Justice suspended the injunction, endorsing the actions of the mayor's office. For Judge Claudio de Mello Tavares, it was not expected that a superhero comic would address issues of sexuality so it should come with a content warning. "Because it is a superhero work -- attractive to a juvenile audience -- which addresses the issue of homosexuality it is necessary that parents be duly alerted" before deciding "whether or not the text fits their vision of how to educate their children," Tavares argued in his ruling. The organizers of the book fair, which ends Sunday, said they would appeal to the Supreme Court to reverse the ruling. Publishers and writers accuse the mayor of wanting to censor content. The mayor's actions, and the judicial decision, may violate freedom of expression and discriminate based on sexual orientation, said constitutional law specialist Michael Mohallem, of the Getulio Vargas Foundation. "Since the decision seems to be specifically aimed at prohibiting the circulation of magazines that show gay kisses (rather than any other), my interpretation is that it is motivated by discrimination, both by the mayor and the judge," Mohallem said. Brazil's Supreme Court in June voted to criminalize homophobia, classifying it as a crime similar to racism. It was an important step for sexual minorities in one of the most dangerous countries for LGBT people in the world but was criticized by far-right President Jair Bolsonaro, who has a history of homophobic remarks. Brazil had already legalized same-sex marriage.

Legal battle over Marvel comic gay kiss in Brazil

Poland is under siege from a "rainbow plague" of gay rights campaigners, the archbishop of Krakow, Marek Jedraszewski said on Thursday (August 1) comparing it to Poland's former Communist rulers.

Polish bishop likens LGBT rainbow flag to "communist plague"

Limiting marriage to a relationship between a man and a woman will remain China's legal position, a parliament spokesman said on Wednesday, ruling out following neighbouring Taiwan in allowing same-sex marriage, despite pressure from activists.

Taiwan's parliament passed a bill in May that endorsed same-sex marriage, after years of heated debate over marriage equality that has divided the self-ruled and democratic island.

China, which claims Taiwan as its territory, has a thriving gay scene in major cities, but there has been little sign the ruling Communist Party will legalise same-sex marriage.

Asked at a news briefing whether China would legalise same-sex marriage, Zang Tiewei, spokesman for parliament's legal affairs commission, said Chinese law only allowed for marriage between one man and one woman.

"This rule suits our country's national condition and historical and cultural traditions," he said. "As far as I know, the vast majority of countries in the world do not recognise the legalisation of same-sex marriage."

Individual Chinese legislators have occasionally in the past few years proposed measures during the annual meeting of the largely rubber-stamp parliament every March to legalise same-sex marriage, without success.

There are no laws against same-sex relations in China and despite growing awareness of LGBT issues, the community has been the target of censors in recent months, fuelling fears of growing intolerance.

Activists have asked people in China to propose amendments to a draft civil code en masse, though they have admitted they see little chance of success. The parts of the code relating to marriage are expected to pass into law next year.

The code makes changes on issues such as sexual harassment, divorce and family planning, but does not further the rights of the LGBT community, drafts published by parliament show.

Zang said the marriage section of the draft civil code maintains the bond as being between a man and a woman.

Prominent gay rights activist Sun Wenlin said he was disappointed in the comments, but not surprised.

"I feel that my partner and I are sacrificing our happiness for the country's legal system," said Sun, who three years ago had his application to legally marry his partner rejected by a Chinese court.

"They are undermining our life plan of choosing to marry the person we love."

He added, "I feel I am being excluded, and am absolutely not a consideration for policymakers."

Another activist, who asked not to be named, told Reuters there were cases in China of same-sex partners who had lost their homes after one of them died, as they lacked the legal protection of marriage.

"We hope these tragedies don't keen happening," the activist said.

Limiting marriage to a relationship between a man and a woman will remain China's legal position, a parliament spokesman said on Wednesday, ruling out following neighbouring Taiwan in allowing same-sex marriage, despite pressure from activists.

Limiting marriage to a relationship between a man and a woman will remain China's legal position, a parliament spokesman said on Wednesday, ruling out following neighbouring Taiwan in allowing same-sex marriage, despite pressure from activists. Taiwan's parliament passed a bill in May that endorsed same-sex marriage, after years of heated debate over marriage equality that has divided the self-ruled and democratic island. China, which claims Taiwan as its territory, has a thriving gay scene in major cities, but there has been little sign the ruling Communist Party will legalise same-sex marriage. Asked at a news briefing whether China would legalise same-sex marriage, Zang Tiewei, spokesman for parliament's legal affairs commission, said Chinese law only allowed for marriage between one man and one woman. "This rule suits our country's national condition and historical and cultural traditions," he said. "As far as I know, the vast majority of countries in the world do not recognise the legalisation of same-sex marriage." Individual Chinese legislators have occasionally in the past few years proposed measures during the annual meeting of the largely rubber-stamp parliament every March to legalise same-sex marriage, without success. There are no laws against same-sex relations in China and despite growing awareness of LGBT issues, the community has been the target of censors in recent months, fuelling fears of growing intolerance. Activists have asked people in China to propose amendments to a draft civil code en masse, though they have admitted they see little chance of success. The parts of the code relating to marriage are expected to pass into law next year. The code makes changes on issues such as sexual harassment, divorce and family planning, but does not further the rights of the LGBT community, drafts published by parliament show. Zang said the marriage section of the draft civil code maintains the bond as being between a man and a woman. Prominent gay rights activist Sun Wenlin said he was disappointed in the comments, but not surprised. "I feel that my partner and I are sacrificing our happiness for the country's legal system," said Sun, who three years ago had his application to legally marry his partner rejected by a Chinese court. "They are undermining our life plan of choosing to marry the person we love." He added, "I feel I am being excluded, and am absolutely not a consideration for policymakers." Another activist, who asked not to be named, told Reuters there were cases in China of same-sex partners who had lost their homes after one of them died, as they lacked the legal protection of marriage. "We hope these tragedies don't keen happening," the activist said.

China's Parliament rules out allowing same-sex marriage

With summer holidays beginning in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/glacier-the-size-of-britain-could-disappear-and-drown-low-lying-coasts-study-234708">Britain</a> this week, officials are redoubling efforts at the border to stop young people from being dragged into forced marriages.

At a Heathrow Airport arrivals gate, an AFP reporter watched as officials from a special task force comprising police, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-us-agents-prepare-to-arrest-thousands-migrants-live-in-fear-235693">immigration agents</a> and charity workers intercepted a family disembarking a flight from Bangalore, India.

A young woman in the group raised red flags because of bruises on her arm, while a 13-year-old girl appeared especially timid both indicators of potential coercion.

After speaking to family members individually, officials were satisfied that the family was traveling to Britain for a funeral and the bruising was due to a traffic accident.

But the officials also learned that the young woman's parents had recently found her a fiance in their home state of Kerala and that he, too, may travel to Britain.

Trained task force officers took the woman aside to brief her on her rights and to press upon her that forced marriage is illegal in Britain.

"She's (now) aware of consent, and that she can withdraw her consent at any time," Detective Sergeant Kate Bridger of the Metropolitan Police told her team after they questioned 72 of the 250 people on the Air India flight.

'No winners here'&nbsp;

Britain outlawed forced marriage in 2014, with a maximum jail term of seven years for offenders.

Figures from the interior ministry's forced marriage unit show 1,764 reported cases in 2018 &nbsp;a 47 percent increase from the year before.

The reported cases are thought to be the tip of the iceberg.

Most cases involve Britons being married against their will overseas, mainly in Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan.

So the task force targeted passengers on flights to and from the Indian sub-continent as well as Middle East hub airports.

"It's not just a South Asian problem... it cuts across lots of different cultures and communities too," task force member detective sergeant Trudy Gittins told AFP.

Men were also affected, she said, as well as members of the LGBT community with cases of gay men forced to marry members of the opposite sex by their conservative families.

Cases in Britain have ranged from a two-year-old promised in a religious ceremony to marry into another family, to an 80-year-old Alzheimer's sufferer whose carer forced him into marriage to inherit his estate.

A third of the victims are younger than 18, and three-quarters are girls or women.

West Midlands Police last year secured the first conviction in England for forced marriage, with a woman jailed after her 13-year-old daughter was raped by her "fiance", a relative in Pakistan.

"There are no winners here this was her mum," said Gittins.

Senior officers said the emphasis of this week's operation was on prevention rather than prosecution.

"Our focus is not to criminalize parents or members of the extended family," said the Met's acting chief superintendent Parm Sandhu.&nbsp;

"Our focus is to safeguard young people."

Like being 'buried alive'

The task force is targeting Britain's busiest airports, stations and ports as the school holiday season gets underway a time when cases typically spike.

As team members gathered in a windowless room in the bowels of Heathrow, Gittins told them that victims have described being forced into marriage as being "buried alive".

"I want you to feel that statement today," she urged her colleagues.&nbsp;

Some of those greeted by the task force on arrival at Heathrow welcomed the initiative.

"We were very surprised, it's not something we've come across before," said Karan Shah, 31, with his wife on a three-week visit to Britain.

The couple had an arranged marriage to which both had agreed, he said, adding that in many parts of rural India forced marriages do still occur.

"It's very unfortunate so I give this a big thumbs up," said Shah.

With summer holidays beginning in Britain this week, officials are redoubling efforts at the border to stop young people from being dragged into forced marriages.

With summer holidays beginning in Britain this week, officials are redoubling efforts at the border to stop young people from being dragged into forced marriages. At a Heathrow Airport arrivals gate, an AFP reporter watched as officials from a special task force comprising police, immigration agents and charity workers intercepted a family disembarking a flight from Bangalore, India. A young woman in the group raised red flags because of bruises on her arm, while a 13-year-old girl appeared especially timid both indicators of potential coercion. After speaking to family members individually, officials were satisfied that the family was traveling to Britain for a funeral and the bruising was due to a traffic accident. But the officials also learned that the young woman's parents had recently found her a fiance in their home state of Kerala and that he, too, may travel to Britain. Trained task force officers took the woman aside to brief her on her rights and to press upon her that forced marriage is illegal in Britain. "She's (now) aware of consent, and that she can withdraw her consent at any time," Detective Sergeant Kate Bridger of the Metropolitan Police told her team after they questioned 72 of the 250 people on the Air India flight. 'No winners here' Britain outlawed forced marriage in 2014, with a maximum jail term of seven years for offenders. Figures from the interior ministry's forced marriage unit show 1,764 reported cases in 2018 a 47 percent increase from the year before. The reported cases are thought to be the tip of the iceberg. Most cases involve Britons being married against their will overseas, mainly in Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan. So the task force targeted passengers on flights to and from the Indian sub-continent as well as Middle East hub airports. "It's not just a South Asian problem... it cuts across lots of different cultures and communities too," task force member detective sergeant Trudy Gittins told AFP. Men were also affected, she said, as well as members of the LGBT community with cases of gay men forced to marry members of the opposite sex by their conservative families. Cases in Britain have ranged from a two-year-old promised in a religious ceremony to marry into another family, to an 80-year-old Alzheimer's sufferer whose carer forced him into marriage to inherit his estate. A third of the victims are younger than 18, and three-quarters are girls or women. West Midlands Police last year secured the first conviction in England for forced marriage, with a woman jailed after her 13-year-old daughter was raped by her "fiance", a relative in Pakistan. "There are no winners here this was her mum," said Gittins. Senior officers said the emphasis of this week's operation was on prevention rather than prosecution. "Our focus is not to criminalize parents or members of the extended family," said the Met's acting chief superintendent Parm Sandhu. "Our focus is to safeguard young people." Like being 'buried alive' The task force is targeting Britain's busiest airports, stations and ports as the school holiday season gets underway a time when cases typically spike. As team members gathered in a windowless room in the bowels of Heathrow, Gittins told them that victims have described being forced into marriage as being "buried alive". "I want you to feel that statement today," she urged her colleagues. Some of those greeted by the task force on arrival at Heathrow welcomed the initiative. "We were very surprised, it's not something we've come across before," said Karan Shah, 31, with his wife on a three-week visit to Britain. The couple had an arranged marriage to which both had agreed, he said, adding that in many parts of rural India forced marriages do still occur. "It's very unfortunate so I give this a big thumbs up," said Shah.

As holidays begin, UK looks out for forced marriages

Turkish police on Sunday fired tear gas at gay rights groups and activists who defied authorities to march for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/police-tear-gas-gay-pride-paraders-in-istanbul-231958">Istanbul pride parade</a>, banned for the fifth year in a row.

Thousands of people rallied close to the popular Istiklal Avenue and Taksim Square where organisers originally planned to hold the parade, an AFP correspondent said.

The parade was banned by the Istanbul governor's office but the police allowed people to gather in a side street nearby where a public statement was made by the organisers, Istanbul <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hundreds-of-thousands-march-across-europe-for-gay-pride-233705">LGBT+ Pride Week</a>.

Riot police then fired tear gas to disperse the crowd, the correspondent said.

There was a heavy police presence near Taksim Square, including police water cannon vehicles. Other streets were closed off by officers.

There were chants of "shoulder to shoulder against fascism" and "we will not be quiet" among the crowd filled with rainbow flags and umbrellas.

Amnesty International on Friday dismissed authorities' claims of security or public order concerns after the ban was issued.

"It is... a naked attempt to erase the public collective presence of a group which, in the words of the governorate, is deemed to be 'societally objectionable'," the human rights group said in a statement.

Amnesty said the governors of the Aegean region of Izmir and the southern province of Antalya also banned all pride events earlier this month.

Istanbul pride had taken place every year since 2003.&nbsp;

The last parade which took place without a ban in 2014 drew tens of thousands of participants in one of the biggest LGBTI events in the majority Muslim region.

Although homosexuality has been legal throughout the period of the modern Turkish republic, LGBTI individuals point to regular harassment and abuse.

But many opposition-run district municipalities including Kadikoy in Istanbul and Datca in southwestern Turkey tweeted on Saturday in support of LGBTI rights.

Turkish police on Sunday fired tear gas at gay rights groups and activists who defied authorities to march for the Istanbul pride parade, banned for the fifth year in a row.

Turkish police on Sunday fired tear gas at gay rights groups and activists who defied authorities to march for the Istanbul pride parade, banned for the fifth year in a row. Thousands of people rallied close to the popular Istiklal Avenue and Taksim Square where organisers originally planned to hold the parade, an AFP correspondent said. The parade was banned by the Istanbul governor's office but the police allowed people to gather in a side street nearby where a public statement was made by the organisers, Istanbul LGBT+ Pride Week. Riot police then fired tear gas to disperse the crowd, the correspondent said. There was a heavy police presence near Taksim Square, including police water cannon vehicles. Other streets were closed off by officers. There were chants of "shoulder to shoulder against fascism" and "we will not be quiet" among the crowd filled with rainbow flags and umbrellas. Amnesty International on Friday dismissed authorities' claims of security or public order concerns after the ban was issued. "It is... a naked attempt to erase the public collective presence of a group which, in the words of the governorate, is deemed to be 'societally objectionable'," the human rights group said in a statement. Amnesty said the governors of the Aegean region of Izmir and the southern province of Antalya also banned all pride events earlier this month. Istanbul pride had taken place every year since 2003. The last parade which took place without a ban in 2014 drew tens of thousands of participants in one of the biggest LGBTI events in the majority Muslim region. Although homosexuality has been legal throughout the period of the modern Turkish republic, LGBTI individuals point to regular harassment and abuse. But many opposition-run district municipalities including Kadikoy in Istanbul and Datca in southwestern Turkey tweeted on Saturday in support of LGBTI rights.

Police tear gas gay pride paraders in Istanbul

Turkish police on Sunday fired tear gas at gay rights groups and activists who defied authorities to march for the Istanbul pride parade, banned for the fifth year in a row.

Thousands of people rallied close to the popular Istiklal Avenue and Taksim Square where organizers originally planned to hold the parade, an AFP correspondent said.

The parade was banned by the Istanbul governor's office but the police allowed people to gather in a side street nearby where a public statement was made by the organizers, Istanbul <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/cuban-lgbt-activists-plan-alternate-parade-in-defiance-of-government-217929">LGBT+ Pride Week.</a>

Riot police then fired tear gas to disperse the crowd, the correspondent said.

There was a heavy police presence near Taksim Square, including police water cannon vehicles. Other streets were closed off by officers.

There were chants of "shoulder to shoulder against fascism" and "we will not be quiet" among the crowd filled with rainbow flags and umbrellas.

Amnesty International on Friday dismissed authorities' claims of security or public order concerns after the ban was issued.

"It is... a naked attempt to erase the public collective presence of a group which, in the words of the governorate, is deemed to be 'societally objectionable'," the human rights group said in a statement.

Amnesty said the governors of the Aegean region of Izmir and the southern province of Antalya also banned all pride events earlier this month.

Istanbul pride had taken place every year since 2003.&nbsp;

The last parade which took place without a ban in 2014 drew tens of thousands of participants in one of the biggest LGBTI events in the majority Muslim region.

Although homosexuality has been legal throughout the modern Turkish republic, LGBTI individuals point to regular harassment and abuse.

But many opposition-run district municipalities including Kadikoy in Istanbul and Datca in southwestern Turkey tweeted on Saturday in support of LGBTI rights.

Turkish police on Sunday fired tear gas at gay rights groups and activists who defied authorities to march for the Istanbul pride parade, banned for the fifth year in a row. Thousands of people rallied close to the popular Istiklal Avenue and Taksim Square where organizers originally planned to hold the parade, an AFP correspondent said. The parade was banned by the Istanbul governor's office but the police allowed people to gather in a side street nearby where a public statement was made by the organizers, Istanbul LGBT+ Pride Week. Riot police then fired tear gas to disperse the crowd, the correspondent said. There was a heavy police presence near Taksim Square, including police water cannon vehicles. Other streets were closed off by officers. There were chants of "shoulder to shoulder against fascism" and "we will not be quiet" among the crowd filled with rainbow flags and umbrellas. Amnesty International on Friday dismissed authorities' claims of security or public order concerns after the ban was issued. "It is... a naked attempt to erase the public collective presence of a group which, in the words of the governorate, is deemed to be 'societally objectionable'," the human rights group said in a statement. Amnesty said the governors of the Aegean region of Izmir and the southern province of Antalya also banned all pride events earlier this month. Istanbul pride had taken place every year since 2003. The last parade which took place without a ban in 2014 drew tens of thousands of participants in one of the biggest LGBTI events in the majority Muslim region. Although homosexuality has been legal throughout the modern Turkish republic, LGBTI individuals point to regular harassment and abuse. But many opposition-run district municipalities including Kadikoy in Istanbul and Datca in southwestern Turkey tweeted on Saturday in support of LGBTI rights.

Fearing persecution after being outed as gay, Adil fled Malawi.

Leaving behind his well-off Muslim family and four-year-old son, he headed for South Africa, where he became a sex worker to survive.

"The laws that we have in Malawi are incriminating. I wanted to get away from here. I had to take my chances," the 29-year-old told AFP. His full name is withheld for fear of homophobic retribution.

For two years Adil laboured as a male sex worker in the tough streets of downtown Johannesburg, eventually returning home.

His case highlights the problems in Malawi, a holdout in southern Africa where legal liberalisation for gays is otherwise gaining speed.

Botswana this week joined Angola, Mozambique, Seychelles and South Africa on the path towards decriminalising homosexuality, with a verdict by its High Court to scrap decades-old anti-gay laws.

These landmark cases "set an important framework... which will hopefully be emulated elsewhere in Africa," Anneke Meerkotter of the Southern Africa Litigation Centre (SALC) told AFP.

But "hopefully" is the keyword. Elsewhere on the continent, the picture is quite different.

Last month, Kenya's High Court upheld laws punishing "carnal knowledge... against the order of nature" by up to 14 years in jail. Chad and Uganda have also introduced or toughened legislation.

'Unnatural offence'

In Malawi, a conservative religious country, the situation seems particularly entrenched, say campaigners.

Its penal code expressly criminalises same-sex relations as an "unnatural offence", punishable by up to 14 years in prison.&nbsp;

Human Rights Watch (HRW) last October said Malawi's laws fuelled a climate of fear, arbitrary arrest, violence and discrimination against gays. Many young people, like Adil, are cast out of their families because of their sexual orientation.

Gay rights burst into the news in 2010 when a couple was jailed for gross indecency after holding the country's first same-sex public "wedding".

Then-president Bingu wa Mutharika said the pair had committed a crime against Malawi's culture, religion and laws. He later pardoned them on "humanitarian grounds" after a meeting with the UN secretary-general.

When Joyce Banda succeeded him as president in 2012, she promised widespread reforms to the colonial-era legislation and even announced a moratorium on arrests for those breaking laws that criminalise consensual same-sex conduct. &nbsp;

'Ignored'

But after Banda lost a 2014 bid to stay on as president, these gains were reversed, say campaigners.

Under Bingu wa's brother Peter Mutharika, who recently won his second presidential term in office, "this group of people have just tended to be ignored," gender activist Beatrice Mateyo said.

Activists have been waiting since 2013 for the courts to set a date for a hearing to repeal the anti-gay laws.

"Malawi has several court cases that are lying in the courts and we hope the case scenario of Botswana is also going to inform the legal processes here in Malawi," Gift Trapence, head of Malawian rights group Centre for the Development of People (CEDEP) told AFP.

Mateyo believes religious conservatism has played a core part in perpetuating stereotypes and anti-gay hostility.

Most of the 18 million people in Malawi are Christian or Muslim, whose religious education often describes homosexuality as taboo or a sin.

In 2016, about 3,000 Christians marched through Blantyre and Lilongwe, carrying signs saying "Homosexuality is abomination".&nbsp;

"We are seen as a God-fearing nation, so society tends to skew towards religion where you are seen as a sinner... And if you are of different sexuality then you are perceived as a sinner," Mateyo said.

People who are not heterosexual, "will rather remain in the closet -- hidden."

"For the very few people that are open, life is very difficult because people tend to label them."

'Just want to be safe'

Twenty-eight-year-old Sarah, a lesbian who is also intersex, meaning there is no self-assignment to gender, said everyday tasks in Malawi were like walking on eggshells.

"I'm scared of being attacked, even in public spaces," said Sarah. "You go to the bank, they look at your ID... you have to prove that you're this particular sex that was assigned to you at birth."

Sarah has a three-month-old relationship with a local woman but said, "I cannot take her to the local market to buy vegetables because that's going to start another issue."

CEDP, working with activists, set up four drop-in centres in Lilongwe, Blantyre, Mzuzu and Mangochi in 2016.

Equipped with a recreation room, gym, large kitchen, medical centre and 24-hour security, the centres support around 2,000 people.

"When we are here, we know each other," a 27-year-old carpenter who declined to be named told AFP at the centre, his partner seated next to him.

Once a week, he walks 30 kilometres (20 miles) to the Lilongwe drop-in house to collect condoms, thus escaping condemnation by people in his neighbourhood.

Adil returned to Malawi after contracting HIV in South Africa. He was unable to stay there because as an illegal, he had no access to treatment.

The centre has been a haven of hope in Malawi, he said.

"In this space you can wear whatever you want, you can feel any way you want because this is the only safe space that you have."&nbsp;

"But out there it is hard."

Fearing persecution after being outed as gay, Adil fled Malawi. Leaving behind his well-off Muslim family and four-year-old son, he headed for South Africa, where he became a sex worker to survive.

Fearing persecution after being outed as gay, Adil fled Malawi. Leaving behind his well-off Muslim family and four-year-old son, he headed for South Africa, where he became a sex worker to survive. "The laws that we have in Malawi are incriminating. I wanted to get away from here. I had to take my chances," the 29-year-old told AFP. His full name is withheld for fear of homophobic retribution. For two years Adil laboured as a male sex worker in the tough streets of downtown Johannesburg, eventually returning home. His case highlights the problems in Malawi, a holdout in southern Africa where legal liberalisation for gays is otherwise gaining speed. Botswana this week joined Angola, Mozambique, Seychelles and South Africa on the path towards decriminalising homosexuality, with a verdict by its High Court to scrap decades-old anti-gay laws. These landmark cases "set an important framework... which will hopefully be emulated elsewhere in Africa," Anneke Meerkotter of the Southern Africa Litigation Centre (SALC) told AFP. But "hopefully" is the keyword. Elsewhere on the continent, the picture is quite different. Last month, Kenya's High Court upheld laws punishing "carnal knowledge... against the order of nature" by up to 14 years in jail. Chad and Uganda have also introduced or toughened legislation. 'Unnatural offence' In Malawi, a conservative religious country, the situation seems particularly entrenched, say campaigners. Its penal code expressly criminalises same-sex relations as an "unnatural offence", punishable by up to 14 years in prison. Human Rights Watch (HRW) last October said Malawi's laws fuelled a climate of fear, arbitrary arrest, violence and discrimination against gays. Many young people, like Adil, are cast out of their families because of their sexual orientation. Gay rights burst into the news in 2010 when a couple was jailed for gross indecency after holding the country's first same-sex public "wedding". Then-president Bingu wa Mutharika said the pair had committed a crime against Malawi's culture, religion and laws. He later pardoned them on "humanitarian grounds" after a meeting with the UN secretary-general. When Joyce Banda succeeded him as president in 2012, she promised widespread reforms to the colonial-era legislation and even announced a moratorium on arrests for those breaking laws that criminalise consensual same-sex conduct. 'Ignored' But after Banda lost a 2014 bid to stay on as president, these gains were reversed, say campaigners. Under Bingu wa's brother Peter Mutharika, who recently won his second presidential term in office, "this group of people have just tended to be ignored," gender activist Beatrice Mateyo said. Activists have been waiting since 2013 for the courts to set a date for a hearing to repeal the anti-gay laws. "Malawi has several court cases that are lying in the courts and we hope the case scenario of Botswana is also going to inform the legal processes here in Malawi," Gift Trapence, head of Malawian rights group Centre for the Development of People (CEDEP) told AFP. Mateyo believes religious conservatism has played a core part in perpetuating stereotypes and anti-gay hostility. Most of the 18 million people in Malawi are Christian or Muslim, whose religious education often describes homosexuality as taboo or a sin. In 2016, about 3,000 Christians marched through Blantyre and Lilongwe, carrying signs saying "Homosexuality is abomination". "We are seen as a God-fearing nation, so society tends to skew towards religion where you are seen as a sinner... And if you are of different sexuality then you are perceived as a sinner," Mateyo said. People who are not heterosexual, "will rather remain in the closet -- hidden." "For the very few people that are open, life is very difficult because people tend to label them." 'Just want to be safe' Twenty-eight-year-old Sarah, a lesbian who is also intersex, meaning there is no self-assignment to gender, said everyday tasks in Malawi were like walking on eggshells. "I'm scared of being attacked, even in public spaces," said Sarah. "You go to the bank, they look at your ID... you have to prove that you're this particular sex that was assigned to you at birth." Sarah has a three-month-old relationship with a local woman but said, "I cannot take her to the local market to buy vegetables because that's going to start another issue." CEDP, working with activists, set up four drop-in centres in Lilongwe, Blantyre, Mzuzu and Mangochi in 2016. Equipped with a recreation room, gym, large kitchen, medical centre and 24-hour security, the centres support around 2,000 people. "When we are here, we know each other," a 27-year-old carpenter who declined to be named told AFP at the centre, his partner seated next to him. Once a week, he walks 30 kilometres (20 miles) to the Lilongwe drop-in house to collect condoms, thus escaping condemnation by people in his neighbourhood. Adil returned to Malawi after contracting HIV in South Africa. He was unable to stay there because as an illegal, he had no access to treatment. The centre has been a haven of hope in Malawi, he said. "In this space you can wear whatever you want, you can feel any way you want because this is the only safe space that you have." "But out there it is hard."

Fear and stigma mark life for gays in conservative Malawi

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