UN Leader Pushes Gay Rights in Africa

"Events have proved that repression is a dead end. Police power is no match for people power seeking dignity and justice. The women and men protesting in streets and public squares across the region are both an inspiration and a reminder; a reminder that leaders must listen to their people, that all of us must do more. Yes, trade and investment are crucial for development. But Africa’s future also depends on investments in civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights is a promise to all people in all places at all times. Let me mention one form of discrimination that has been ignored or even sanctioned by many States for far too long - discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity. This has prompted some Governments to treat people as second-class citizens, or even criminals. Confronting this discrimination is a challenge. But we must live up to the ideals of the Universal Declaration." United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon’s remarks to the African Union Summit in Addis Ababa, January29, 2012.