ILGA ILGA 98 Manifesto
Celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

On the ocassion of the 50th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, ILGA expresses both its satisfaction for the progress made in GLBT rights in the last years and also its concern for discrimination on grounds of sexual orientation which still exist in many countries throughout the world.

We summon our members to circulate and subscribe the manifesto hereby enclosed. You are also welcome to publish it in whatever media you might find appropriate to use. This is a message to all NGOs and institutions of the world for endorsement.

Jordi Petit / Jennifer Wilson
ILGA Secretaries General

Gay and lesbian rights are human rights.
The individuals and organizations subscribing to this Manifesto, drafted by the International Lesbian and Gay Association, want to state to the peoples of the world and their governments:

    Mankind has been able to abolish slavery and establish certain basic rights of women in almost all parts of the world. We have developed democratic institutions and civil societies. Respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms is a condition for successful social and political life in all societies. We must recognize equality and respect diversity.

    On the 50th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, we bear witness to the strengthening concern of peoples and societies for human rights. A fundamental part of human rights in our time is the recognition of the right of individuals to develop their personalities, identities and sexuality, free from coercion or discrimination. We condemn the discrimination and oppression that continues in many States, including criminal sanctions and even the death penalty.

    In solidarity with ILGA, we demand full equality before the law for gay men, lesbians, bisexuals and transgendered persons. We demand the end of criminal penalties. We seek laws prohibiting discrimination. We demand the full and equal recognition of relationships. We look forward to the inclusion of equality rights, irrespective of sexual orientation, in national laws and international human rights instruments. Together we can all make a better life for each other and for future generations.

Gay and lesbian rights are human rights.

ILGA 98
20th Anniversary

If you wish to subscribe to the ILGA Manifesto on Human Rights, please print and complete the form and send it by postal mail or by fax to our offices in Brussels before May 1 1998.