As United Nations Free & Equal Campaign Launches in Cape town, Secretary-General

Says Unprecedented Initiative Aims to Raise Awareness of Homophobic Violence

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

Today in Cape Town, South Africa, High Commissioner for Human Rights Navi Pillay joined Archbishop Desmond Tutu and other officials to launch the United Nations Free & Equal Campaign.  This unprecedented global public information initiative aims to raise awareness of homophobic violence and discrimination, and to promote greater respect for the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people everywhere.

The Secretary-General has consistently called on world leaders to address violence against lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender members of our human family.  The Secretary-General commends the campaign’s core messages:  human rights are universal and we can change attitudes for the better.  He is personally committed to championing this cause.

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For information media • not an official record