Category - human rights

Williams under pressure as Christians condemn Ugandan anti-gay bill

staff writers — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 09:48:55 +0000

Opposition is growing to the “Anti-Homosexuality Bill” recently proposed in Uganda. An increasing number of Christians are condemning the Bill but the Archbishop of Canterbury is facing criticism for not speaking out on the issue.

Straight couple to attempt to register for civil partnership

staff writers — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 16:15:38 +0000

In the latest challenge to what many see as unfair marriage laws, a straight couple are attempting to register for a civil partnership. They say that a choice of marriage or civil partnership should be open to all couples, regardless of sexuality.

Re-arrest of "deserter" sparks civil liberties fears

staff writers — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 00:04:29 +0000

Joe Glenton, a British soldier who refused to return to Afghanistan after developing a principled opposition to the war, has been re-arrested and charged with five more offences following his part in an anti-war demonstration.

Christian leaders urged to condemn Ugandan anti-gay bill

staff writers — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 15:15:27 +0000

Christian leaders around the world, particularly in the Anglican Communion, are being urged to condemn proposed legislation in Uganda which would introduce the death penalty for certain consensual homosexual acts.

Pressure grows in Fiji over persecution of Methodist leaders

staff writers — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 16:03:38 +0000

A lawyer representing Methodist Church leaders in Fiji has attended a court hearing to argue that the charges against them should be dropped. The charges are thought to result from Methodist criticism of the military regime.

Protests as Iranian activist barred from receiving human rights award

agency reporter — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 08:56:16 +0000

Human rights groups have protested to the Iran over a longstanding travel ban on a journalist and activist which has prevented him from receiving the Martin Ennals Award in person.

Workplaces and churches urged not to ignore bisexuals

staff writers — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 09:56:31 +0000

A new report about bisexual people in the workplace has triggered debate about wider recognition of bisexuality, leading to calls for churches, workplaces and other institutions not to ignore bisexuals.

Free speech and homophobia

Symon Hill — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 18:56:03 +0000

Those who disagree with the allegedly homophobic views of a Norwich resident suspected of a hate incident have spoken up for her right to express them. Her supporters, on the other hand, have generally not issued statements showing such generosity or understanding.

Death and democracy in the Philippines

Shay Cullen — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 09:17:27 +0100

The formal democracy of the Philippines disguises a welter of corruption, human rights abuse and extrajudicial killings, says Shay Cullen. The world needs to recognise and respond to what is happening.

American campaigners urged to fight both militarism and homophobia

staff writers — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 19:50:08 +0100

US activists working for the inclusion of gay, lesbian and bisexual people in the military have been urged to avoid an uncritical approach to the armed forces. They are being encouraged to oppose militarism as well as homophobia.