Africa’s largest political affiliation supports LGBTQ rights as human rights, rejects violence against LGBTQ communities

Statement of the Executive Committee of the Africa Liberal Network
Africa’s largest grouping of political parties supports without reservation the rights of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and other sexual minorities.
The Network’s Executive Committee expresses deep regret and concern over the increase in LGBTQ refugees as a result of the hostile, violent and discriminatory acts against them in their home countries. These are too often directed by the hands of state officials and, at other times, severely discriminatory communities. The ALN remains committed to the principle of equality for all, regardless of gender or sexual orientation.
Many of these LGBTQ refugees flee to more tolerant countries, such as South Africa, only to be met either by more persecution or even xenophobia. South Africa’s progressive constitution and liberal view of marriage and civil unions does not change the lived experiences of these refugees and asylum seekers.
The ALN calls on all African governments to support the rights of LGBTQ individuals as human rights. As the Marrakech Declaration, a human rights framework, states:
“In particular we identify the following as key priorities for political action… Ensuring the implementation and application of laws ensuring equal rights before the law and preventing discrimination against any individual on the basis of race, colour, nationality, ethnic origin, religion, age, gender, sexuality or disability.”
The ALN implores the African Union (AU) and all regional bodies to actively promote the safety of all Africans, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Media enquiries:
Luke Akal (ALN Coordinator)
+27 (0)81 4813754