The UN General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the first international text prohibiting torture in absolute terms.
Article 5 stipulates that “No one shall be subjected to torture or to cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment”.
Today marks the moment in 1987 when the UN Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment came into effect. The convention has been ratified by 163 countries, including Cambodia.
Being an ally is about more than silent acceptance. It’s about being there for your lesbian, gay, bi, trans and intersex (LGBTI) family members, friends, colleagues and neighbours. It’s about striving to understand their experiences, and helping them to understand yours. It’s about supporting one another in times of need. It’s about setting a positive example for others. And most importantly, it’s about creating a more inclusive and loving society where everyone is valued, no matter who they are or whom they love.
The United Nations is calling on you to be there for the LGBTI community.