Statement on solidarity, freedom of expression and human rights of LGBTIQ persons in Asia
9 March 2022
ILGA Asia is shocked at the unfounded allegations and prejudiced remarks made by a regional activist through a public statement dated 6 March 2022. ILGA Asia’s Executive Board is extremely concerned by the defamatory statements made against other regional activists, our board, and staff members. ILGA Asia’s staff members are free to protect themselves by taking care of the principles of freedom of expression and anti-defamation approach for a fruitful dialogue among our communities.
ILGA Asia is a pan-Asia human rights organization working to protect and promote the rights of LGBTIQ individuals in Asia. We represent more than 190 member organizations across East Asia, South Asia, Southeast Asia, and West Asia. Our vision is a world where Asia is a safe place for all, where all can live in freedom and equality, be properly informed in the nature of sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, and sex characteristic (SOGIESC) rights, have access to justice, and diversity is respected; regardless of their age, race, ethnicity, nationality, belief, language, class, caste, health and other statuses.
We are governed by the principles of equality and non-discrimination in line with international human rights law and standards. We have no allegiance to any particular government, political party or religious belief. ILGA Asia’s recruitment policy follows a robust hiring process where the hiring committee is made up of members from the Executive Board and Secretariat, and every board member has access to this process. All of ILGA Asia’s staff members are free to hold their personal opinions and participate in peaceful protests to support human rights causes if they wish to do so.
Further, as an Asia-based organisation, we take the issue of caste-based prejudice very seriously and condemn defamatory comments against India-based Dalit & Transgender activists. We extend our solidarity to anyone who has been attacked in this manner in the said public statement.
Due to their breach of ILGA Asia’s principles and policies, the Executive Board has collectively decided to cease any association with the said activist and will proceed to implement further measures regarding the membership of their organization.
Sincerely,
In accordance to ILGA Asia’s whistleblower policy or further inquiry regarding this matter, we welcome you to reach out to our Executive Director (director@ilgaasia.org), Executive Board (board@ilgaasia.org) or Co-chairs, Executive Board (cochairs@ilgaasia.org).
