Rights of LGBT Individuals

Topic: Rights of LGBT Individuals
Country: Brazil
Delegate Name: Megan Aldworth
School: Vicksburg High School

Throughout the worlds countries there has been a great amount of discussion covering the rights of LGBT individuals. It is important to discuss this topic thoroughly in each nation. Covering the discussion of LGBT rights in the United Nations will allow the world to take a step closer to human equality.

The country of Brazil legalized same-sex marriage on May 14, 2013 causing it to be unique among the many countries of the world. Brazil being one of not many countries to legalize same sex marriage makes it an engrossing and captivating country for homosexual couples. However there are still complications with right-winged conservatives and lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender couples. With the LGBT rights having a good stance in the country of Brazil, the issue of public equality is still notable. Selectively Brazil is a country that can represent civil rights and human equality, because of its action of legalizing same-sex marriage. Among the United Nations relatively 94countries have shown support for LBGT rights, Brazil being one.

The country of Brazil legalized same-sex marriage on May 14, 2013 causing it to be unique among the many countries of the world. Brazil being one of not many countries to legalize same sex marriage makes it an engrossing and captivating country for homosexual couples. However there are still complications with right-winged conservatives and lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender couples. With the LGBT rights having a good stance in the country of Brazil, the issue of public equality is still notable.

In order to uphold the notion that all of Brazils people are equal, the country of Brazil must ensure that the LGBT citizens of the country have the ability to express themselves. It is necessary for the country of Brazil to allow carnivals, parades, and other “gay pride” events to take place in order to ensure LGBT citizens are aware of their stance in society; that is equal to others.

The most suitable way to prevent LGBT degradation and hate speech is for the government and supporters of the LGBT rights to advertise the notion that everyone is equal. If the public views everyone is equal they will begin to count LGBT as real people, with real feelings.

Staying optimistic about LGBT rights will allow Brazil to take a step closer to achieving equality among all of its citizens. The more satisfied the citizens, the more successful the country. As long as most governmental leaders keep a positive perspective on LGBT rights, then more Brazilians will realize LGBT citizens are equal.

Topic: Rights of LGBT Individuals
Country: Canada
Delegate Name: Nicholas Greanias
School: Saginaw Arts and Sciences Academy

LGBT rights has been an important topic recently, with reports of discrimination showing up all around the world. Canada feels that countries who are denying rights to citizens who are LGBT are in violation of basic human rights. While we understand the need of national sovereignty, we feel that this is a matter of Human Rights, and that the countries around the world need to fully recognize LGBT persons as full human with the basic right that everyone else has.

Canada is proud to have some of the most progressive LGBT laws. In 2003, 8 out of 10 provinces had legalized it, with it being legalized in the whole country in 2005. Canada has also had Anti-discrimination laws in place since 1998. Canada also has a large majority of it's citizens in support of LGBT rights.

Canada suggests an approach similar to the one taken in Canada. More people need to recognize that LGBT persons are no different then anyone else and that discrimination needs to stop. We think that every country should eventually implement laws that protect the rights of LGBT people, and should also try to prevent discrimination against them.

Canada finds it extremely important that the UN tries to end discrimination of LGBT people all around the world. We hope that the countries of this committee makes a decision that supports human rights, and ends this useless discrimination. While national sovereignty is important, we feel that this is an issue of Human Rights, and something that each country should implement.

Topic: Rights of LGBT Individuals
Country: China
Delegate Name: Jessica Dupree
School: Fishers High School

The People’s Republic of China feels that LGBT rights are a matter of national sovereignty and not a matter that the United Nations should concern itself with at the time being. It is clear to China that many countries are locked in legislative battles concerning these rights but they need to be handled on a country by country basis instead of taken on globally. The purpose of this committee is to address the violation of human rights and China does not feel that this is a significant enough topic for this committee to handle.

China has an interesting history concerning LGBT rights. Sexual activity between two people of the same gender became legal in 1997 and was taken of the mental illness list in 2001. Also it is legal for transsexuals to change their gender. These are the rights that, as a country, have been guaranteed to the citizens of China. Now open discrimination against LGBT individuals is not encouraged but there is no legislation prohibiting discrimination against such individuals. This policy is very similar to that of the United States and Russia. Our military is similar to that of the “Don’t ask, don’t tell” policy of the United States; LGBT individuals are not prohibited from serving as long as it is kept a secret.

The People’s Republic of China believes that being an LGBT individual should not be punishable by death but that the government does not need to recognize the lifestyle choices of these individuals nor condone it. We believe that the UN would be breaching national sovereignty if they chose to enforce acceptance of same sex marriage on all member nations seeing as it is each individual governments choice if they want to allow it or not. We also believe it is not an act against human rights because each member nation can define marriage differently, and in China we see marriage as something between a man and a woman. The only thing China would be amendable to would be the ban of discrimination that includes violence because we believe that is protecting the human rights described by the Human Rights Charter established by the UN.

The People’s Republic of China has no solution to this seeing as we believe it is a matter that does not need to be discussed by this committee but we would be open to resolutions that are centered around national sovereignty and that are not drastic changes do to the fact that China is perfectly comfortable with its policy as it stands and would like to keep it the way it is and we are sure many other countries wish to do the same. China strongly urges the Human Rights Council to consider the fact that national sovereignty is the main issue with the topic presented.

Topic: Rights of LGBT Individuals
Country: Cuba
Delegate Name: Lila Farran
School: Mattawan High School

The issue that has been repeated in the mixed media is the limitations on the rights that the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender individuals receive from different countries around the world. There are several countries that definitely strive towards passing more laws that give them more rights, but there is dispute between these countries and other countries that take their religious and cultural views to heart which abolishes many of the rights they get.

Through education, the UNHRC can change people's attitude towards the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender society. They can teach people tolerance to curb the violence against LGBT individuals. Although, Cuba does not feel that these people should be given the same rights as the heterosexuals in the country they do not condone violence against them. In 1979 it was considered legal to be a homosexual. However, homosexuals will be prohibited from having rights such as adopting, marriage, etc. but do have the right to choose their own sexual orientation. It is religiously looked down upon to be gay, but we want everyone to be equal in who they choose to be. The only culture that Cuba supports is that of a nuclear family which includes a mother, father, and their children.

To make sure that the countries can maintain their personal cultures, and sovereignty we would write sanctions against the countries that allow violent actions toward the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender community to go unpunished, but do not feel they should be sanctioned if they do not give these individuals rights. There should be no discrimination to the homosexuals because it is their decision even if it goes against the normal cultural values a country has. These individuals should not be afraid to leave their homes knowing they will get harassed. Cuba wants them to be who they are, but not to the extent of letting them take advantage of the cuban government. Doing so, countries like Cuba should respect other countries and not try and change their own laws and views on the rights of LGBT individuals.

Topic: Rights of LGBT Individuals
Country: Denmark
Delegate Name: Lydia Kugler
School: Williamston High School

The subject of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender persons has been in question since the early-1980s. The United Nations Human Rights Council adopted its first resolution in 2011 to address the rights of these people. Ninety-five nations have full or partial gay anti-discrimination laws, nineteen nations fully or partially recognize homosexual unions, and seventy-six nations criminalize consensual homosexual acts. Denmark believes that all lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender persons should be fully accepted into society with equal rights.

The Declaration or Human Rights states, “No one shall be subjected to torture or to cruel, inhuman, or degrading punishment or treatment. No one shall be subjected to arbitrary arrest, detention, or exile.” Denmark fully agrees with these guidelines. Denmark believes that all people have equal rights no matter what sexual orientation they might be. Also, Denmark ensures human diversity can thrive regardless of sexual orientation.

Denmark aims to promote the possibility for people to realize their individual character despite, age, ethnic origin, religion, social and cultural differences, gender, or sexual orientation. The United Nations can guarantee equal human rights in as many countries as possible to ensure rights to internationally traveling citizens. The goal of the United Nations includes: repealing laws that criminalize homosexuality, abolish the death penalty involving homosexuality, standardize age consent for homosexual and heterosexual conduct, ensure that asylum laws recognize sexual orientation as a basis for claiming persecution, and enable LGBT persons feeling persecution to avoid returning to countries or territories where their freedom is threatened. The United Nation’s objective must be to debate the rights of homosexual persons to other discriminating countries without causing sovereignty conflict. Denmark expects support from European countries and other countries with similar beliefs.

Topic: Rights of LGBT Individuals
Country: Ecuador
Delegate Name: Rebekah Graham
School: Fishers High School

Ecuador strongly believes that marriage should be between man and woman. It has always been believed that homosexual relationships are not equal to heterosexual relationships; therefore, homosexual relationships have been banned in our country. Ecuador believes that the world should follow our viewpoints.

In 2008 Ecuador’s constitution changed and clearly stated that gay and lesbian couples are not allowed to get married. It also outlawed them from being able to adopt children. (On Top Magazine) However, civil unions between homosexual couples have become legalized. Article 68 of the constitution made in 2008 gave homosexual couples the right to a civil union, but unlike heterosexual couples, they do not have the ability to adopt a child.

95% of Ecuador is Roman Catholic. (World Factbook) Our Catholic views play a big role on our views on homosexual couples. It states in The Bible that marriage should be between man and woman, and because so much of our country is Roman Catholic, we all have the same ideals for out country.

Ecuador firmly believes that the UNHRC should not enforce a policy that makes LGBT rights mandatory, but they can make a point to include homosexual couples into civil unions. Ecuador has already given homosexuals the right to be in a civil union, but we don’t plan to go any further. Ecuador is a very religious country, and our views on religion limit our country from allowing same-sex marriages.

Ecuador is looking forward to finding a solution to the rights of LGBT individuals. We are willing to look for a solution, but we stand firm on the fact that marriage should be between man and woman. Homosexuals should be allowed to join a civil union, but not allowed to get married or adopt children. We look forward to working with UNHRC to find a solution in a beneficial process.

https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/ec.html

http://www.ontopmag.com/article.aspx?id=16113&MediaType=1&Category=24

http://search.ohchr.org/search?site=default_collection&client=default_frontend&output=xml_no_dtd&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&Entqr=0&ud=1&sort=date%3AD%3AL%3Ad1&proxystylesheet=en_frontend&q=lgbt

Topic: Rights of LGBT Individuals
Country: France
Delegate Name: Adwoa Tandoh
School: Roeper School

My fellow delegates and honorable chair, France recognizes the need for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender individuals to have rights. France supports these individuals in their pursuit for these well deserved rights. France itself has taken steps to insure that these individuals receive these rights in its own country. This past spring The Republic of France passed a law to grant these individuals the right to get married and adopt children. France is also an active member of the European Union which has declared a supportive stance on gay marriage to. A supportive France urges other countries to also support the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people. After all these people are just that, people.

They deserve these rights as much as any other person. They deserve the right to be able to marry the people they want to without their country getting in their way. They also deserve the right to adopt children and start their own families. It is the purpose of the United Nations to make sure that all individuals have human rights. So what is the real difference between these people and others, other than the fact that they like different people? They still need air like regular people and food. They still get hurt and need help like other people. Most importantly they want to settle down with somebody and have a family. France believes that these people should have the basic human right to do this. This is why France urges this committee to pass a resolution supporting the full human rights of these people.

Topic: Rights of LGBT Individuals
Country: Holy See
Delegate Name: Rachel Rusinowski
School: Royal Oak High School

The Holy See believes that every human being is born with unalienable rights. No nation should deny any person of these rights, no matter their race, ethnicity, or sexual orientation. In the eyes of the Holy See, being an LGBT individual should not be punishable by death, however we do not support the lifestyles of these individuals. To deny a person these rights goes against the ICCPR, which must always be abided by, no matter what the circumstances are. Nations must abide by the ICCPR to protect all humans no matter what their sexual orientation is. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights states in Article 2 that "everyone is entitled to all the rights and freedoms set forth in this declaration, without distinction of any kind such as race, color, sex, language, religion, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth or other status." As a committee, we must work towards upholding these values and all others stated in this declaration. Cooperation of all nations is key if we would like to see change in the way that countries treat LGBT individuals. Article 3 states that "everyone has the right to life, liberty, and security of person," which further emphasizes the Holy See’s opinion on LGBT rights. It is the opinion of the Holy See that we must protect all peoples. If we are to uphold the values stated in the UDHR, persons of any sexual orientation must be protected. The Holy See would like to see all countries strive towards protecting the lives of LGBT individuals, even if a nation may not agree with their lifestyle.

Topic: Rights of LGBT Individuals
Country: India
Delegate Name: Mary Candela
School: Forest Hills Central High School

Harassment of any kind towards LGBT individuals is a pervasive and pressing issue of basic human rights that cannot be ignored, particularly in the UN. Unfortunately, India’s diversity, population growth, and cultural entrenchment make it difficult to radically change the direction in which the problem is headed. India is a supporter of LGBT rights. There are Gay Pride Parades in multiple of India’s largest cities including Delhi, Bangalore, Pondicherry, Kolkata, and Mumbai. Advisors from India participated in the writing of the Yogartaka Principles In 2008 Prime Minister Manmohan Singh called for a greater tolerance of homosexuality. Homosexual intercourse was legalized in a national court case in 2009. However, despite advances, four years is little more than a blink of the eye in terms of cultural shift. India is working towards the goal of human rights as covered in the constitution, but fighting embedded ideals, even flawed ones, is an uphill battle. There may be more immediate and equally helpful related issues on the horizon for LGBT individuals.

India, fortunately, does not suffer from widespread violent hate crimes. Instead, discrimination can be found in the workplace, in often limited treatment, education, and prevention of HIV/AIDS, and in a horrifyingly prevalent rape culture. These injustices are all symptoms of the same judgmental disease, but have more immediate and tangible solutions.

Advocating a complete and immediate cultural turnaround is a near impossibility. India’s unspoken taboo on sexual topics goes so far as to ban most pornographic materials at the national level. A cultural shift through open discussion will be slow going. This same lurking discomfort with sexuality is the cause of not only discrimination based on sexuality, but also a deep rooted rape culture. Instead of trying to solve the over-arching, abstract issue, India should focus on treating the aforementioned symptoms in attempt to slowly bring the cultural atmosphere to a place where this acceptance of basic human rights is possible. Addressing and acknowledging the problem of discrimination, stigmatization, and violence as has already been started in the 2011 report by Navi Pillay, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, is an important first step.

Topic: Rights of LGBT Individuals
Country: Indonesia
Delegate Name: Annalise Brinks
School: East Grand Rapids High School

In the Republic of Indonesia, 87% of the citizens identify themselves as Muslims. The national code doesn't incriminate private homosexual relations between two consenting adults. However, since 2002, 52 regions in Indonesia have criminalized homosexuality based on Sharia law from the Qur'an, the primary Islamic text. These laws are only applied to Muslim citizens of Indonesia. The goal of the Republic of Indonesia's views on LGBT rights is to maintain social harmony.

The Republic of Indonesia recommends that this issue be left up to each nation individually due to the cultural differences between countries. The majority of Indonesians do not agree with the United Nations' views on LGBT rights, so it would be ill-conceived for the United Nations to force these changes upon its members. These initiatives could cause unrest in Indonesia and create unnecessary conflict.

The United Nations could protect the rights of travelling individuals by confirming that Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender individuals are not discriminated against. Indonesia has demonstrated these values by allowing private homosexual relations between two consenting adults. These values are also established by the fact that the Sharia law in place only applies to Muslim citizens of the Republic of Indonesia.

Indonesia believes that it is addressing this issue in a way that is appropriate to the diversity of our country. The country does not wish to make any changes to the laws and regulations already in place in the near future and implores the United Nations to maintain the ability of member countries to employ autonomy in their approach to LGBT issues.

Topic: Rights of LGBT Individuals
Country: Ireland
Delegate Name: Nikolas Zazula
School: Vicksburg High School

It seems impossible to be oblivious to the struggle of the LGBT community to gain the equivalent marital rights to heterosexuals, as it has coated the international media, and is known throughout the world. These individuals this category live without the rights to marry, or even have children throughout the world. The Republic of Ireland is a country that is evolving to embrace the equality and empowerment of the gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender community.

As of the present, homosexual acts have been decriminalized along with the discrimination of these individuals and acts of violence and hatred towards them is outlawed within the country. Ireland has also given the right to a civil union to gay couples. 73% of the citizens of Ireland support the initialization of gay marriage and that it should be allowed within the constitution. In Ireland, homosexuals do not have the right to marry, and can only apply for adoption as a single applicant. Though, same-sex couples can apply as a foster family.

With the support of a whopping 73% of the nation, we as a country are aiming to fully administer rights to marry to LGBT individuals and support equality between sexual orientations. We believe the United Nations should attempt to guarantee the rights of these individuals in as many ways as possible, by enacting anti-discrimination laws, and preventing homophobic laws being enacted. We want the human race to evolve, and embrace one another's unique individuality.

Topic: Rights of LGBT Individuals
Country: Japan
Delegate Name: Adrienna Martinez
School: Saginaw Arts and Sciences Academy

LGBT rights in the world are tremendously overlooked. In many countries, such activity is banned and the people involved can be forced to undergo imprisonment and harsh treatment. Some countries, such as Japan, are fairly open to same-sex and other LGBT activities. There should not be any punishment for those who just want to love as the non-LGBT people do.

Japan are very respectable in the topic of LGBT rights. There are currently no laws against any LGBT activity and sexual reassignment surgeries are also allowed, though there are not many doctors who do them. Transgenders are even protected in prisons; if a person identifies as a gender that is not their biological gender, they are allowed to switch institutions to better fit their needs. In certain areas, LGBT people are protected, but this is not a national protection yet. Same-sex marriage is not completely legal in Japan yet because they do not have any formal positive or negative opinions on the matter. It seems the more this topic is being discussed in other countries, the more Japan is becoming more open to many things of this nature. Many temples and resorts, such as the Shunkō-in Zen and Tokyo Disney Resort, have held same-sex ceremonies to show their stances on the topic.

There is no reason for LGBT people to be discriminated against. The world should be much more open to the LGBT ideas. Same-sex marriage is definitely something that should be legalized because if they’re in love and truly want to get married, then they should be allowed to with no restrictions.

Topic: Rights of LGBT Individuals
Country: Libya
Delegate Name: Madi Crawford
School: Roeper School

Greetings fellow delegates, honorable chair,

Libya does not condone same sex romantic involvement. Doing so is strictly forbidden and can result in up to five years in prison. Libya believes that gay rights are unacceptable because it threatens the longevity of humanity. It affects religion, and will be the downfall of the human race. Libya does not in any way support the marriage of same sex couples. Adoption by same sex couples is strongly condemned.

Libya feels the rights of LGBTQ individuals is irrelevant as well as detrimental to society and Libya believes it would cause the world as we know it to crumble. Libya feels that when two people of the same sex engage in romantic endeavors they are single handedly limiting the population and contributing to the downfall of religion. Libya sees this as a problem as it cuts down the pool of citizens when it reduces the amount of people who can reproduce.

Libya hopes to continue implementing the imprisonment of LGBTQ individuals who engage in sexual activities. This will aid in reducing the amount of people who find it acceptable to do such things. Libya thinks this will further help population from being reduced greatly and will keep religion and the country intact. Libya feels other nations should implement similar or identical procedures in response to same sex romantic involvement. This will aid in the preservation of the population of society and keep religion untouched.

Libya is very much looking forward to working with nations to solve this pressing problem.

Topic: Rights of LGBT Individuals
Country: Mexico
Delegate Name: Erin Krause
School: Kalamazoo Central High School

Mexico has changed some laws facing the issue of LGBT individuals due to following worldwide trends. Ever since the 1970’s, many LGBT organizations have come into action. Many LGBT marches and pride parades have happened in Mexico City ever since 1979 and also in Guadalajara since 1996. In 2001, the amendment to Article 1 of the Federal Constitution to prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation. Also, in 2003, the federal anti-discrimination law came into play. Same-sex marriage was also legalized in Mexico City, Quintana Roo, and Colima. In August 1999, the first meeting of Lesbians and Lesbians Feminists was held in Mexico City. From this meeting on, there became a organized effort for expanded LGBT rights in the capital.

Mexico would like to discuss in committee what new acts will take place to further the rights of LGBT individuals. They would like for equality to take place in the workplace, schools, and throughout the community. I would propose that this committee suggests full equal rights to LGBT individuals in Mexico and throughout all countries and nations.

Many countries have passed laws concerning the rights of LGBT individuals. Some of these countries include Argentina, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Denmark, France, and many others. Many states in the United States have passed laws concerning the rights of LGBT individuals. The United Kingdom has passed laws, affective in England and Wales, which is expected to be in full force sometime in 2014.

Topic: Rights of LGBT Individuals
Country: Nepal
Delegate Name: Kelly Hancox
School: Mattawan High School

The rights of the LGBT community have become a focus across the world. LGBT people have long been discriminated against in many ways and forms. Recent attacks on these individuals have happened in the countries of Haiti and Jamaica, yet in other countries action has been taken to improve the rights of the LGBT people. The world stands by for decisions to be made on this controversial issue.

Nepal's Supreme Court has recently issued the government to take away discriminating laws against the LGBT community. The government is making efforts to create equality for these people and have been in the process of drafting a new constitution. The government recognizes the third gender in having the same rights as males and females and "other" is listed along with "male" and "female" on the citizenship ID cards. Our Blue Diamond Society has been an official organization representing these people since 2001 and remains the premier LGBT rights organization today. Recently, we opened our first LGBT community center. The center was opened in Kathmandu and houses the Blue Diamond Society and they assist in the social transition that allows the public to be more accepting. While it remains illegal to marry, efforts are being made to change these policies as our ever-changing government moves forward.

Nepal recognizes the need for equality on this issue, but realizes that social changes do not happen very quickly. Nepal reminds the committee that any decision made will not change the situation overnight. Nepal encourages the gradual implementation of equality. The delegation looks forward to working with other progressive countries.

Topic: Rights of LGBT Individuals
Country: Netherlands
Delegate Name: Ella Tretter
School: Vicksburg High School

With all the conversation of LGBT, it is clear that this is a topic that needs to be talked about and solved. Many countries are trying to pass laws to promote LGBT rights, why others stay along the lines of their religious beliefs. Many countries ban the activity altogether with punishments of imprisonment or even cruel rituals going along with their religion.

LGBT rights in the Netherlands have been the most progressive in Europe and worldwide. Same-sex sexual activity was legalized in 1811. An Equal Rights Law was enacted in 1993, it bans discrimination on sexual orientation on the grounds of employment, housing, public accommodations, and more. The Dutch parliament began granting same-sex domestic partnerships benefits on January 1, 1998 as an alternative for marriage and was allowed for opposite sex as well. Until later in 2001 when we legalized same-sex marriage and were the first country to do so. The Netherlands allow people to change legal gender but only in certain conditions. Gays and lesbians are allowed to sever openly in the Military and they also allow same-sex couples to jointly adopt.

The Netherlands has become one of the most socially liberal countries in the world; 90% of ethnic Dutch people see homosexuality as honorable, regardless only 30% and the 25% of Turks and Moroccans agreeing. Most opposition and violence against LGBT citizens come from the Christians and Muslin communities, which make up less than a quarter of the country’s population.

A recent poll shows in May 2013 that 85% of the Dutch population supported same-sex marriage and adoption. A poll conducted in 2006 indicated that 82% of the Netherlands supported same-sex marriage, which is was the highest amount of support during that time.

We believe that the topic should be resolved so the members of the LGBT can travel from a liberal country to a conserved country, and keep their rights reserved.

Topic: Rights of LGBT Individuals
Country: New Zealand
Delegate Name: Samantha Zahrai
School: Mattawan High School

Every person is entitled to basic human rights. Whether he is gay, bisexual, straight, religious, or atheist. No person should be discriminated against because of who they are. So many countries are open to discovering new religions and cultures, but not enough are willing to accept members of the LGBT community. New Zealand recognizes that everyone must be accepted for who they are and that no one should be punished or discriminated against because of his or her sexuality. Same-sex marriage, adoption by same-sex couples, and freedom for gays to serve in the military are all acceptable in New Zealand. New Zealand has many openly homosexual people in power. For example, there are many members of parliament who are gay and lesbian. Also, New Zealand’s Olympian speed skater, Blake Skjellerup, is openly gay.

New Zealand plans to suggest similar solutions to those that took place in New Zealand. The UN should bring up the possibility of same-sex marriages in every country. Of course, it is understandable that many countries’ religions do not believe in the equality of the LGBT community, but the UN must try its hardest to help these countries keep their religion and their government separate. Although not everyone accepts gays, lesbians, bisexuals, and transgenders, they must stilll accept them as human beings and allow them to have the same rights as themselves. Since members of the LGBT community are indeed human and should be treated so, discrimination against gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people should be punishable. The UN should suggest to countries to enforce a prison sentence for people who discriminate against members of the LGBT community.

New Zealand finds it extremely necessary for the rest of the world to accept members of the LGBT community and grant them the human rights that they deserve. New Zealand looks forward to discussing and finding effective ways to improve the rights of gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people all over the world.

Topic: Rights of LGBT Individuals
Country: Pakistan
Delegate Name: Melissa Caren
School: Royal Oak High School

The stance of Pakistan on the topic of LGBT rights is one rooted from the cultural and religious beliefs of both its government and its citizens. Though advancements have been made in recent times to further the civil rights of LGBT individuals, Pakistan does not specifically support the LGBT lifestyle. Same-sex sexual acts still remain illegal in Pakistan, same-sex marriages and legal unions are not recognized, and the LGBT lifestyle in general is still a taboo that is frowned upon by the large majority of Pakistan’s inhabitants.

Pakistan has moved forward in recent years regarding the civil rights of LGBT individuals, but while Pakistan does not hold prejudice over the people who choose to live this way so long as they obey Pakistani law, (a mixture of Anglo-Saxon colonial law and Islamic law) and refrain from partaking in any same-sex sexual acts, it also does not condone the LGBT lifestyle. Pakistan has become more socially tolerant of the LGBT community as liberalization has occurred over the past few years, and a number of public Pakistani LGBT rights activist groups have thrived for years, as well. In 2009, the Supreme Court of Pakistan even ruled in favor of the civil rights of transsexual citizens, a huge step for the progress of the Pakistani LGBT community. Pakistan does support these people as human beings, as shown by this progress, but does not believe in furthering their rights if they infringe upon Pakistani law.

Even with these advancements of LGBT rights, however, Pakistan does not have civil rights laws to prohibit discrimination or harassment on the basis of sexual orientation. Pakistan is also very strict on its laws restricting sexual acts between two members of the same sex, and offenders could face sentences that range from two years in jail to life imprisonment. Same-sex marriages and civil unions are not legally recognized in Pakistan, as the Qur'an states that marriage is a sacred union between a man and a woman under Allah. Pakistan has removed online material that threatens the religious and social values of Pakistan, such as the first gay Pakistani website, QueerPK, as well. Though Pakistan recognizes members of the LGBT community as its people, it does not believe they should receive special treatment for their conditions that disregard Pakistani law, or that they should flaunt said conditions.

Pakistan believes that the enforcement of one international guideline regarding LGBT rights would work poorly due to the varying social, political, and religious circumstances of each country in the world, and that the basis of LGBT rights should be decided by each individual nation. Pakistan respects the opposing views of other nations on this issue, but cannot support their beliefs on the basis of Pakistani law and the respectable principles its people live by and that have helped found this nation.

Topic: Rights of LGBT Individuals
Country: Russia
Delegate Name: (Noah) Myung Chang Lee
School: Forest Hills Northern High School

Recently, the issue of LGBT rights has dominated daily discussions. Reports of supposed persecution or discrimination against LGBT individuals permeate newspapers, magazines, websites, radio, and the Internet. Numerous protests were held, accusations were made, meetings were arranged, speeches were given—yet the world still awaits the answer to the issue.

For Russian Federation, providing the answer to the subject of LGBT rights is not simply an issue of politics and ideology; it is also an issue of national defense. Promotion of LGBT culture in Russian Federation would hurt already-low birthrate in the country. Since Russian Armed Forces rely on compulsory service, dwindling birthrate presents a threat to national security. Although the importance of cooperation among the international community cannot be understated, the threat posed to national security presents a difficulty in supporting points of view that urge every nation to accept LGBT individuals’ rights. In other words, any act by UNHRC that seeks to guarantee LGBT individuals’ rights in every nation endangers the national security of Russian Federation and any similarly situated nation.

With that said, Russian Federation would like to reassure the committee that Russian Federation does not actively incriminate homosexuals. On May 27, 1993, Former President Boris Yeltsin repealed Article 121.1 of the criminal code and thus effectively legalized homosexuality in Russian Federation. By endorsing ICD-10 in 1999, Russian Federation no longer views homosexuality as a mental illness. There are several active LGBT rights organizations, including the Russian LGBT network and Gayrussia.ru, in Russian Federation, and the government has not been shutting down or attacking these organizations.

Nonetheless, the Family Code of the Russian Federation approved in 1995 clearly states marriage as being between a man and a woman. Unless this Code is repealed or amended, Russian Federation will define marriage as such. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights only provides for the right to marry “without any limitation due to race, nationality or religion.” Nowhere in Article 16 is there a reference to sexual orientation. As long as Article 16 in Universal Declaration of Human Rights stands unruffled, Russian Federation sees no formal, international definition of marriage that would contradict the definition of marriage stated in the Code. Hence, the UN essentially has no basis on which to enforce LGBT rights to nations. Even if the UN agrees to amend Article 16, the UN could not compel individual nation to accept it, considering how such an act would, in effect, violate the Article 21 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which states that the power of government rests on the will of the people as expressed through election. Enforcing a measure against the peoples’ values deprives the ruling power of its authority, and national surveys testify that most Russian citizens do not appreciate LGBT ideologies.

So if UNHRC cannot enforce each nation to adhere to a strict code of LGBT rights, how could it guarantee the rights of itinerant LGBT individuals? Simply put, the national origin of LGBT individuals, or any other individuals, does not automatically exempt them from obeying local jurisdiction. In Russian Federation, the Constitution and federal laws have “supremacy on the entire territory of the Russian Federation” as supported by Article 4 of the Constitution. Travelers need to be aware of the local laws wherever they venture; whether the violation of local law occurs knowingly and unknowingly, UN cannot be called on to interfere with local jurisdictions or to remedy infractions resulting from the traveler’s negligence.

Topic: Rights of LGBT Individuals
Country: South Korea
Delegate Name: Anastasia Cavazos
School: Flint Southwestern Classical Academy

Being that Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgendered rights are difficult to explain in its entirety. It’s honestly hard to say that these rights are anything more than just a personal issue. As a country that shows a strong concern for it’s people, we want our people to be happy. Therefore, same-sex sexual activity is perfectly legal. However, same-sex couples and households headed by same-sex couples are not allowed the same legal shields as heterosexuals, or “straight” people. Sex reassignment surgery is legal to any individual in The Republic of Korea. However, it is only legal after the age of 20. We see sexuality, sexual orientation, and/ or desire of gender as a personal problem. This just hasn’t been made a decision just yet.

As, The Republic of Korea, we want to make sure that people are equally granted their right to happiness regardless of the discrimination they face amongst the people around them. Whether they choose to keep their sexuality and/or sexual preference a secret it is a personal decision in its entirety. Who are we to say who they should like/love? It’s not illegal to be Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and/or Transgendered (Transexual) in our country. We hope to come to an agreement of others seeing happiness for the people the way that we do.

Although, many see the only normal union being between man and woman. We can’t make that a huge issue. This is about what people have the right to do. We should keep this committee strictly about humans, the people, and their rights. This isn’t about morality at all. Our people can live a life of ridicule all they want, if they so choose. Let’s not make this about whether “God” sees it that way or not. We aren’t the Religious rights committee.

Topic: Rights of LGBT Individuals
Country: Sudan
Delegate Name: Paige Etchison
School: Fishers High School

The topic of LGBT rights is one that has recently come into frequent, and often passionate, discussion. The biggest problems regarding the rights of LGBT individuals are the religious significance of these people, the lack of fertility with these couples, and the amount of disease present within the LGBT community.

Sudan does not condone any form of homosexual activity, as stated in the Criminal Act of 1991. However, there are some LGBT rights groups present in Sudan attempting to revise these laws. Homosexuallity, especially the public expression of such acts, is indecent and goes against the primary religious beliefs of the people of Sudan.

While Sudan believes that it is important to protect the rights of the people, it is also important to maintain national sovereignty and respect the nations that have different social, political, and religious beliefs. Sudan by no means encourages the promotion of LGBT culture and beliefs, as it could cause social and political ideology conflicts among the people of individual nations as well as the would. Most belief systems handle the topic of homoxuality differently, especially in relation to their status and acceptance. Sudan believes that the religion of a nation should be considered with any potential solutions, as to preserve national sovereignty.

In order to come up with a resolution that does not invade national sovereignty, we must first identify the primary problems that are associated with the rights of LGBT individuals.

Firstly, there is the issue of basic human rights, and guaranteeing that they are given to all individuals, regardless of sexual orientation. Sudan believes that these individuals can be given the same primary rights as all other citizens, yet that nations should be able to judge the necessity and extent of laws that would protect these individuals and grant them rights.

Secondly, there is the issue of guaranteeing safety with international travel. Primarily, this is concerned with creating a safe international environment where LGBT individuals do not fear physical attack based on their sexuality. Sudan believes that how the homosexual community is regarded in a particular nation is the decision of the ruling government of that nation, and that if that nation does not agree with the idea of homosexuality for either religious or cultural reasons, then they do not need to create that environment for tourists, who are not required or obligated by any means to travel to those countries who might not be totally accepting of their sexual orientation.

Thirdly, there is the conflict of openly LGBT individuals in nations where their sexual orientation is not accepted or tolerated, whether it be by the government or by their fellow citizens. Sudan would like to point out that it is not entirely necessary for these individuals to express their sexual orientation, and that if they wish to express this without fear of retribution, they should attempt to relocate themselves to an area where it is more accepted.

Finally, and most importantly, there is the necessity to maintain national sovereignty while attempting to provide rights for these individuals. It is absolutely essential that the government has the

final say on the laws regarding homosexuality and LGBT individuals beyond the guarantees of the UN charter, which is essentially basic human rights pertaining to the availability of necessities to life as well as basic safety.

Topic: Rights of LGBT Individuals
Country: Sweden
Delegate Name: Stephanie Nguyen
School: Forest Hills Northern High School

It's been over 30 years since Sweden declared that homosexuality is *not* a mental illness. Sweden is seen as one of the most progressive countries regarding LGBT rights. And it is for good reason; Sweden strives for equality with the majority of Swedish citizens agree, 71%, supporting this ideal. It is the priority of Sweden to be rid of discrimination and bar the belief that LBGT citizens must be stripped of their natural human rights: happiness. With happiness comes freedom of speech, marriage, and the feeling that they can be accepted. Same-sex marriage, legally changing someone's sex, adoption, and in vitro fertilization (IVF) are just some of the rights everyone else receives that we have worked for to give everyone the opportunity.

Sweden believes that the UN and UNHRC will and can be a major influence on the entire world. The existence of LGBT individuals exists internationally – some may never be themselves in fear or discrimination so the statistics are unclear. On such a large scale of an issue, it is not only the priority of the UN and UNHRC, but the country's as well. Countries should have their inhabitant's well being and safety as a primary concern.

Without the loss and respect of country's sovereignty and cultural values, it does not mean the UN and UNHRC should not act at all. Both should enforce that countries must allow equality withing all citizens. It does not mean that people with cultural or religious beliefs must agree, but they may discuss or pray or perform religious ceremonies without any change. With LGBT individuals travelling internationally, it should be promoted that they may travel without any fear. As long as these individuals do not disturb or cause trouble within the country (the same goes for anyone), there should be no issue.

Sweden hopes that countries see the benefits of equality. Not only for the well being and assurance for individuals all over the world, but it will also boost countries economically. With travel open for everyone, more international trade can occur, or business done with large corporations. Although the ultimate goal will take much time, with small steps, change can be made. It is the goal of Sweden to ensure everyone's rights and happiness.

Topic: Rights of LGBT Individuals
Country: Turkey
Delegate Name: Katrina Yeomans
School: Forest Hills Northern High School

The subject of rights for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) persons is a delicate issue that needs to addressed and resolved. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights, passed by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948, states in Article 6 that “all are equal before the law and are entitled to equal protection under the law without discrimination.” Few nations allow LGBT persons the same rights as heterosexuals. In many state and national constitutions, rights for LGBT persons are rarely even mentioned.

The Republic of Turkey has no laws against discrimination towards LGBT persons. There is widespread homophobic discrimination in Turkey and people have gone so far in the past as to kill someone because of their sexual orientation. Homosexuality is legal in Turkey but same-sex marriages are not recognized, adoption by same-sex partners is not permitted and homosexual men and women are not allowed to serve openly in military. Currently there are no anti-discrimination laws for LGBT persons, but constitutional protection has been drafted and is waiting to be passed by Turkish Government.

Conditions for LGBT persons have improved partly because of the actions of the LGBT rights movement and pressure from the European Union ascension process. Turkey is currently in the status of being a “candidate country” to join the European Union. It is undergoing analysis to see to what degree Turkey meets the membership criteria and what remains to be done. Many European Union countries are opposed to Turkey becoming a member and have expressed their concern about the status of human rights in the state.

Turkey is open to working with the United Nations to find a resolution that addresses the issue of the rights of LGBT persons. At a Commission on Human Rights, Turkey supported a statement made by the European Union in favor of sexual orientation and human rights. Currently, the Republic of Turkey has no provisions for people of different sexual orientation but is working on passing anti-discriminatory laws and improving the rights of LGBT persons.

Topic: Rights of LGBT Individuals
Country: United Kingdom
Delegate Name: Leia Tompkins
School: Vicksburg High School

The subject of rights for the LGBT community has become a major topic through out the world today. Many countries are slowly supporting the idea of equalizing LGBT individuals, but more countries are against it, due to cultural or religious beliefs. Alleged persecution of these persons is mentioned almost daily in some form of news, from local to global.

The United Kingdoms opinion on LGBT rights has been a major discussion over several decades. In 2005 the U.K allowed civil partnerships and soon to be in 2014, gay marriage will be legal in England and Wales. The United Kingdom sees no problems with having a non ‘typical’ marriage of a man and a woman. A lot has changed since the 1950’s and 60’s when most gay bans were placed in the U.K.

Many religious or belief bodies in the U.K are less than willing to perform same sex marriages and even several churches are banned from doing so. At this point in time the United Kingdom isn’t to concerned on having every religious body open to performing it, for there are some who are willing which is all that matters. The United Kingdom respects people’s religious belief of a man and a woman only being wed in church but also respects the LGBT community’s wish to be wed in a church where they are welcome.

The UNHRC should be able to provide basic rights for LGBT individuals in countries under the United Nations. According to Article 19 “All states should decriminalize homosexuality and rigorously enforce the criminal law against individuals who commit acts of violence against individuals based on their sexual orientation or gender identity”. The United Kingdom believes that the UN should recommend laws to help protect LGBT individuals in their own country and when traveling to other countries that may or may not support the individuals beliefs.

Countries like the United States and France are already taking steps toward LGBT rights. The U.K would not like to go against a countries cultural or religious views on the topic but they would like to find a way for LGBT rights to exist even on a miniscule level.

Topic: Rights of LGBT Individuals
Country: United States
Delegate Name: Heather Wiggins
School: Mattawan High School

In the past few decades, starting in the 1980's, there has been a major push for the rights of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender community. With the passing of time into our modern age, more and more frequently the world is seeing an increase in awareness of these individuals. In 1948 the UN General Assembly passed the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. This protects the rights of individuals all over the globe, yet every day the rights of LGBT individuals are violated. Newspapers, magazines, media networks, and the internet are being blown up with stories of LGBT discrimination. In some countries to be homosexual is to be executed; in others torture, denial of housing, employment, and custody. Even in countries that have anti-discrimination laws, LGBT individuals are subjected to terrible verbal abuse. While some steps are being taken to protect these individual’s rights, it is not enough.

The U.S.A. has had a complicated past in regards to the rights of the LGBT community. In 1924 America saw its first gay rights organization in Chicago, the Society for Human Rights. Since then America has struggled with this. On November 7 2013 the United State Senate passed a LGBT anti-discrimination bill. This bill protects gay, lesbian, and transgender employees from workplace discrimination. It would provide the same protections for LGBT workers as for all other employees. This is a large step towards protecting the rights of the LGBT community. A recent survey showed that about 3.8% of the population of the United States identifies themselves as LGBT. The United States is very aware of the issues that face the LGBT community.

The United States respects these individual’s rights to “freedom of expression” as stated in Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The United States would like to see that these people have these basic rights no matter where they are. Being part of the LGBT community is not illegal in the United States and this country will work to make it so in others. The United States is ready to push for equality for every person. As Hilary Clinton affirmed in 2011, “human rights are gay rights, and gay rights are human rights, once and for all.”

The United States would like to see the Committee formulate a resolution that further protects these people’s rights; a resolution that protects the right to freedom of expression and the right of equality for all people.