Delivered by: H.E. Ms Anna Jardfelt, Ambassador, Permanent Representative of Sweden to the UN in Geneva on behalf of the Nordic Baltic states
Chair,
Mr Independent Expert,
Human rights must be universally enjoyed by everyone irrespective of sexual orientation or gender identity. We, the Nordic Baltic states, have repeatedly stated so and we continue to stand by this contention. But what does it mean?
It means rejecting violence, discrimination and stigmatization based on actual or perceived sexual orientation or gender identity. Embedded norms and stereotypes concerning sexual orientation and gender identity are often combined with a lack of adequate legal protection to safeguard LGBTI persons’ enjoyment of all human rights.
It means respecting that gender is not necessarily perceived or experienced binary, and that gender identity and gender expression do not always correlate with biological sex. Discrimination and intolerance for diversity are predominantly, but not exclusively, seen in countries where the space for civil society and democracy is already limited or shrinking.
It means recognizing that love is love and precious in its own right. Still, consensual same-sex relationships are criminalized in almost 70 states – in some cases even by death penalty. This is utterly unacceptable.
Mr Independent Expert,
How can comprehensive sexuality education best contribute to achieving the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights?
I thank you.