The ICJ today welcomed the consideration of a bill by the Philippines’ Senate that would prohibit discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity.
“Anti-discrimination laws, such as this one, provide an important tool to tackle discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity around the world,” said Philip Dayle, ICJ Legal Officer. “The bill follows an emerging international practice and would be vital in ensuring compliance with international human rights standards that bind the Philippines, such as the right to non-discrimination, equality before the the law, and an effective remedy,” he added.
In a written submission to the Senate Committee on Labour, Employment and Human Resource Development, the ICJ today set out the basis for protection against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in international human rights law.
The ICJ will continue to monitor the progress of the bill throughout the parliamentary process and encourages the timely adoption of such a law.
Philippines-prohibiting discrimination sexual orientation-Press releases-2006 (full text, PDF)
Philippines-legislation prohibits discrimination-Non-judicial submissions-2006 (full text, PDF)
