The Permanent Representative of Italy to the United Nations in Geneva, Amb. Gian Lorenzo Cornado, intervened today at the Interactive dialogue with the United Nations Independent Expert on protection against violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity, Victor Madrigal-Borloz, during the 44th Session of the Human Rights Council. He thanked the Independent Expert for his report and underlined that “Conversion therapy” is discriminatory and causes unacceptable profound psychological and physical damage.
Ambassador Cornado stated that the fight against all forms of discrimination, including based on sexual orientation, represents a priority of the current Italian mandate on the Human Rights Council and, in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, Italy is determined to further strengthen its efforts on the issue. He added that the coronavirus has imposed unprecedented challenges to LGBTI persons, aggravating discriminations that negatively affect the enjoyment of their human rights, in particular their right to health, thus increasing their risk of enduring serious health complications or even facing death. Furthermore, he said that confinement measures are contributing to an increase of domestic violence, including when motivated by sexual orientation or gender identity.
Ambassador Cornado recalled that Italy joined the Equal Rights Coalition statement regarding the impact of COVID-19 on LGBTI persons and, in line with the Independent Expert’s call, urges all States to take into account the LGBTI specific needs and vulnerabilities when designing and implementing national, regional and international policies against the coronavirus. He concluded stressing that it is now more than ever imperative to fight against discrimination and for the dignity for every human being.
