New hope for human rights activists despite staunch opposition
Friday, February 21, 2025 | 280 Views |
Hoping for change: LGBTI activists in the country hope the new government will introduce friendlier laws FILE PIC
Human rights supporters say Constitutional reforms remain necessary to protect a wide range of citizens, including additional rights to members of the LGBTQI+ community.
Although Botswana decriminalised so-called sodomy laws in 2019, protections do not extend to all LGBTQI+ people, including those identifying as intersex or transgender. Legislation proposed last fall would have expanded human rights of the LGBTQI+ community and establish better legal protections, but it was not passed. Opposition from religious groups, which continues today, is the reason, activists say.
That should concern every Motswana. The implications extend far beyond cattle and farmers. Botswana’s beef industry is a critical pillar of the economy, supporting thousands of households and sustaining businesses along the value chain.The loss of access to lucrative export markets has already demonstrated how quickly an animal-health crisis can become an economic crisis.This is, therefore, not the time for complacency, blame, or political...