Ministry Statements & Speeches:
Mr Vice-President,
We thank the Independent Expert for his insightful report.
Aotearoa New Zealand strongly supports the rights of all persons, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. We remain deeply concerned at persistent and increasing violence and discrimination against LGBTQIA+ individuals in many countries, sometimes justified under religious narratives. We call on Uganda to immediately repeal its deeply discriminatory Anti-Homosexuality legislation. Closer to home, we welcome the decriminalisation of same sex relations in the Cook Islands in April, a historic moment for the Pacific region.
Mr Vice-President, 2023 marks ten years of marriage equality legislation in New Zealand. In January this year we implemented self-identification processes allowing New Zealanders to amend the gender on their birth certificate more easily, an important development for transgender, intersex, nonbinary and takutāpui New Zealanders. We are proud of our progress, but recognise there is still more to be done.
The role of the Independent Expert is critical. We thank the current mandate holder, Victor Madrigal-Borloz, for his tireless efforts over the last three years. His reports and recommendations have catalysed policy reform, fostered dialogue, and shed light on the challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ communities around the world.
In the Māori language we say ngā mihi maioha ki a koe – we extend our deepest gratitude to you. Muchísimas gracias..
Thank you, Mr Vice-President.