SA's decision to abstain from UN elections on LGBT resolution criticised

23 nations voted for the appointment of an independent expert to monitor violence against LGBT communities.

FILE: A rainbow flag, representing equality for members of the LGBTI community. Picture: Stock.xchng.

CAPE TOWN - Rights activists have criticised South Africa’s decision to abstain from voting in a United Nation's LGBT resolution.

The resolution to establish a gay, lesbian, bi-sexual and transsexual rights watchdog was passed last week.

The resolution was put forward and supported by countries like Brazil, Angola, Cuba, Venezuela and Vietnam.

Eighteen countries voted against the UN's appointment of an independent expert to monitor violence and discrimination against LGBT communities.

Twenty-three nations voted to ensure its implementation.

LGBT activist Pierre de Vos says there is no “coherent political” reason for South Africa to have abstained.

“Expect that some people in government who made this decision are not too enthusiastic about protecting gays and lesbians from discrimination, assault and murder.”

An official UN report states South Africa called the resolution “divisive” and an “arrogant approach”.