Homosexuality is still punishable by death in five countries

Thu, 07/02/2009 - 10:33am

India decriminalized homosexuality today, marking a major victory for gay rights activists worldwide. But there's still a long way to go, according to international watchdog ILGA.

Being gay in India carried the risk of a lifelong prison term, reports the ILGA's May 2009 world map of gay rights. At least five other countries -- Mauritania, Sudan, Saudi Arabia, Yemen and Iran -- substitute the death penalty in place of imprisonment. Only six countries afford gay couples marriage with full legal rights: South Africa, Spain, Belgium, Norway, Sweden and Canada.

Correction: The new measure approved by India applies only to the country's capital, New Delhi.

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An important development

by B. Elli Cose on Thu, 07/02/2009 - 12:56pm

An important development indeed. Good for India (or at least the portion thereof under the jurisdiction of the Delhi High Court).

A sad decline of India's

by Usama2 on Sat, 07/04/2009 - 4:36pm

A sad decline of India's moral standing in the world. Homosexual conduct is contrary to the betterment of mankind. It is a violation and rebellion against God's commands. Human society continues to slide towards its demise.