LGBT

Front Line is concerned following reports that the Moscow authorities have banned a demonstration in support of tolerance and respect for rights and freedoms of the LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender) community in the Russian Federation and Belarus, called 'Slavic Pride 2009'. This demonstration is organised by Project GayRussia, which was founded in May 2005 to fight against discrimination against Gays and Lesbians in Russia. Project GayRussia is the Russian coordinator of the International Day Against Homophobia, which takes place annually on 17 May. 

Front Line is deeply concerned following reports that charges of trespassing have been brought against Pepe Julian Onziema, Valentine Kalende and Usaam Mukwaaya, defenders of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) rights in Kampala, Uganda. Pepe Julian Onziema, Valentine Kalende and Usaam Mukwaaya work for Sexual Minorities in Uganda (SMUG), an organisation dedicated to the defence of LGBT rights. The charges were brought against them following their arrests on 4 June 2008 during a peaceful protest at the HIV/AIDS Implementers' Meeting, an annual event described as an opportunity for HIV programme implementers to share lessons learned and best practices in an effort to strengthen the efficacy of HIV/AIDS programmes. The event is co-sponsored by the President's Emergency Plan For AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), UNAIDS, the World Bank, the Global Fund, UNICEF, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Global Network of People Living with HIV/AIDS (GNP+).