British High Commissioner reinforces importance of free press and human rights organisations

Speaking at a special reception to celebrate the coronation of King Charles III, the British High Commissioner said the UK and Guyana have committed to democracy, the rule of law and human rights.

British High Commissioner reinforces importance of free press and human rights organisations

British High Commissioner to Guyana, Jane Miller has indicated that the United Kingdom remains committed to upholding human rights, and supporting the development of a free and democratic society in Guyana, including an independent press. 

Speaking at a special reception to celebrate the coronation of King Charles III, the British High Commissioner said the UK and Guyana have committed to democracy, the rule of law and human rights.

She told the gathering that the UK will continue to actively support civil society organizations, the media and human rights defenders to help ensure the rights of all Guyanese are respected and protected.

Singling out the press, High Commissioner Miller said it is important for the fourth estate to remain strong and independent. 

“Our commitment for strong and independent democratic institutions remain steadfast. Having just commemorated World Press Freedom Day, I am delighted that the media have made it through the waters to be here this evening. So thank you so much for being here. We recognize the importance of media freedom as a fundamental right, that plays a vital role in transparency and accountability in any vibrant economy,” the British High Commissioner said. 

The High Commissioner also reaffirmed the UK’s unwavering support and commitment to the LGBTQ community, and urged that the country’s laws be updated to protect the rights of the LGBTQ community. 

“It is our sincere belief that every individual deserves to be treated with dignity and respect and equality, regardless of who they choose to love, whether their sexual orientation or their gender identity. Now I acknowledge that many of the Guyana’s laws pertaining to the rights of LGBT are inherited from the UK but it’s worth noting that UK has changed and our laws have been updated to ensure the protection and inclusion of LGBT individuals, and I urge Guyana to do the same,” High Commissioner Miller said. 

Across the world, 67 countries, including Guyana, have laws criminalizing consensual same-sex intimacy, with 11 instituting the death penalty for violation of such laws.

In August 2021, the National Assembly decriminalized cross-dressing, in keeping with a ruling handed down by the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ).

But while the legislative change has been welcomed by supporters, the Society Against Sexual Orientation Discrimination said steps must be taken to decriminalize same-sex intimacy.

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