Session
Source of Reference
State under Review
Recommendation
Review the Children Act of 2012 in order to decriminalize consensual sexual relations between minors of the same sex.
Explanation
Noted.
The Government of Trinidad and Tobago ultimately seeks to recognise the human rights of all citizens, which includes the Lesbian, Gay, Bi-Sexual, Transgendered and Intersexed (LGBTI) community. The development of law is a dynamic process which adapts to the development of any given society. The issue of discrimination based on sexual orientation is one which remains a matter of concern in the forefront of the mind of the GOTT. Trinidad and Tobago is seen as a leader in the region in relation to the manner in which it addresses the changing needs of its population.
The HIV/AIDS high risk groups including the LGBTI community have been recognized in the National Workplace Policy on HIV/AIDS. This policy contributes to ongoing national efforts to decrease the spread of HIV/AIDS and to mitigate its impact. It does so by setting standards for managing HIV in the workplace and promoting structures and programmes to reduce discrimination.
With regard to cases of violence against a member of the LGBTI community, Section 4 of the Constitution enshrines fundamental human rights and freedoms, namely, the right of the individual to life, liberty and security of the person. Every person has the right to equality before and protection of the law. A person also has the right to respect for his private and family life. The exercise of these rights is guaranteed free from discrimination based on race, origin, colour or sex.
With particular reference to violence against the LGBTI community, the definition of rape in the Sexual Offences Act, 1986 was amended by Act 31 of 2000 to reflect a gender neutral position with regard to the complainant and the victim. This amendment serves to include protection for victims of violence in same sex relationships.
The Government of Trinidad and Tobago ultimately seeks to recognise the human rights of all citizens, which includes the Lesbian, Gay, Bi-Sexual, Transgendered and Intersexed (LGBTI) community. The development of law is a dynamic process which adapts to the development of any given society. The issue of discrimination based on sexual orientation is one which remains a matter of concern in the forefront of the mind of the GOTT. Trinidad and Tobago is seen as a leader in the region in relation to the manner in which it addresses the changing needs of its population.
The HIV/AIDS high risk groups including the LGBTI community have been recognized in the National Workplace Policy on HIV/AIDS. This policy contributes to ongoing national efforts to decrease the spread of HIV/AIDS and to mitigate its impact. It does so by setting standards for managing HIV in the workplace and promoting structures and programmes to reduce discrimination.
With regard to cases of violence against a member of the LGBTI community, Section 4 of the Constitution enshrines fundamental human rights and freedoms, namely, the right of the individual to life, liberty and security of the person. Every person has the right to equality before and protection of the law. A person also has the right to respect for his private and family life. The exercise of these rights is guaranteed free from discrimination based on race, origin, colour or sex.
With particular reference to violence against the LGBTI community, the definition of rape in the Sexual Offences Act, 1986 was amended by Act 31 of 2000 to reflect a gender neutral position with regard to the complainant and the victim. This amendment serves to include protection for victims of violence in same sex relationships.
Reference type
Response