LGBT rights are human rights: US President Barack Obama

Asserting that LGBT rights are human rights, US President Barack Obama on 18 May called for ending discrimination against the community globally. "Our nation is committed to the principle that all people should be treated fairly and with respect," the US President said in a statement on the occasion of International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia.

"Advancing this goal has long been a cornerstone of American diplomacy, and I am proud that my administration has made advancing the human rights of LGBT individuals a specific focus of our engagement around the world," he said.

He also lauded the efforts the US has made in recent years in marriage equality of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender community.

"I am also proud of the great strides our nation has made at home in recent years, including that we now have marriage equality as a result of last years landmark Supreme Court decision," he added.

At the same time, there is much work to be done to combat homophobia and transphobia, both at home and abroad, Obama said.

"In too many places, LGBT individuals grow up forced to conceal or deny who they truly are for fear of persecution, discrimination, and violence. All nations and all communities can, and must, do better," he noted.

"Fortunately, human rights champions and good citizens around the world continue to strive towards this goal every day by lifting up the simple truth that LGBT rights are human rights. The US honours their work and will continue to support them in their struggle for human dignity," Obama said.

-PTI