(j) Sexual minorities

172. The Special Representative met with lesbian, gay, transgender and bisexual organizations fighting for those who face discrimination in Colombia, i.e. members of sexual minorities, people living with HIV/AIDS and sex workers. The Colombian gay and lesbian movement has also been actively involved in campaigning for peace in Colombia’s civil war, condemning all forms of hatred and violence. In particular, the leaders of this movement have joined Planeta Paz, a peace project coordinated by community leaders and involving women’s, indigenous, peasant, youth and other social movements.

173. A few cases have been transmitted to the Special Representative. Robinson Sánchez, editor of El Otro, a publication that deals with sexuality issues and a human rights activist fighting abuses perpetrated against gay students in Medellín, has reportedly been verbally and physically abused by a security guard at the University of Antioquía, allegedly in connection with his sexual orientation and his activities as a social leader.

174. The Special Representative was also informed that sexual minorities are victims of threats and harassment particularly in the demilitarized zone.

link to full text of the Mission report: http://www.unhchr.ch/Huridocda/Huridoca.nsf/0/2718664e3817d66ac1256ba30054390f