Accountability Mechanisms session(March 2011)

The summary covers an audio recording from a session on accountability mechanisms at the Asia Pacific Outgames in Wellington, New Zealand. The recording, featuring Charles Chauvel and Sam McLean, delves into issues surrounding human rights, particularly in regard to the LGBTQ+ community and the impact of laws on health outcomes, specifically HIV/AIDS.

Chauvel starts the session by introducing their role on the United Nations Global Commission on HIV and the Law, tasked with examining the correlation between legal frameworks and the treatment of at-risk communities, such as sexual minorities and indigenous peoples. The commission aims to generate evidence-based reports advocating for the decriminalization of same-sex acts and the implementation of more inclusive laws to better HIV health and human rights. They touch upon the historical context of oppressive laws deriving from colonial times and how shifting towards more progressive models, like those in New Zealand, Western Europe, and Canada, can positively affect health outcomes and human rights. The commission has convened in diverse global regions to gather input for their final report, due in December, after which the challenge will be to implement recommendations, particularly in developing countries.

Sam McLean discusses the New Zealand Human Rights Commission, focusing on the role of mediation in resolving discrimination complaints based on sexual orientation and gender identity, covered under the Human Rights Act 1993. They highlight the commission's process, the voluntary nature of mediation, and the potential progression to the Human Rights Review Tribunal if mediation is unsuccessful. McLean presents various case studies showcasing discrimination and disputes related to fostering children by same-sex couples, insurance applications from transgender individuals, blood donation regulations, and workplace discrimination towards transgender persons. They also address the considerations surrounding the confidentiality of mediation processes and the influence of the Human Rights Act on legislation and policy.

The session concludes with a Q&A, touching on themes like adoption rights for transgender individuals, exemptions for faith-based organizations, and the cultural considerations in mediation practices.

This summary is created using Generative AI. Although it is based on the recording's transcription, it may contain errors or omissions. Click here to learn more about how this summary was created.

Charles Chauvel Sam McLean

2010s, activism, asia pacific outgames (2011), charles chauvel, hiv / aids, human rights, politics, sam mclean, wellington town hall, yogyakarta principles (2006)

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