Center for Liberal Leadership

By Jeroen Mimpen & Anita Vink, Jonge Democraten, The Netherlands

Lesbians, gays, bisexuals and transsexuals (LGBTs) are an oppressed minority in many societies, who face cultural, social, political and legal barriers to fully expressing themselves. One of the main liberal challenges for the 21st century is to fight homophobia and promote equal rights for all sexual orientations. This article elaborates on the current state of affairs in a number of countries and contemplates on the possibilities to address LGBT rights from an international perspective. Should we adhere to idealism or pragmatism, or can we combine both? And what means are most effective in addressing this issue? These and other questions are explored below.

The liberal position
From a liberal point of view, it is a shame that LGBT rights are still an issue in the world, since everyone has the right to be treated equally, as long as a person does not damage the general welfare or the wellbeing of others. Moreover, liberals have a strong belief in the right of every person to express and develop their identities to the fullest. The conviction of many authorities and governments that they can decide how the personal life of their citizens should be shaped, is an intolerable concept for any liberal thinker. Read more..