As delivered by Political Counselor Michael Kelleher to the Permanent Council, Vienna | October 16, 2014
The United States is deeply concerned that the Parliament of the Kyrgyz Republic is actively considering legislation on non-traditional relations. Modeled after a similar law in the Russian Federation, this legislation would dramatically restrict freedom of expression and association by placing criminal penalties on anyone deemed responsible for public messages that promote the formation of a “positive attitude towards non-traditional sexual relations.” This legislation contradicts some of the most basic commitments we have made as OSCE participating States, and threatens the rights of all citizens of the Kyrgyz Republic.
Mr. Chairman, the United States urges the Parliament of the Kyrgyz Republic to reject this odious legislation. We urge the Kyrgyz Parliament not to undermine its country’s deserved international reputation for tolerance. We call on Kyrgyzstan to uphold its OSCE commitments to freedom of expression and association.
Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
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