A regional coalition representing lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, transsexual, intersex and other gender-diverse (LGBTI+) organisations, along with sex workers’ groups, has urged member states of the Organisation of American States (OAS) to strengthen human rights protections and reinforce support for the Inter-American Human Rights System following the conclusion of the body’s 56th General Assembly in Panama City.

The Coalition of LGBTTTI Organisations and Sex Workers of the Americas, which includes SASOD Guyana among its 76 member organisations from 31 countries and regional networks, said it played an active role during the June 22-24 meeting by advancing the concerns of LGBTI+ communities and sex workers while engaging regional leaders on issues affecting human rights across the hemisphere.

The coalition also convened its annual meeting, bringing together 57 activists from 26 countries to discuss strategies aimed at advancing equality, protecting democracy and defending the Inter-American Human Rights System, which it described as a cornerstone of human rights protection in the region.