– This is important in our international work for human rights. But we still have a long way to go to stop the discrimination, violence and persecution based on sexual orientation and gender identity, says Foreign Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.
In the frame of the support declaration, the government doubled the financial aid to the National Association for lesbians, gays, bisexuals and transgender persons (LLH). Støre pointed out that sexual orientation is a sensitive issue in many countries and they will continue to support LLH because they have good knowledge of the challenges in this issue. They do a good and important job, says Environment and Development Minister Erik Solheim.
LLH's international work reaches to NOK 2.7 million. A total of Norway supports the work for the rights of sexual minorities is NOK 11 million. Effort is directed towards Norwegian and foreign organizations working on human rights in individual countries and in international arena.
– Benefit from Norway for the last four years has already affected the lives of lesbians, gays, bisexuals and transgender persons in all continents. It is our duty and pleasure to support them, says Solheim.