UN head Ban Ki-moon hails ‘historic’ victory for equality in Ireland
UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon has praised Ireland, for becoming the first country to pass same-sex marriage by popular vote.
The United Nations head spoke out after the landslide victory in the Republic of Ireland over the weekend – with 62.1% percent voting in favour of same-sex marriage and just 37.9% percent voting against.
The country will now move to allow all couples to marry, affirming: “Marriage may be contracted in accordance with law by two persons without distinction as to their sex.”
Ban Ki-moon, who has spoken out a number of times on equality issues as head of the United Nations, praised the result.
He said on a visit to Ireland: “Ireland is also a strong proponent of human rights. We saw this commitment yet again with Friday’s referendum.
“This is a truly historic moment: Ireland has become the first country in the world to approve marriage equality in a nationwide referendum.
“The result sends an important message to the world: All people are entitled to enjoy their human rights no matter who they are or whom they love.”
Earlier this month, he made an appearance as an ally in a United Nations video marking the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia.
The Secretary General also invited drag artist Conchita Wurst to perform at the UN last year, and appeared next to her as she spoke about tolerance.
However, the UN is not always praised on LGBT rights – with former Ugandan Minister Sam Kutesa elected as President of the UN General Assembly last year despite supporting his country’s anti-gay policies.
