SOLOMON Islands must consider its culture and Christian values when addressing issues relating to LGBTQIA+ people, says Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele.
His remarks follow an ABC report highlighting findings from a new study which claims Solomon Islands is failing to fully meet its human rights obligations for people with diverse sexual orientations and gender identities under both domestic and international law.
The report comes as the country prepares for its Universal Periodic Review (UPR) — a process established by the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) to review the human rights records of all UN member states.
Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, Prime Minister Manele described the matter as an important issue that touches on human rights, but one that must be viewed through the lens of the nation’s culture and Christian faith.
“This is a very important issue that borders on human rights,” Mr Manele said.
“Of course, human and individual rights are important. But how these rights are expressed within the context of any country must be looked at from different perspectives — with cultural sensitivity, context, and our Christian faith, moral values, and principles that we want our country to follow.”
He said while the issue can and should be discussed openly, the Government must be given time and space to consider it carefully from various angles, keeping in mind the nation’s values and beliefs.
Attorney General John Muria Junior also commented, noting that the country’s Constitution defines legal rights in relation to “man and woman.”
He explained that the Constitution incorporates legislation, common law, and customary law, and when these are taken together, “you will know the answer.”
By EDDIE OSIFELO
Solomon Star, Honiara
