UN body creates post on sexual orientation and gender identity

GENEVA (AP) — The U.N.'s top human rights body has decided to appoint an expert to monitor violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

In a narrow 23-18 vote with six abstentions, the Human Rights Council called for the creation of a three-year position for an independent expert to look into wrongdoing against gays, lesbians and transgender people. The expert is expected to be appointed at the next meeting of the 47-member, Geneva-based body in September.

The resolution largely rode support from Latin America and the West, while many African and Middle Eastern countries joined China voting against it.

The International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association hailed a "turning point" that will boost international scrutiny of wrongdoing against people for their sexual orientation and gender identity.

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The Gayly - 6/30/2016 @ 4:45 CDT