Egypt sentences 14 gay men
In the midst of a crackdown on gay citizens, an Egyptian court has sentenced 14 men to three years in prison for “abnormal” sexual relations. Homosexuality is not explicitly illegal in Egypt, but since September the government has stepped up legal assaults on the community. [Agence France-Presse]
Istanbul bans gay film screening
The district of Istanbul, Turkey’s largest city, has banned the screening of an LGBT film, citing “public safety.” Last week, the country’s capital Ankara also banned any LGBT-themed events. [Reuters]
Hong Kong meets lukewarm government policy with colourful protest
An estimated 100,000 people showed up in Hong Kong to call for more recognition of gay rights and relationships, in the face of government ambivalence. [South China Morning Post]
India’s gay resurgence
After a landmark court ruling this summer, India’s long-suffering LGBT movement is having a comeback. And more legal reform may be right around the corner. [The New York Times]
Japanese politicians argue over gay banquet protocol
Two members of Japan’s ruling Liberal Democratic Party have publicly disagreed over whether the same-sex partners of state guests should be invited to banquets with the emperor. [The Mainichi]
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