Advocacy groups: Ethiopian government’s anti-gay rhetoric spurs online attacks
Advocacy groups in Ethiopia have sharply criticized government institutions for homophobic statements they say have spurred online attacks against LGBTQ and intersex people.
The Addis Ababa Culture, Arts and Tourism Bureau on Aug. 5 released a statement that condemned acts of same-sex relations. The statement cited reports of people engaging in same-sex relations, including public displays of affection, at restaurants and hotels in Addis Ababa, the country’s capital.
The Addis Ababa Culture, Arts and Tourism Bureau reiterated consensual same-sex sexual relations violate the country’s cultural values and the majority of Ethiopians find them disrespectful.
Ethiopian police also urged members of the public to report anyone who engages in same-sex relations, citing they go against social values.
