The transgender rights deficit
Across Europe transgender rights lag behind those of other groups. We're working to change that
* Thomas Hammarberg
* guardian.co.uk, Saturday 5 September 2009 09.00 BST
http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/2009/sep/05/transgender-human-rights-europe (http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/2009/sep/05/transgender-human-rights-europe)
The human rights situation of transgender persons has long been ignored and neglected, although the problems they face are serious and often specific to this group alone. Transgender people experience a high degree of discrimination, intolerance and outright violence. Their basic human rights are often violated, including the right to life, the right to physical integrity and the right to health.
During my official visits to the 47 member States of the Council of Europe, I have been struck by the lack of knowledge about the human rights issues at stake for transgender persons, even among political decision-makers.