Netherlands
encourages acceptance of gays in developing nations

Dutch embassies in the 36 countries that receive development aid from the Netherlands are starting an investigation to determine the situation of their gay and lesbian citizens, Netherlands Info Services reported Thursday. The study is sponsored by labor cooperation minister Bert Koenders.

The Netherlands tries to maintain close relationships with its 36 "partner countries," encouraging them to improve human rights within their borders. In almost half of the countries, homosexuality is a criminal offense.

According to Netherlands Info Services, the study will investigate to what extent these nations criminilaize gay and lesbian behavior. The embassies will also outline the current level of social acceptance for LGBT people.

Koenders has urged the embassies to pressure local authorities to abolish criminal penalties for homosexuality, the information service reported. The Netherlands was the first country to legalize same-sex marriage, in 2001. (The Advocate)