Report of the Conference
3. Structure and themes
of the Conference
In order to maximise the positive interactions and debate among the participants, the Conference followed
a thematic approach to issues related to the Yogyakarta Principles, their application and experiences of
the LGBTI community. Thus, the themes of discussion focused on understanding and deriving lessons
from the past, and reflecting on the current status and developing plans of action for the future.
3.1. PAST
This theme invited participants to reflect on the origins of the Yogyakarta Principles, and the factors that
contributed to their development and application over the past ten years.
Key focus areas/sub-themes
• What factors contributed to the emergence of the Principles?
• What considerations shaped the nature and content of the Principles?
• How have the Yogyakarta Principles been used at the country level over the past 10 years to promote
and protect the rights of LGBTI people?
3.2. PRESENT
This theme provided an opportunity for NGOs, CBOs, NHRIs and UN agencies to provide practical
case studies (global, regional, national) of how they have used the principles in a variety of contexts,
including advocacy, public education, litigation and the international human rights framework. It also
invites participants to identify and explore the current barriers and challenges they encounter in using the
principles and identify the shortcomings of the principles in responding to contemporary and emerging
human rights issues for LGBTI people.
Key focus areas/sub-themes
• How are the Principles being used today?
• What challenges and barriers are encountered in using the Yogyakarta Principles?
• What are the limitations of the Yogyakarta Principles in responding to existing and emerging human
rights issues? These may include:
–– intersex status and sex characteristics
–– gender identity and expression
–– marriage and family
–– LGBTI children
–– obligations of non-state actors.
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