On eve of Sochi Games, UN chief denounces attacks on gays
Ban Ki-moon points to Olympic Charter's opposition to discrimination
UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon condemned attacks and discrimination against homosexuals yesterday, touching on the gay rights issue in Russia that has overshadowed preparations for the Sochi Olympics.
In a speech to the International Olympic Committee a day before the opening of the Games, Ban also reiterated his call for warring parties around the world to lay down their arms during the Olympics.
Ban said many professional athletes, gay and straight, are speaking out against prejudice and discrimination.
"We must all raise our voices against attacks on lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or intersex people," said Ban (pictured). "We must oppose the arrests, imprisonments and discriminatory restrictions they face."
Ban's remarks come at a time when activists and protesters have stepped up their campaign against Russia's law restricting gay rights activities.
Human Rights Watch posted a video this week on YouTube of gay people in Russia being bullied, chased and beaten, compiled from footage the group said was uploaded by perpetrators.