Dominican Republic: The Constitutional Court of the Dominican Republic has made a landmark ruling, ending a ban that criminalized same-sex conduct within the country’s police department and armed forces. The decision was made public on November 18.
The court’s ruling removes penalties for same-sex conduct in the police and military, but emphasizes that officers and soldiers must still comply with labor regulations and not indulge in any romantic relationships.
This decision has been praised by human rights activists, who say “it’s a long-overdue step towards inclusivity”, while simply welcoming the decision and calling it a significant step towards equality.
Manuel Meccariello, the director of the Human Rights Observatory for Vulnerable Groups commented on this judgement as he stated that “No one should be discriminated against, not only within the ranks of the police and the armed forces.”
The ruling is seen as a major milestone for LGBT rights in the Dominican Republic, while bringing it in line with other countries in the region that have taken similar steps.
The LGBTQ+ individuals also expressed their joy and happiness over the fact that now they can also serve in the military and police forces without any fear of prosecution or disciplinary action against them for their sexual orientation or consensual conduct.
Cristian González Cabrera, senior researcher at Human Rights Watch, also commented on this ruling as he said “For decades, these strict provisions forced LGBT officers to live in fear of punishment simply for who they are.”
“This ruling is a resounding affirmation that a more inclusive future is both possible and required under Dominican law,” he further emphasised.
A spokesperson for the Ministry of Defence refused to comment on this ruling, while the National Police said it did not have immediate comment on this as well.
This judgement is gaining a lot of international support as the Human Rights Watch supported the decision, arguing that the previous ban violated international standards. Along with them conservative groups in the socially conservative country have expressed concern and disapproval over this ruling as they are worried that “This decision may bring a lot of romantic couples in the department.”
