New Websitew Gives LGBT Travellers Vital Local Knowledge
February 23, 2010
BT teams up with ILGA to launch interactive map of the world.
BT and ILGA (International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association) have today revolutionised the way lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex travellers navigate the globe, with a brand new, interactive map of the world. Launching during LGBT History Month, the online resource (http://ilga.org/) provides important information on policies, laws, and resources as well as anecdotal accounts in relation to sexual orientation in countries across the globe.
The first of its kind, the website allows members to learn about crucial laws governing areas such as marriage, adoption, health and relationships, as well as learn about the social climate of a country at any given time. The portal also provides a forum for travellers and residents to share personal experiences of living in a country.
With 80 countries in the world today still criminalising same sex relationships between consenting adults, including some countries applying penalties such as imprisonment and even the death sentence, BT and ILGA are working to ensure an easy and safe passage through the world for LGBTI travellers.
Renato Sabbadini, Secretary General ILGA, said: “We are very proud of our partnership with BT, which has resulted in the creation of this website. Thanks to the combined know-how of both our organisations, we now have an eye-catching and user-friendly tool which will serve both the needs of BT in providing a reliable source of information for its employees, and of ILGA to reach out to its membership and the general public in an informative and direct way. The website is a clearing house of vital information which is both reliable and unique”.
In July 2009 BT Group was named as the most gay friendly corporation in the world by the International Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (IGLCC). The partnership with and creation of the ILGA website continues this commitment to equality for LGBTI staff in the work place.
Caroline Waters, Director, People and Policy, BT group said: “LGBTI laws and practices vary dramatically across the world. For an international company like BT, which employs over 100,000 people in 63 countries and has operations in 170, this tool is an important source of information for our employees as well as a significant enhancement to our people and policy portfolio. Both local employees and those who travel on business or just as tourists will be provided with important information. We hope that other employers will follow our lead and make sure that their people are at least aware of risks they may face.”
Enquiries about this news release should be made to the BT Group Newsroom on its 24-hour number: 020 7356 5369. From outside the UK dial + 44 20 7356 5369. All news releases can be accessed at our web site: http://www.bt.com/newscentre
