Human Rights and Democracy - Official Documents

Minorities and other discriminated groups
Homosexuality remains illegal in Zimbabwe. Two officers of Gays and Lesbians of
Zimbabwe were charged with possessing drugs and prohibited publications after a
raid on their offices in May. They were held in police custody for longer than the 48
hours permitted by Zimbabwean law before appearing in court. Both officers were
eventually acquitted. Generally, however, the state prefers to turn a blind eye to the
LGBT community.
Other issues: Farmers
More than 200 commercial famers continued to face prosecution, intimidation and
harassment as they fought to remain on their farms in 2010. Farm evictions
continued, often accompanied by violence and looting of property. The evictions
contravene the terms of the Global Political Agreement, as well as the Southern
African Development Community ruling of November 2008 and deter investors just
when Zimbabwe wishes to rebuild its economy. Farm workers and farm owners
have been displaced and we have worked with organisations to re-skill 600 women,
many of whom are displaced ex-farm workers who have become marginalised. We
will continue to make clear our concerns to the government of Zimbabwe and our
support for a fair and transparent process of land reform in favour of the poorer
sectors of the community.
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