Gambian president Yahya Jammeh is relishing his newfound recognition as Africa's most antigay head of state, taking a pass on millions in foreign aid in order to keep his new 'jail the gays' law.
 

US ambassador John Berry says the two countries have achieved great advances for their LGBT communities. "We do not have to accept this, the world can fight homophobia," Berry said in a video filmed for samesame.com.au and released on the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia. "It is so important because we need to communicate to our brothers and sisters who are in less fortunate places that we have not forgotten them, that we stand together, that gay rights are human rights and both the US and Australia will stand to protect them."

Foreign Secretary William Hague said: "Human rights are universal and apply equally to all people everywhere. The Government is proud to stand up for the rights of LGBT people. We will continue to do so across the world over the coming year, raising LGBT rights in international meetings and through our diplomatic missions around the globe, and maintaining our strong support for the UN’s Free and Equal Campaign."

Russia is prepared to open its arms to athletes from around the world to compete in the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics – as long as they leave their rainbow flags at home. If there were any doubt about how the country’s new “gay propaganda” law would affect athletes and others attending in February, Sports Minister Vitaly Mutko made clear the government’s true position today. Visitors will be accountable under the restrictions banning any positive information and communication to children about “nontraditional sexual relationships.”