Last week, a Lebanese delegation headed by Speaker of Parliament Nabih Berri voted against an international bill that seeks equality for the LGBTQI+ community.

The proposed bill titled "the role of Parliaments in ending discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity and ensuring respect for the human rights of LGBT persons" saw 636 votes against, 499 in favor, and 130 abstentions.

China and Russia were among those who voted against the bill, according to The Daily Star.

The votes were held at the 139th Inter-Parliamentary Union Assembly in Geneva, and ultimately led to the failure of the draft resolution. 

"Shame on Nabih Berri and the rest of the Lebanese delegation"

"Instead of spreading tolerance, we [continue] to reject vulnerable groups"

People were outraged over the news

Lebanon explained: "No water, no electricity, no healthcare, no gender equality, no gay rights"

"By opposing, Lebanon voted WITH discrimination based on sexual orientation"

A look at LGBTQI+ rights in Lebanon

LGBTQI+ individuals in Lebanon are sometimes prosecuted under the controversial Article 534, which says individuals who engage in sexual acts that "contradict the laws of nature" can be punished by up to one year in prison. 

However, court rulings in recent years have challenged the use of the law.

In 2017, Lebanon hosted an LGBTQI+ Pride week, in what organizers called a "first." The week-long event positioned itself as a "collaborative platform that takes a stance against hate and discrimination."

In 2018, nearly 100 candidates running for elections openly called for the decriminalization of homosexuality.