Top of the Morning: Nigeria Parliament Passes anti Gay Bill

Top stories from DAWNS Digest

Nigerian Parliament Passes Anti-Gay Bill

Africa’s most populous country may become a little more regressive. The bill now sits on the President’s desk, and it’s unclear whether or not he will sign it. “Gay or lesbian couples who marry could face up to 14 years each in prison. Witnesses or anyone who helps couples marry could be sentenced to 10 years behind bars. Anyone taking part in a group advocating for gay rights or anyone caught in a ‘public show’ of affection also would face 10 years in prison if convicted by a criminal court.” (WaPo http://wapo.st/12RkJ8H)

US Labor Groups May Upend Bangladesh Garment Industry

The US Labor Department wants to end Bangladesh’s favored status, but the State Department is pushing back in a battle that could have huge consequences in Dhaka. “Bangladesh is among more than 125 countries that receive breaks on United States tariffs under a World Trade Organization program known as the Generalized System of Preferences, intended to promote economic growth around the globe. The United States trade representative is scheduled to decide the fate of the country’s trade status in June.” (NYTimes http://nyti.ms/12kDBlv)