"The Commission has been lobbying government to look into the possibility of enacting Hate Crimes legislation and is pleased that government has set up a task team to deliberate on this matter.
"The Commission is pleased that the UN has firmly placed on its agenda issues relating to the rights of LGBTI (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and inter-sexed)," said spokesman Vincent Moagi said in a statement.
The UNHRC's resolution, which the commission described as "historic", not only affirms the universality of human rights but also notes concern about acts of violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
It gives an international foundation for protection to one of the world's most vulnerable minorities and requests the High Commissioner for Human Rights to prepare a study on violence and discrimination on these grounds.
"The resolution also calls for a panel discussion to be held at the Human Rights Council to discuss the findings of the study in a constructive and transparent manner, and to consider appropriate follow-up," said Moagi.
The government's stance follows the intervention by the Commission in conjunction with civil society organisations and the department of international relations.
Moagi said concerns remained about the recent reports of escalation of violence against lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and inter-sexed people in South Africa and on the continent.
He said many lived in continual fear of violent attacks and experienced discrimination.
Moagi hoped the resolution would provide an international foundation for the protection of such persons.
Just R20 for the first month. Support independent journalism by subscribing to our digital news package. 
