International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia: Justice and protection, no matter whom you love

The tragic reality is that in many countries lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) people face severe discrimination. They face offensive and hateful speech. Their freedom of expression and voices are silenced. Their human rights are denied, and they often cannot even access essential services such as healthcare, education, employment and housing.

Same sex relationships are still a crime in 70 countries. In seven of these countries, it’s a crime punishable by death.

For UN Human Rights, the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia (IDAHOTB) is a chance to stand up for the ongoing injustices, and to fight against hate and bigotry.

It’s time to move forward

IDAHOTB is also a chance to celebrate progress.

We acknowledge that many steps have been taken for LGBTI rights globally.

For example, in the past year, Angola, India, Trinidad and Tobago have decriminalised same-sex relationships. Chile, Portugal, Luxembourg, Pakistan and Uruguay have made it easier for trans people to change their legal gender.

But there is still a long way to go to achieve full equality for all.

Fight the prejudice. Fight the discrimination

Our Free and Equal Campaign is marking the day - watch the video and stand in solidarity with the LGBTI community by sharing our #IDAHOTB posts on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.  

Everyone has the right to justice and protection, no matter whom they love.

 17 May 2019