Independent Expert on sexual orientation and gender identity

Independent Expert on protection against violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity

Purpose of the mandate

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights states that all human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights, without distinction of any kind. Yet in all regions of the world, there are acts of violence and discrimination committed against individuals because of their sexual orientation or gender identity.  

To address this concern, the UN Human Rights Council created the mandate of Independent Expert on protection against violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity (also referred to as the Independent Expert on sexual orientation and gender identity, or the "IE SOGI").  

About the mandate

Created through Human Rights Council resolution 32/2 in June 2016 for an initial period of three years, the mandate was renewed in June 2019 under resolution 41/18 and in July 2022 under resolution 50/10.

Learn more about the mandate

Current mandate holder

Graeme Reid In late 2023, the United Nations Human Rights Council appointed Mr. Graeme Reid as UN Independent Expert on Protection against violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity for a three-year period starting on 1 November 2023. In this capacity, he assesses the implementation of international human rights law, raises awareness, engages in dialogue with all relevant stakeholders, and provides advisory services, technical assistance, capacity-building to help address violence and discrimination against persons on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity.

Read Graeme Reid’s full biography