Gender Equality and LGBTIQ+ Equality

Around the world, lesbian, gay, bi, trans, intersex and queer (LGBTIQ+) people continue to face widespread stigma, exclusion and discrimination. UN Human Rights works to end discrimination and promote the human rights of LGBTIQ+ people by raising concerns with governments and recommending reforms in line with international human rights standards, monitoring and exposing human rights violations affecting LGBTIQ+ persons, and engaging in public advocacy. The Office also leads the UN Free & Equal campaign, which raises awareness and builds support for equal rights and fair treatment of LGBTIQ+ people worldwide, including through national campaigns in more than 40 countries. The Office works with the private sector and UN partners to counter discrimination and violence, supports and collaborates with Special Procedures mandates and UN Treaty Bodies on LGBTIQ+ issues, and builds the capacity of UN staff on the rights and concerns of LGBTIQ+ people. UN Human Rights is committed to working with States, national human rights institutions, civil society and other stakeholders worldwide to reform discriminatory laws and policies in line with international human rights law, transform harmful gender stereotypes and discriminatory social norms, eliminate gender-based violence, guarantee sexual and reproductive health and rights for all, protect and expand the civic space of women human rights defenders and feminist movements, facilitate equal participation of women, men and people of diverse gender identities in all areas of life, and ensure gender equality in the Office.