Statement from the Equal Rights Coalition on the nexus between democracy and the human rights of LGBTI persons

December 10, 2021 - Ottawa, Ontario - Global Affairs Canada

On the occasion of the Summit for Democracy, the undersigned members of the Equal Rights Coalition (ERC) affirm that the revitalization of democracy within our own nations and around the world is essential to promoting and protecting human rights, especially for those most vulnerable including lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex (LGBTI) persons. Threats to the rule of law, rising levels of inequality, authoritarianism, and corruption are eroding democracy in every region, with grave consequences for LGBTI persons, among others.  Persistent criminalization of LGBTI status and ongoing violence and discrimination undermine the ability of LGBTI persons to fully participate in democratic and political processes.

Members of this Coalition affirm our interest to work together over the coming year to support and empower the participation of LGBTI persons in the full range of democratic processes, including elections; political campaigns; civil society advocacy and oversight; journalism and independent reporting; and political leadership.  We also recognize certain members of the community, such as lesbian and bisexual women, transgender and intersex individuals, and LGBTI persons who face multiple intersecting forms of discrimination, may face particular challenges as they seek to participate in political processes. We pledge to identify and respond to these challenges in close collaboration with members of the LGBTI community.

We reaffirm that open societies connect individuals to knowledge that they need to advocate and affirm their human rights.  Democratic renewal is vital for progress on human rights and ensuring the fundamental freedom of all persons, no matter who they are or whom they love.  Over the coming year and beyond, we commit to work together to promote democracy and create a world where all people are free and equal.

Signed: Albania, Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Cabo Verde, Canada, Chile, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Italy, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Mexico, The Netherlands, New Zealand, North Macedonia, Norway, Portugal, Serbia, Sweden, United Kingdom, United States, Uruguay