Together against the hate that divides us.

Globally, it seems we are regressing rather than progressing when it comes to the rights of LGBTQIA+ individuals.

For example, in 2023, the number of discriminatory laws against LGBTQIA+ individuals on the African continent significantly increased. Over the past year, legal systems have increasingly been used as a weapon to systematically discriminate. Repressive legislation is fueling homophobia in society. In some countries, even supporting the LGBTQIA+ movement is punishable by law.

Russia labels the entire international LGBTQIA+ community as “extremist.” Even symbols like the rainbow flag could be banned. People could face up to 10 years in prison as “organizers” of LGBTQIA+ activities, even retroactively.

Even in the Netherlands, we still have work to do: the Netherlands has once again dropped on the European ranking of LGBTQ+ rights. This is partly because there is still no ban on performing surgeries on intersex people, and transgender individuals still need a doctor’s certificate to change their gender.

Amnesty stands up for everyone who faces discrimination. We stand together against the increasing laws that discriminate against LGBTQIA+ individuals. Legislation that aims to divide us and persecute and further marginalize people who are LGBTQIA+. Legislation that divides us and tries to pit us against each other. We call on authorities to stop repressive legislation and the criminalization of LGBTQIA+ persons, and we train and support human rights advocates and other LGBTQIA+ activists who continue their work under increasingly challenging conditions.

To emphasize the necessity of coming together for human rights, Amnesty’s boat remains empty. LGBTQIA+ individuals from a growing number of countries cannot be who they want to be out of fear of persecution and violence. Even support for the LGBTQIA+ movement is punishable by law in some countries.

Amnesty is skipping the celebrations this year but urges everyone to take action for persecuted LGBTQIA+ activists.

Together against legislation that violates the human rights of LGBTQIA+ individuals!