The United Nations Human Rights Council has reaffirmed its commitment to addressing violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity by renewing the mandate of the Independent Expert. The resolution, passed during the Council’s 59th session, received support from 29 nations, with 15 opposing and 3 abstaining. This action underscores a continued adherence to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights’ principle that all individuals are entitled to freedom and equal rights.
The role of the Independent Expert on SOGI, established in 2016, focuses on mitigating global discrimination and violence targeting LGBTQ+ communities. Graeme Reid, a South African scholar with substantial expertise in LGBTQ+ issues, particularly through his previous tenure at Human Rights Watch, currently holds the mandate.
Julia Ehrt, Executive Director of the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association (ILGA World), commented that the renewal of this mandate provides hope amid international efforts to reverse progress on LGBTQ+ rights (ILGA World statement).
The international landscape highlights contrasting approaches, particularly with the United States’ recent stance under the Trump Administration. The US withdrew from the Human Rights Council amidst domestic policies that have raised concerns about the impact of restrictions on gender-affirming care. The Independent Expert on SOGI has urged a rights-based approach to such care in response to this legal environment.
Before the Council’s session, Human Rights Watch and ILGA World took proactive steps by calling for the renewal of the mandate. They emphasized the importance of continuing focused efforts to confront human rights violations against LGBTQ+ populations across the globe (JURIST report). These advocacy groups highlighted that sustained attention and systematic intervention are vital to addressing global inequalities concerning sexual orientation and gender identity.