“The decision to establish an Independent Expert for LGBTQ rights is a significant milestone in the global effort for LGBTQ equality,” said Ty Cobb, Director of HRC Global. “This new UN role will reinforce and institutionalize a commitment to combating discrimination and violence based on sexual orientation and gender identity wherever it occurs.  All LGBTQ people, regardless of where they live, will soon have a dedicated watchdog at the United Nations looking out for their rights, interests, and lives.”

“HRC commends the governments and LGBTQ activities and allies from around the world that came together to create this potentially life-saving position,” Cobb continued.

A plurality of countries on the 47-member UN Human Rights Council voted in favor of the resolution creating the new office, with support from diverse regions of the world.  Independent experts have been referred to as the “crown jewel” of the UN’s human rights’ system. This dedicated expert will assess the state of LGBTQ human rights, liaise with LGBTQ advocates and allies around the world, and engage with governments and civil society to make recommendations for combating violence and discrimination against LGBTQ people. In addition, they will be a bridge between the UN Human Rights Council and the organization’s General Assembly, and be empowered to issue private communications to governments, including in emergency situations.

Learn more about HRC Global’s work to promote LGBTQ equality around world here.

The Human Rights Campaign is the United States’ largest civil rights organization working to achieve lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer equality. HRC envisions a world where LGBTQ people are embraced as full members of society at home, at work, and in every community.

###