For information only – not an official document
UNIS/SGSM/1494
14 May 2025
It is a tragic truth that violence and discrimination continue to be a part of everyday life for millions of LGBTIQ+ people around the world. They face an onslaught of hate speech, attacks, and restrictions on their rights. Meanwhile, funding cuts for critical health services and civil society organizations threaten further devastating impacts.
The theme of this year’s international day – “the power of communities” – reminds us that we are strongest together. LGBTIQ+ people, and those working with them to secure their rights, have proved time and again the value of communities in providing support and driving change.
Their example should inspire us all to come together and realize the vision of a world where every member of our human family can live a life of freedom, equality, and dignity. Working as one, we must push to repeal discriminatory laws, combat violence and harmful practices, and end the scapegoating of marginalized communities.
The United Nations is a proud partner in these efforts. We will not rest until the rights of all are a reality, no matter who they are or whom they love.
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"Working as one, we must push to repeal discriminatory laws, combat violence and harmful practices, and end the scapegoating of marginalized communities." — António Guterres
"From the telegraph to radio, from the Internet to Artificial Intelligence, technology has transformed how we live, work, and connect." — António Guterres
Barbados signed and deposited its instrument of ratification for the United Nations Convention on the International Effects of Judicial Sales of Ships (the “Beijing Convention on the Judicial Sale of Ships”) at the United Nations Headquarters in New York on 8 May 2025.
Journalists are invited to cover the 34th session of the Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice (CCPCJ) to be held from 19 to 23 May in Vienna, Austria.
