As we mark International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT) on May 17th 2025, we stand in solidarity with LGBTI people everywhere and reaffirm that the struggle against discrimination is a fight for the rights of all workers. This year’s theme reminds us that equality begins in our communities-and trade unions are at the heart of those communities.
In the world of work and beyond, unions play a vital role in defending dignity, inclusion and justice.
In 2025, it is more important than ever for Global Unions to lead with courage and conviction. We must continue with our commitment to responding to attacks on the LGBTI community. We cannot be complacent. If we are not actively reinforcing our values and challenging discrimination, the rights of all workers will be compromised.
In times of crisis, strength in solidarity
Developments this year have negatively impacted the LGBTI community.
The Council of Global Unions’ LGBTI committee has already condemned the attacks on equality from the Trump administration. It is unfortunately not the sole instance of backlash against LGBTI rights worldwide: Trinidad and Tobago experienced the reversal of the decriminalization ruling, Hungary saw the banning of LGBTI gatherings, and the removal of gender identity protections and the UK Supreme Court Ruling restricted the definition of women for the Equality Act. These setbacks and others worldwide will fundamentally affect the lives of the global LGBTI community.
LGBTI workers continue to fight these political developments and Global Unions highlight the need to support our trade union comrades. Solidarity and collective action will continue to build trade union power.
Celebrating the diversity of our communities
Finding a community is paramount to survival, nurturing a community is crucial to its strength. Whether it is a local community, trade union community or an LGBTI community, a safe space empowers individuals. We celebrate diversity, sharing our experiences and ideas contributes to real change. Every contribution matters and has the power to make a difference.
A call for communities and allies to drive change
Historically, community-led movements have been instrumental in supporting campaigns and improving the rights of workers worldwide. Global Unions rely on and commend their allies for their continued dedication to progress. When the far-right targets marginalized groups in society, it leaves all of us vulnerable. Protecting the rights of ALL workers is at the heart of what we do. When we stand together in solidarity, we drive change.
This year for IDAHOBIT, let's celebrate the power of our trade unions to resist anti-LGBTI attacks, support LGBTI workers and transform the movement.
Together, we will build a safe, more inclusive world of work and societies where every worker, regardlss of their sexual orientation or gender identity, is respected and protected.
Links: