Ottawa, May 17, 2025 – In a statement issued today, Global Affairs Canada reaffirmed its commitment to advancing human rights and inclusion for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and other sexually- and gender-diverse individuals worldwide.
The International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality faced by these communities. According to recent estimates, nearly 1 in 5 LGBTQ+ individuals experience hate-motivated violence globally, with many facing significant barriers to accessing essential services such as healthcare and education.
Canada stands in solidarity with Two-Spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and other sexually- and gender-diverse individuals worldwide. The country’s support for these communities is unwavering, and it has been a cornerstone of Canada’s foreign policy since its inception.
This year’s theme, “The Power of Communities,” highlights the strength, resilience, and unity of 2SLGBTQI+ communities in their quest for equality. Global Affairs Canada acknowledges the hard-earned progress made towards this goal, including the World Health Organization’s decision in 1990 to declassify homosexuality as a mental disorder.
However, despite these advances, significant challenges remain. Discrimination and violence against LGBTQ+ individuals persist globally, with many facing social, economic, and institutional barriers to accessing their rights.
Canada is committed to advancing human rights and inclusion for 2SLGBTQI+ people through international engagement. The country will continue to support courageous NGOs, human rights defenders, and advocates working tirelessly to protect fundamental human rights and freedoms, often at great personal risk.
By standing in solidarity with these communities, Canada demonstrates its commitment to a world where all individuals can live with dignity and respect for their sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.
The International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia serves as a critical reminder of the importance of promoting inclusivity and acceptance. As we reflect on this day, we are reminded of the power of communities coming together to demand justice and equality for all.
Canada’s commitment to advancing human rights and inclusion for 2SLGBTQI+ individuals is unwavering. By standing in solidarity with these communities, Canada demonstrates its commitment to a world where all individuals can live with dignity and respect for their sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.
The progress made towards equality has been significant, but there is still much work to be done. Canada will continue to support the efforts of courageous NGOs, human rights defenders, and advocates working tirelessly to protect fundamental human rights and freedoms.
Conclusion
Canada’s commitment to advancing human rights and inclusion for 2SLGBTQI+ individuals is a cornerstone of its foreign policy. On this International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia, Canada stands in solidarity with these communities, reaffirming its unwavering support for their struggle for equality and dignity.