Ottawa, June 28, 2025 – In a strong show of solidarity, the foreign ministers of Canada and ten other nations have issued a joint statement on International LGBTQI+ Pride Day 2025, reaffirming their commitment to ending discrimination against lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer individuals worldwide.
The statement, signed by the Foreign Ministers of Canada, Spain, Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Cape Verde, Chile, Colombia, Iceland, Ireland, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Slovenia, and Uruguay, emphasizes the importance of protecting human rights and promoting equality for all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Rejection of Violence and Discrimination
The foreign ministers reject “all forms of violence, criminalization, stigmatization or discrimination” that target LGBTQI+ people, which constitute “human rights violations.” They also call on all states to join them in their efforts to combat hate speech, harassment, and discrimination against LGBTQI+ individuals.
Intersectional Approach
The statement highlights the need for an intersectional approach to address the multiple forms of discrimination faced by LGBTQI+ people, particularly when they belong to other marginalized groups such as indigenous peoples, afro-descendants, people with disabilities, migrants, elderly people, or those living in poverty.
Call to Action
The foreign ministers call on all states to “repeal discriminatory laws” and refuse to adopt new laws that criminalize same-sex relations. They also urge an end to the prosecution of LGBTQI+ individuals, especially those subject to imprisonment or capital punishment. Furthermore, they condemn “conversion therapy” practices that aim to change a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity.
Commitment to Human Rights
The statement concludes by reasserting the commitment of public authorities to implement policies that pursue equality for LGBTQI+ people and combat all forms of discrimination. The foreign ministers celebrate sexual diversity and family diversity, recognizing that inclusive and equitable societies are stronger, healthier, and more resilient.
Global Coalition
The joint statement marks a significant development in the global fight against LGBTQI+ discrimination. By joining forces with ten other nations, Canada has demonstrated its commitment to promoting human rights and dignity for all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
This solidarity is a step towards creating a more just and equitable world, where everyone can live and love without fear of persecution or discrimination.