IDAHOBIT 2026: “At the heart of democracy”

Geneva, 18 November 2025 – The theme for the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia (IDAHOBIT) 2026 will be “At the heart of democracy,” the global IDAHOBIT Advisory Committee announced today.

Developed through extensive consultations with regional and global LGBTQIA+ networks worldwide, the 2026 IDAHOBIT theme serves as a powerful reminder that the soil of truly democratic societies must be rich in meaningful equity and justice for all, fostering the flourishing of the entire community.

Observed annually on 17 May, IDAHOBIT commemorates the 1990 decision by the World Health Organization to remove homosexuality from its International Classification of Diseases.

First celebrated in 2005, the Day has grown into a truly global community moment. Every year, individuals, organisations, and governments celebrate the day with initiatives, events, and campaigns in solidarity with LGBTQIA+ people, demanding action to ensure they can exercise their rights.

No matter where we live, who we are, or the faiths that drive us, most people want to nurture neighbourhoods and communities where every life can flourish. But today, reactionary governments worldwide are poisoning our gardens with the invasive weeds of their authoritarian policies and exclusionary legislations.

Time and again, LGBTQIA+ people have resisted these pests, rolled up their sleeves together with all the good people caring about their communities, and sowed the seeds of change.  On IDAHOBIT 2026, and every day, you are invited to join in — at the heart of democracy: together, we can prepare the ground for a better future for everyone.

IDAHOBIT is a shared moment for communities and allies to cultivate change in ways that reflect local soils, climates, and traditions. Whether planting a community mural in Buenos Aires, hosting a virtual town‑hall in Nairobi, or organising a legislative lobby day in Strasbourg, every initiative — no matter how big or small — adds nutrients to the democratic garden.

• Share the theme: let the world know that we will be celebrating “At the heart of democracy” this #IDAHOBIT2026!
• Plant local actions: Organise workshops, events, policy briefings, campaigns, awareness initiatives and more: show how ensuring that  LGBTQIA+ people can exercise their rights is the right thing to do to build more rooted societies
• Register your initiative – Head to may17.org and let the world know about your plans: join the global map of actions and inspire others to sow seeds of change
• Support the harvest – Donate to LGBTQIA+ and partner organisations that provide legal aid, advocacy, and support services for communities facing repression.