IDAHOBIT 2026: LGBTI+ Rights, Security and the Changing Global Landscape
2026-05-14 15:00 - 17:00 (Europe/London) | Canada House, 📍 Trafalgar Square, London, SW1Y 5BJ, London, SW1Y 5BJ, United Kingdom
Kaleidoscope Trust and the High Commission of Canada in the United Kingdom
invite you to attend an event and public discussion:
“LGBTI+ Rights, Security and the Changing Global Landscape”
Against a backdrop of multilateral retreat, geopolitical instability and democratic backsliding, the panel will examine why LGBTI+ rights are not a peripheral ‘social’ concern but a strategic component of economic security, democratic resilience and the international rule-based order. We will draw out how attacks on gender equality and SOGI rights are increasingly weaponised by authoritarian movements, and what like-minded governments, diplomats and civil society can do in response.
Panel:
– Helen Kennedy, Executive Director, Egale Canada
– Ken Janssens, Chief Executive Officer, Open for Business
– Ruslan Savolainen, LGBTI+ Activist, forced to leave Russia to continue his work
– moderation: Stelios Foteinopoulos, International Policy and Advocacy Manager, Kaleidoscope Trust
⏱️ Thursday, 14 May 2026
📍 Trafalgar Square, London, SW1Y 5BJ.
Panel discussion: 3:00pm – 5:00pm
Networking reception: 5:00pm – 6:00pm
Please RSVP by email via: CanadaTrafalgarSquare@international.gc.ca or by clicking on the button at the end of this email.

The Human Rights Situation of LGBT+ People in Armenia: 2025 Annual Report
2026-05-15 | Armenia, Armenia
On May 15, 2026, Pink Human Rights Defender NGO will publish the 2025 Annual Report on the Human Rights Situation of LGBT+ People in Armenia. The report documents cases of discrimination, violence, hate speech, and other human rights violations faced by LGBT+ individuals throughout the year, while also addressing ongoing legal and social challenges. The publication aims to raise awareness about the realities faced by LGBT+ people in Armenia and encourage discussions on equality, dignity, and the need for stronger protection mechanisms.

IDAHOBIT 2026: “At the Heart of Democracy” – The Journey from Amsterdam to Bangkok
2026-05-15 - 2026-05-17 | Siam Paragon, Bangkok, Thailand
The Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, in collaboration with APCOM Foundation, Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), Bangkok Pride, GIRLxGIRL, SCBX Next Tech, Baturu, and the Rights and Liberty Protection Department, today officially launched IDAHOBIT 2026: “At the Heart of Democracy” – The Journey from Amsterdam to Bangkok.
This landmark initiative highlights the global journey toward equality and inclusion, connecting Amsterdam and Bangkok through a shared commitment to human rights, dignity, and diversity.
The programme will take place from 15–18 May 2026 at SCBX Next Tech, 4th Floor, Siam Paragon, Bangkok.
The event comes at a significant moment as Thailand marks the first anniversary of its Marriage Equality Law, becoming the first country in Southeast Asia to legalize same-sex marriage, while the Netherlands continues its global leadership as the first country in the world to have done so in 2001.
As part of the programme, the Embassy of the Netherlands will present the internationally renowned Amsterdam Rainbow Dress, a powerful 16-metre-wide artwork made from the flags of more than 60 countries where homosexuality remains criminalized. The installation serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by LGBTQI communities worldwide.
APCOM Foundation will also showcase the 10th anniversary of the HERO Awards, highlighting outstanding HIV and LGBTQI advocates across Asia and the Pacific through a photo exhibition and regional dialogues, including voices from countries where LGBTQI people continue to face criminalization.

APCOM IDAHOBIT 2026
2026-05-15 - 2026-05-18 | Siam Paragon, Bangkok, Thailand
APCOM will be organizing IDAHOBIT 2026 from 15–18 May 2026 at SCBX NEXT Tech, 4th floor, Siam Paragon. Under the theme “At the Heart of Democracy”, the event will bring together diverse stakeholders from across the region—including civil society, development partners, and the private sector—to engage in dialogues, showcase creative expressions, and strengthen collaboration in advancing LGBTQI+ rights, inclusion, and human rights.

OUTBermuda IDAHOBIT Observance
2026-05-15 12:30 - 13:00 (Atlantic/Bermuda) | City Hall Bermuda, 17 Church Street, City of Hamilton, Bermuda, HM11, Bermuda
OUTBermuda IDAHOBIT Observance
International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia
Friday, May 15 | 12:30 p.m. to 1:00 p.m | Steps of City Hall
OUTBermuda invites members of Bermuda’s LGBTQ+ community, allies, nonprofit leaders, political leaders, business leaders, faith leaders, families, friends, and members of the public to join us for Bermuda’s first public observance of IDAHOBIT.
IDAHOBIT stands for the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia. It is marked around the world each year on May 17 as a day of action, awareness, solidarity, and visibility for LGBTQIA+ people.
The date recognizes the World Health Organization’s May 17, 1990 decision to remove homosexuality from the International Classification of Diseases. You can learn more about the international day at may17.org.
Although IDAHOBIT is observed globally, this will be the first time Bermuda publicly marks the day in this way.
We are doing this because LGBTQ+ Bermudians and residents still face harm caused by homophobia, biphobia, transphobia, shame, public ridicule, bullying, discrimination, and silence. These harms affect people at school, at work, in families, in faith spaces, online, and in public life.
For many LGBTQ+ people, especially young people, this can lead to isolation, poor mental health, fear, and a deep sense that they do not belong. Transgender and non-binary people in Bermuda face added stigma, misunderstanding, and gaps in safety, healthcare, and legal protection.
OUTBermuda has also recently completed Bermuda’s first national LGBTQ+ survey and research project, in partnership with Global Research. This has been a historic opportunity for LGBTQ+ people connected to Bermuda to share their experiences, needs, concerns, and hopes for the future.
We will use the data from this research to better advocate for and serve our community. We also plan to publish the findings to help amplify the voices, contributions, and needs of LGBTQ+ people connected to Bermuda.
Together, IDAHOBIT and this research project mark an important moment for Bermuda. We are creating more space for LGBTQ+ people to be heard, seen, protected, and included in decisions that affect our lives.
This event will create a public moment of solidarity. It will name the harm caused by homophobia, biphobia and transphobia. It will lift up the dignity of LGBTQ+ people in Bermuda. It will call on leaders, institutions, families, and allies to help build a Bermuda where LGBTQ+ people are safe, seen, valued and thriving.
OUTBermuda’s Policy Manifesto calls for stronger action to protect and support LGBTQ+ Bermudians. This includes targeted LGBTQ+ mental health support, clear school protocols to address anti-LGBTQ+ bullying and harassment, improved access to gender-affirming care, stronger confidentiality protections, the addition of gender identity to the Human Rights Act, and stronger legal protections against hate and discrimination.
You can read the full OUTBermuda Policy Manifesto here: outbermuda.org/policy-manifesto
Your Presence Matters
This event is for LGBTQ+ people and allies.
For LGBTQ+ people, showing up can be an act of visibility, pride, courage, healing, or quiet solidarity.
For allies, showing up matters because LGBTQ+ people should not have to carry this work alone.
Allyship means more than private support. It means standing with LGBTQ+ people in public. It means challenging harmful comments, speaking up against bullying, supporting inclusive policy, and helping create safer homes, schools, workplaces, churches, and community spaces. When allies show up, it sends a message to LGBTQ+ people across Bermuda:
You are not alone. You belong here. Your life has value. Your future matters.
Event Focus & Messaging
The event will include brief remarks and calls to action focused on:
• What IDAHOBIT is and why Bermuda is marking it now
• The harm caused by homophobia, biphobia and transphobia
• The importance of protecting LGBTQ+ young people
• Mental health, safety, and belonging
• The need for stronger protections in schools
• The importance of respecting and protecting trans and non-binary people
• OUTBermuda’s Policy Manifesto and calls for social and policy change
• The role of allies, leaders, families, faith communities, businesses, and public institutions
• Bermuda’s first national LGBTQ+ survey and research project
Invitation to Attend
We encourage you to attend and to bring someone with you.
Bring a colleague. Bring a friend. Bring a family member.
Bring someone who believes Bermuda can be more loving, more inclusive, and more courageous.
This is a public moment for Bermuda to stand together against homophobia, biphobia and transphobia, and to stand for dignity, safety, belonging, and hope.
Let’s continue to build the Bermuda we deserve.

IDAHOBIT-2026. AT THE HEART OF DEMOCRACY
2026-05-15 13:00 - 17:00 (Asia/Yerevan) | Yerevan, Yerevan, Armenia
Discussion Meeting Dedicated to the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia
On May 15, 2026, ahead of the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia, a high-level discussion meeting was held at the initiative of Dignity Humanitarian NGO with the support of the Embassy of France in Armenia, bringing together Аmbassadors extraordinary and plenipotentiary accredited to Armenia, representatives of diplomatic missions and international organizations, as well as state and civil society representatives, human rights defenders and community.
The goal of the meeting was to discuss existing challenges and opportunities for reforms in the field of human rights in Armenia on the path toward democracy.
The event opened with welcoming remarks by Sergey GABRIELYAN, Dignity NGO President, who greeted the distinguished guests and reflected on the importance of the day, the challenges faced by LGBT+ persons, migrants, refugees, and other vulnerable groups in Armenia and the region, and emphasized the necessity of joint efforts to combat stigma, discrimination and hate speech.
Welcoming speeches were then delivered by high-ranking officials and international partners, including:
Anahit MANASYAN, Human Rights Defender of the Republic of Armenia,
Julie FORT, deputy head of mission of the French Republic in Armenia,
H.E. Andrew TURNER, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Canada to Armenia,
H.E. Eric DE MUYNCK, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Kingdom of Belgium to Armenia,
H.E.M. Petr PIRUNČÍK, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Czech Republic to Armenia,
Natia NATSVLISHVILI, Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Armenia,
Louis FALCY, UNHCR Armenia Officer-in-Charge and Senior Development Officer
Katrin BUDER-PELZ, Head of Development Cooperation at the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany in Yerevan, Armenia.
The speakers once again reaffirmed their commitment to the protection of human rights, equality, and the fight against discrimination, emphasizing that the construction of a safe, inclusive, and dignified society is only possible through joint and continuous cooperation. In their remarks, they highlighted the important role of civil society, international solidarity, and state responsibility in ensuring the protection of the fundamental rights of every individual, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, nationality, or social status.
At the beginning of the discussion, Alina Mirzoyan, Human Rights and Advocacy Coordinator at Dignity NGO, project coordinator presented the project “Strengthening the Capacities of LGBT+ People in Armenia through Improved Legal Protection, Awareness, and Economic and Social Inclusion,” implemented with the financial support of the Embassy of France in Armenia.
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This was followed by thematic presentations and discussions covering a number of important issues in Armenia, including:
The situation of GBT persons, refugees and migrants kept in penitentiary institutions, presented by Sergey GABRIELYAN, President of the Group of Public Monitors Implementing Supervision Over the Criminal -Executive Institutions and Bodies of The Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Armenia
Human rights violations on the grounds of sexual orientation and gender identity, presented by Shushan KHNKOYAN, Access to Justice NGO President
Legislative gaps in the protection of LGBT+ rights, presented by Anahit MKRTCHYAN, Dignity NGO defense-lawyer
Issues faced by LBT women, presented by Olya NALBANDYAN and Ani DAVTYAN, Human Rights and Public Health NGO representatives
Challenges faced by LGBT+ youth, presented by Sargis AYVAZYAN, CEO at IMPULSE Youth Social-Cultural NGO
Each thematic presentation was followed by a question-and-answer session, fostering active discussion and exchange of experiences among participants.
Concluding the event, Sergey Gabrielyan, President of Dignity NGO, emphasized the importance of continued cooperation and coordinated efforts in the field, then he turned to the community.
“Your life has value.
And Dignity NGO, together with all our partners, is making a commitment: we will continue — not just to speak up “in place of you,” but to stand beside you and help strengthen your voice.
And I want everyone to remember one thing: YOU ARE HEARD, YOU ARE SEEN, AND WE STAND BY YOUR SIDE.”

At the Heart of Democracy - Strengthening LGBTQIA+ Advocacy, Protection and Inclusion in Mauritius
2026-05-15 18:00 - 21:00 (Indian/Mauritius) | Le Suffren & Marina Hotel, Port Louis, Mauritius
As part of the global observance of the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Interphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT), Collectif Arc-en-Ciel proudly presents At the Heart of Democracy – Strengthening LGBTQIA+ Advocacy, Protection and Inclusion in Mauritius.
This event aims to create a meaningful platform for dialogue, reflection and collective action around the realities, challenges and progress of LGBTQIA+ communities in Mauritius. Bringing together activists, civil society organisations, institutions, international partners, community members and allies, the event will explore the critical role of democracy, human rights and inclusion in ensuring that LGBTQIA+ persons are protected, represented and empowered.
Through panel discussions, testimonies and community engagement, the event will highlight the importance of strengthening advocacy efforts, safeguarding activist well-being, promoting social inclusion and fostering collaboration between stakeholders to advance equality and dignity for all. It also serves as a space to celebrate the resilience, contributions and voices of LGBTQIA+ individuals and movements in Mauritius.
At a time where democratic values and human rights continue to shape our societies, this IDAHOBIT event reaffirms the collective commitment towards building a safer, more inclusive and equitable Mauritius where no one is left behind.

IDAHOBIT 2026 Commemoration
2026-05-17 08:00 - 17:00 (Asia/Kathmandu) | Kathmandu, Nepal
Mitini Nepal organised a special IDAHOBIT 2026 event in Kathmandu on 17 May under the theme ‘At the Heart of Democracy’. The event included the launch of a photo book ‘A Visual Journey of Courage, Identity and Community’, a fact sheet on the legal identity and safety of transmasculine individuals in Nepal, and an awards ceremony honouring model LGBTIQ+ families and couples, with the Minister of Women, Children, Gender and Sexual Minorities and Social Security as chief guest.
आज मिति २०८३ ज्येष्ठ ३ गते तदानुसार मे १७, २०२६ मा मितिनी नेपालको आयोजनामा होमोफोबिया, बाइफोबिया र ट्रान्सफोबिया विरुद्धको अन्तराष्ट्रिय दिवस २०२६, “लोकतन्त्रको केन्द्रमा” भन्ने विश्वव्यापी नाराका साथ विशेष कार्यक्रम बाग्मती प्रदेशको काठमाडौंमा सम्पन्न भएको छ । सन् १९९० मे १७ मा विश्व स्वास्थ्य संगठनले समलैंगिकतालाई मानसिक रोगको सुचीबाट हटाई समलैंगिकता हुनु प्राकृतिक प्रक्रिया हो भनी घोषणा गरिएको दिनको स्मरण गर्दै विश्वव्यापी रुपमा होमोफोबिया, बाइफोबिया र ट्रान्सफोबिया विरुद्धको अन्तर्राष्ट्रिय दिन मनाईन्छ । यस दिनलाई संसारभर यौनिक तथा लैंगिक अल्पसंख्यक समुदायका व्यक्तिहरुले राष्ट्रिय तथा अन्तर्राष्ट्रिय स्तरमा विभिन्न कार्यक्रमहरुको आयोजना गर्दै हर्षोल्लासका साथ मनाउने गर्दछन् । कार्यक्रममा बोल्दै प्रमुख अथिति माननीय मन्त्री, महिला बालबालिका लैङ्गिक तथा यौनिक अल्पसंख्यक र सामाजिक सुरक्षा मन्त्रालय सीता वादीले होमोफोबीया डे को सम्पूर्णमा शुभकामना व्यक्त गर्दै यस दिवसको अवसर पारेर लैङ्गिक तथा यौनिक अल्पसंख्यक समुदायको जीवन, अनुभव, संघर्ष, पहिचान, इतिहास, गर्व, दृश्यता, प्रतिरोध र भविष्यका आशाहरुलाई तस्बिरमार्फत प्रस्तुत गर्ने चित्रात्मक पुस्तक “साहस, पहिचान र समुदायको दृश्य अभिव्यक्ति “A visual journey of courage, identity and community” र नेपालमा ट्रान्समास्कुलिन व्यक्तिहरूको कानुनी पहिचान, पारिवारिक स्वीकृति र सुरक्षाको अवस्था सम्बन्धित तथ्यपत्र सार्वजनिक भएकोमा बधाई एवं शुभकामना दिनुभयो । यसका साथै आदर्श परिवार बागमती प्रदेश हेटौडाका ट्रान्सजेन्डर पुरुष ललित घलान र उहाँको आमा सोममाया घलान र लामो समयदेखि सँगै बसिरहनु भएका आदर्श समुदायका जोडी सुदूरपश्चिम प्रदेश धनगढीका युविक भण्डारी र उहाँको पार्टनर ममता ठकुरीलाई दोसल्ला, प्रमाणपत्र र नगदसहित सम्मान गर्नुभयो।

Acceso a salud mental
2026-05-18 11:00 - 12:00 (America/Argentina/Buenos_Aires) | Circulo del Magisterio de Tucumán, calle Las heras 25, San Miguel de Tucumán, Tucumán, 4000, Argentina
Te invitamos a un espacio de diálogo horizontal y constructivo. Queremos conocer de primera mano las políticas de prevención del suicidio y abordaje de salud mental en nuestra provincia, buscando que el acceso sea siempre integral, digno y libre de discriminación.
El Día Internacional contra la Discriminación por Orientación Sexual, Expresión e Identidad de Género (IDAHOBIT) es un momento global de solidaridad y acción para las personas y comunidades LGBTQIA+. Observado cada año el 17 de mayo, reúne a personas, organizaciones y gobiernos de todo el mundo para sensibilizar sobre los problemas que enfrentan las personas LGBTQIA+ y para promover las leyes y políticas necesarias para proteger sus derechos. En Tucumán, el próximo 18 de mayo a las 11 am tendremos un conversatorio con el Programa de Prevención del Suicidio del Ministerio de Salud de la provincia, en calle Las Heras 25 de San Miguel de Tucumán.
El encuentro se realiza en el marco del trabajo conjunto entre las organizaciones LGBT+ de Tucumán y el Ministerio de Salud Pública. Este encuentro es fundamental para fortalecer los lazos entre las instituciones públicas y nuestra comunidad, asegurando que nuestras necesidades específicas sean escuchadas. Esta actividad integra las acciones conmemorativas por el Día Internacional de lucha contra la discriminación por Orientación Sexual y Expresión e Identidad de Género. (#IDAHOBIT)

IDAHOBIT 2026-Decriminalisation in Asia Pacific: Are we moving forward?
2026-05-18 11:00 - 12:30 (Asia/Bangkok) | Siam Paragon, Bangkok, Thailand
We have seen positive efforts in terms of decriminalisation of same-sex sexual acts in India (2018), Bhutan (2021), Singapore (2022) and most recently Cook Islands (2023). However, seventeen countries in the region still have colonial laws prohibiting consensual sex between men.
The session aims to raise awareness for LGBTQI+ rights and the lives of those who are from countries with criminalization laws, and profiling the Amsterdam Rainbow Dress that has been centerfold for numerous celebrations and events related to the decriminalization of LGBTQI+.

IDAHOBIT 2026-Don’t leave us behind: Struggles for LGBTQI+ Refugees and Asylum Seekers
2026-05-18 14:00 - 15:30 (Asia/Bangkok) | Siam Paragon, Bangkok, Thailand
Thailand is seen as a paradise for LGBTQI+ people in the region. However, they exist in a precarious, often invisible state, facing high risks of detention and abuse due to a lack of legal recognition.
The session aims to bring attention to those that flee persecution, with undocumented status, struggling with limited protection, and facing stigma and discrimination or violence.

IDAHOBIT 2026-TENAC10US HERO Awards: Celebrating 10 years of Community Recognition
2026-05-18 17:00 - 18:30 (Asia/Bangkok) | Siam Paragon, Bangkok, Thailand
Standing for HIV, Equality and Rights, the HERO Awards celebrate the courage, creativity, and resilience of individuals and groups advancing LGBTQI+ human rights, equality, and HIV response in the region.
Celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2026, the session aims to profile previous Awards Recipients from the region to bring light to progress and rollbacks on their communities in their setting.

LGBTIQ+ Rights in the Digital Age
2026-05-19 13:00 - 16:30 (Europe/Berlin) | BeCentral, Cantersteen 12, Brussels (Belgium), Brussels, Belgium
Digital technologies increasingly shape how LGBTIQ+ people express themselves, organise politically and access services. Yet these same technologies can expose communities to discrimination, profiling, surveillance and exclusion. This edition of the Digital Rights Lounge explores the intersection between digital rights and LGBTIQ+ rights, bringing together activists, researchers and policymakers to discuss how digital infrastructures affect queer lives and what can be done to effectively protect rights in the digital age.

Queere Provinz / provincia queer?
2026-05-20 16:30 - 18:00 (Europe/Berlin) | Eurac Research, Drususallee/Viale Druso 1, Bozen-Bolzano, 39100, Italy
Queeres Leben findet nicht nur in den Städten statt – es ist immer hier. Die Veranstaltung widmet sich den Erfahrungen und Lebensrealitäten les- bischer, schwuler, bisexueller, trans*, queerer und allen weiteren Menschen aus der LSBTQIA+ Gemeinschaft in Südtirol. Vorgestellt wird das Oral-History-Projekt „Immer Hier“ von Martine De Biasi, in dem LSBTQIA+ Menschen aus ganz Südtirol ihre Lebensgeschichten erzählen; besonders im Fokus stehen ältere Generationen und Menschen aus ländlichen Regionen.
Außerdem werden Einblicke in den Sammelband „Frauen- Geschlechter- und Queer-Geschichte: Internationale Perspektiven und lokale Verortung“ präsentiert, der sich mit Frauen-, Geschlechter- und Queer-Geschichte im lokalen, kleinstädtischen und Südtiroler Kontext befasst. Ein Beitrag daraus diskutiert ein Forschungsprojekt zu frauenliebenden Frauen in Südtirol und eröffnet weitere Perspektiven auf regionale queere Geschichte.
Im Anschluss lädt eine Podiumsdiskussion mit Vertreter*innen unterschiedlicher Organisationen und Interviewpartner*innen des Projekts „Immer Hier“ dazu ein, über Herausforderungen, Handlungsspielräume und Zu- kunftsperspektiven queeren Lebens im ländlichen Raum ins Gespräch zu kommen.
Wir laden herzlich ein zu einem Abend des Zuhörens, Nachdenkens und Austauschs.

Acompañamientos y cuidados a personas mayores LGBT+
2026-05-26 09:00 - 12:00 (America/Argentina/Buenos_Aires) | Casa de la Mujer Bandeña Fundación Juana Azurduy, Mario Bravo 355, Banda del Rio Sali, Tucumán, Argentina
El 23 de mayo en el Punto Digital de la Banda del Rio Sali, en Tucumán, realizaremos el taller “Acompañamientos y cuidados a personas mayores LGBT+”, organizado por Crisálida biblioteca popular de género y diversidad afectivosexual de la fundación Bienvenides, la fundación Leswarmi; Familias Diversas Tucumán; La Grupa Trans, las fundación Juana Azurduy – Casa de la Mujer Bandeña y con el apoyo de la Dirección de Articulación Territorial del Ministerio de Desarrollo Social de la provincia de Tucumán.
El taller promueve la sensibilización de acompañantes terapeúticos, cuidadores domiciliarios, personas con titulación, formación o experiencias, incluidas las familias elegidas y los grupos de apoyo. En el encuentro abordamos el universo de las personas mayores LGBT+ desde una perspectiva de interseccionalidad.
