Survey reveals gap in corporate protections for LGBTQ+ employees traveling internationally 

A recent survey highlights the increased safety concerns faced by LGBTQ+ employees when traveling abroad for work, revealing a significant disparity between these concerns and the protections offered by their employers. The study indicates that a majority of LGBTQ+ business travelers feel less safe compared to their heterosexual and cisgender counterparts, particularly when traveling to countries where their identities are criminalized.

The report, conducted by World Travel Protection and reported on by Advocate, found that over half (52%) of LGBTQ+ employees perceive a heightened risk when traveling for work. This is compounded by the fact that homosexuality remains illegal in 61 countries.

Despite these concerns, only 13% of workplaces provide LGBTQ+-specific pre-travel information for international trips, a figure that remains unchanged from the previous year, indicating a lack of progress in safeguarding LGBTQ+ employees. This absence of support leaves them vulnerable to safety risks, harassment, and discrimination, particularly in regions where their rights are not recognized or protected.

The data is based on a February online survey of 2,000 individuals who travel for business at least once a year, with respondents from the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia.

The report strongly recommends that organizations offer resources detailing destination-specific risks for LGBTQ+ individuals to all employees, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. These resources should include guidance on accessing medical support and clear protocols for reporting and addressing incidents of harassment or discrimination. Furthermore, businesses should permit employees to decline travel to potentially dangerous countries without repercussions and provide alternative travel options whenever possible.

Frank Harrison, Regional Security Director Americas at World Travel Protection, emphasized the critical need for proactive measures: "When sending LGBTQ+ employees to parts of the world where their rights are not fully recognized by the host government, there needs to be a plan in place to support them." The survey underscores the urgent need for companies to prioritize the safety and well-being of their LGBTQ+ employees by implementing comprehensive pre-travel support and protection measures.