UK appoints new global envoy for LGBTQ+ rights

The UK Government has appointed Lord Collins of Highbury as the new Special Envoy for LGBT+ Rights, expanding its international work to protect LGBT+ people from violence, persecution and discrimination.

The appointment comes at a time when many LGBT+ communities, human rights defenders and civil society organisations experience rising hostility, tighter restrictions on free expression and harsher criminal laws targeting sexual orientation and gender identity in several countries.

In his role as Special Envoy, Lord Collins will work across diplomacy and development policy to advance human rights, reduce violence and strengthen legal and social protections for LGBT+ people worldwide. He will deepen partnerships with civil society, governments, parliamentarians, business and international organisations, with a strong focus on supporting locally led change.

FCDO Minister for Multilateral and Human Rights Chris Elmore said the UK’s work remains centred on the principle that everyone should be able to live safely and freely, regardless of who they are or who they love, and that Lord Collins’ appointment will enhance international cooperation to defend LGBT+ rights and tackle violence and persecution.

Lord Collins said he is honoured to take on the role of UK Special Envoy for LGBT+ Rights. He emphasised that no one should face violence, criminalisation or exclusion because of their identity or relationships, and expressed his commitment to working alongside governments, parliaments, human rights organisations, businesses and communities to protect those most at risk and promote safety, freedom and dignity for LGBT+ people everywhere.

Lord Collins brings long-standing experience on equality and human rights. He currently serves as Deputy Leader of the House of Lords and Government Spokesperson for Equalities, and previously served as Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office. As Special Envoy, he will report to the FCDO Minister for Multilateral and Human Rights, aligning his work with the UK’s broader efforts to uphold human rights and fundamental freedoms globally while continuing in his existing parliamentary roles.

His appointment follows that of Lord Herbert of South Downs, who served as the UK’s first Special Envoy for LGBT+ Rights from May 2021 to January 2025. It also sits within a wider package of government action to promote equality and protect LGBT+ people from abuse, including the draft Conversion Practices Bill and the UK’s role as host of the European IDAHOT+ Forum in London in 2027.

In May 2026, the UK announced a £21 million three-year commitment to advance LGBT+ rights internationally. This funding supports legal reform, protections for free expression, and locally led organisations challenging violence and persecution, further reinforcing the mandate of the Special Envoy.

The European IDAHOT+ Forum in London in May 2027 will bring together governments, civil society groups, policymakers and advocates from across Europe to share strategies, coordinate action and renew commitments to LGBT+ equality.

For LGBT+ professionals, allies and inclusive employers who want to connect with this global push for equality in their own workplaces and careers, signing up to myGwork offers a way to engage with a worldwide LGBT+ business community and support tangible progress on rights and inclusion.