UK pledges £21 million to strengthen global LGBTQ+ rights

The UK government has pledged £21 million over three years to support LGBTQ+ rights worldwide, linking development funding with diplomatic efforts to challenge discrimination and violence.

The announcement accompanied confirmation that the UK will host the European International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOT+) Forum in London in May 2027. The UK’s role as host is framed as part of a broader international strategy to promote equality and protect LGBTQ+ communities, GiveOut reports.

According to the statement on GOV.UK, the new programme will combine financial support with diplomatic engagement to help build human-rights‑compliant legal frameworks and support local LGBTQ+ movements. The aim is to help ensure that LGBTQ+ people in every region can live more equal, safer lives free from persecution.

The £21 million package will run from 2026 to 2029. It includes £19.5 million in official development assistance and £1.5 million in non‑ODA funding. This work falls under the UK Strategic Framework on International LGBT+ Rights, which sets priorities for tackling the structural causes of exclusion and violence.

Chris Elmore MP, Minister for Multilateral and Human Rights at the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, said the investment reflects the UK’s ongoing commitment to defending the rights and freedoms of LGBTQ+ people. He stressed that the government intends to continue working with international partners, using both diplomatic influence and development programmes, to reduce discrimination and ensure that no one is forced to live in fear because of who they are or whom they love.

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