Equal Rights Coalition

The Equal Rights Coalition (ERC) is an intergovernmental body of 44 Member States dedicated to the protection of the rights of LGBTI persons. Member States provide leadership by actively engaging in thematic groups and commit to working closely with LGBTI civil society organisations who meet regularly as part of our programming.

Current Co-Chairs

The ERC is currently co-chaired by the governments of Colombia and Spain, for the 2024-26 period. The State Co-Chairs are supported by Civil Society Co-Chairs, who for this term are Caribe Afirmativo for Colombia and Fundación Triángulo for Spain.

Thematic Areas

These thematic areas each have working groups which afford a regular opportunity for Member States, INGOs and civil society to engage in close dialogue.

  • Donor Coordination

    Collaboration of governments, civil society, and other stakeholders to increase and improve the level of sustainable funding for the promotion and protection of LGBTI human rights.

  • Humanitarian Protection

    A specialized space within the ERC system to address the critical protection challenges faced by LGBTI individuals in humanitarian crisis contexts, including armed conflicts, forced displacement, natural disasters, and climate-related emergencies.

  • International Diplomacy

    Coordination of Member States and other stakeholders to strengthen cooperation, coordination, and communication in advancing LGBTI human rights and inclusive development.

  • National Laws & Policies

    Member States, civil society, and other stakeholders working to encourage the development of progressive legislation and policies.

  • SDGs & 2030 Agenda

    Coordinating on how the Global Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development can be used to benefit LGBTI communities across the globe.

Member states

The Equal Rights Coalition has 44 Member States, across Africa, Europe, Latin America, North America, Asia, and Oceania. In addition, the Coalition also has a civil society network, with organisations from across the globe.

Get involved

with the ERC, whether as a civil society organisation, government, or other stakeholder.