Statement from the Equal Rights Coalition (ERC)
The Equal Rights Coalition (ERC) expresses its deep concern at the growing trend towards the criminalisation of same-sex relationships. Since 2023, some countries have enacted or passed laws criminalising homosexuality, whilst in others, draft legislation aimed towards criminalisation is currently being considered.
The tightening of criminal penalties based on sexual orientation or gender identity contravenes international human rights obligations freely undertaken by States. Criminalisation violates the principle of equality and non-discrimination enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, in addition to prosecuting the promotion, support, and financing of LGBTIQ+ people, exacerbating the risks of persecution, violence and social exclusion against LGBTIQ+ people and, in the end, it promotes fear, fuels polarization, and stigmatizes differences thus posing a threat to rights, freedom and well-being of every individual.
These provisions may not only constitute a direct violation of human rights, but also restrict access to essential services such as healthcare and justice, and perpetuate structural cycles of violence and discrimination.
Furthermore, there is deep concern that such provisions contribute to creating and legitimising environments of violence. Criminalisation not only exposes LGBTIQ+ people to situations of abuse and vulnerability, but may also encourage acts of violence, harassment and discrimination by third parties, by reinforcing perceptions that such conducts are legitimate. This context undermines social cohesion, erodes the rule of law and hinders access to mechanisms of protection and justice.
We at the Equal Rights Coalition urge all States to reconsider the adoption of bills that establish or increase prison sentences for consensual same-sex sexual relations, and to move towards decriminalisation, effective protection and the full guarantee of the human rights of LGBTIQ+ people. The adoption of measures that criminalise sexual diversity undermines the rule of law and erodes respect for the inherent dignity of all people. The universality and indivisibility of human rights demand that these standards be respected without exception, in all regions of the world.
We also urge the international community to promote the repeal of these legislative initiatives, to provide support and protection to LGBTIQ+ people at risk, and to strengthen cooperation with civil society organisations defending human rights.
The statement against the trend of criminalization of sexual orientation and gender identity has been signed, up to 21-04-2026, by Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Mexico, Montenegro, Netherlands, New Zealand, North Macedonia, Norway, Portugal, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.