Renewed commitment from UK Government on global LGBT+ rights
The Global Equality Caucus welcomes the UK Government’s announcement of funding to support international LGBT+ equality, at a critical time for the advancement of LGBT+ rights, legislative reform, and health equity.
Since 2023, the UK Government has partnered with GEC to support the strengthening of our network in Africa, where we are working with legislators and civil society to improve partnerships on equality issues and develop inclusive policies. We are pleased that this new commitment means our capacity-building work can now be sustained until at least 2029, as our outreach expands and responds to evolving challenges.
Across the continent, anti-rights movements, shrinking civic space, and discriminatory laws continue to threaten progress. This support strengthens our work with lawmakers, civil society, and regional partners to advance dignity, equality, and inclusive public policy for all.
Over the next three years, our Africa regional strategy will focus on three key pillars:
Advancing legislative reform and strengthening parliamentary leadership to promote equality, inclusion, and protection of human rights.
Promoting health equity by advancing rights-based access to HIV, SRHR, mental health, and other essential health services for vulnerable and underserved communities.
Building resilient regional movements and partnerships to counter stigma, discrimination, and anti-rights narratives across Africa.
Sheriff Mothopeng, GEC Regional Manager for Africa and the Commonwealth, said:
We commend the UK Government for continuing to stand with equality movements, human rights defenders, and communities working toward justice and inclusion despite growing global challenges. Together, we remain committed to building an Africa where everyone can live freely, safely, healthily, and with dignity.
This renewed commitment also sends an important message about the value of sustained international solidarity and partnership in advancing equality and human rights. By continuing to invest in regional leadership and locally-driven advocacy, the UK Government is helping strengthen the long-term resilience of movements working toward democratic inclusion and social justice across Africa. GEC will continue to work collaboratively with partners, legislators, and communities to ensure that progress toward equality is not only protected, but accelerated for future generations.