Politicians in 51 Countries Spewed Anti-LGBTQ+ Rhetoric During Elections: Study Reveals Widespread Abuse

Politicians in at Least 51 Countries Used Anti-LGBTQ+ Rhetoric During Elections, NGO Finds A new study by Outright International has revealed that politicians in at least 51 countries used homophobic or transphobic rhetoric during elections last year. The report, which analyzed data from 60 countries and the European Union, found that such language was often used to depict LGBTQ identity as a foreign threat or to condemn gender ideology. According to the study, openly gay, bisexual, and transgender people ran for office in at least 36 countries, including Botswana, Namibia, and Romania. The number of LGBTQ elected officials doubled to at least 233 in Brazil. The report's findings have sparked concern among human rights groups, who argue that such rhetoric can contribute to a hostile environment for LGBTQ individuals. "This kind of language has real-world consequences," said Jessica Stern, executive director of Outright Action International. "It can lead to increased violence, discrimination, and marginalization of LGBTQ people." However, some politicians have defended their use of anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric as necessary to protect traditional values. In Germany, the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party has stated that it is against other forms of cohabitation than between a man and a woman. The study also found that while there were gains in LGBTQ representation, many countries still have significant barriers to entry for LGBTQ individuals seeking public office. "LGBTQ people continue to face significant obstacles when running for office," said Stern. "From discriminatory laws to lack of support from party leaders, it's clear that more needs to be done to create an inclusive and welcoming environment." The report's findings come as the international community continues to grapple with issues related to LGBTQ rights. In 2019, a UN human rights expert called on countries to take action to protect LGBTQ individuals from violence and discrimination. As the world marks International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Transphobia, and Intersexphobia (IDAHOBIT) on May 17th, advocates are urging governments to take concrete steps to address these issues. "It's time for leaders to put words into action," said Stern. "We need policies that protect the rights of LGBTQ people, not rhetoric that perpetuates hate and intolerance." The study's findings highlight the ongoing challenges faced by LGBTQ individuals in many countries around the world. As the international community continues to work towards greater inclusivity and equality, it remains to be seen whether these efforts will yield tangible results. Background: In recent years, there has been a growing trend of politicians using anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric during elections. This language often targets LGBTQ identity as a foreign threat or seeks to condemn gender ideology. While some countries have made progress in recognizing the rights of LGBTQ individuals, many still lag behind. Additional Perspectives: While human rights groups have expressed concern over the report's findings, not all politicians agree that anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric is problematic. Some argue that such language is necessary to protect traditional values and promote family-friendly policies. In response to the study, a spokesperson for the AfD party stated, "We will continue to stand up for our values and principles, even if they are unpopular with some groups." Current Status and Next Developments: The report's findings come as the international community continues to grapple with issues related to LGBTQ rights. As governments around the world mark IDAHOBIT on May 17th, advocates will be pushing for concrete action to address these issues. In the coming months, Outright International plans to release a follow-up report highlighting best practices and successful policies that promote LGBTQ inclusion in politics. *Reporting by Theguardian.*