Politicians worldwide use anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric in 51 countries during elections

Politicians in at least 51 countries used anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric during elections last year, according to a new study by the human rights group Outright International. The report found that politicians in 60 countries and the European Union used homophobic or transphobic language during election campaigns, with some depicting LGBTQ identity as a foreign threat. In other cases, they condemned gender ideology, which has been a contentious issue in many parts of the world. "It's alarming to see how widespread this rhetoric is," said Jessica Stern, executive director of Outright International. "When politicians use anti-LGBTQ language, it can have real-world consequences for LGBTQ people, including increased violence and discrimination." However, the report also noted that there were gains in LGBTQ representation during elections last year. In at least 36 countries, openly gay, bisexual, or transgender individuals ran for office, with some even winning seats. In Brazil, for example, the number of LGBTQ elected officials doubled to at least 233. This increase was seen as a positive development by many advocates for LGBTQ rights. "We're seeing more and more LGBTQ people running for office and being elected," said Stern. "This is a sign that there's growing recognition of the importance of LGBTQ representation in politics." The use of anti-LGBTQ rhetoric during elections has been a long-standing issue, with some politicians using it as a way to mobilize support from conservative voters. "It's a cynical tactic used by politicians who want to whip up fear and anxiety among their constituents," said Dr. Nathaniel Frank, a scholar at the Williams Institute at UCLA Law School. However, others argue that anti-LGBTQ rhetoric is a legitimate response to what they see as a threat to traditional values. "We're not against LGBTQ people, but we do believe in preserving traditional family structures and values," said Alexander Gauland, a German politician from the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. "We think it's essential to protect our children from being indoctrinated with gender ideology." The report by Outright International highlights the ongoing struggle for LGBTQ rights around the world. "While there have been gains in some countries, we still see widespread discrimination and violence against LGBTQ people," said Stern. "It's essential that politicians use language that promotes inclusion and respect for all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity." The study provides a snapshot of the current state of LGBTQ representation during elections around the world. As the visibility of LGBTQ people continues to rise, it remains to be seen how this will impact politics in the years to come. In related news, several countries have recently taken steps to improve LGBTQ rights, including Botswana, Namibia, and Romania, which all saw openly gay or transgender individuals run for office during elections last year. *Reporting by Theguardian.*