Sweden’s foreign policy work for LGBTIQ persons’ enjoyment of human rights

Globally, Sweden is one of the largest donors in support of LGBTIQ persons’ full and equal enjoyment of human rights. Through its development cooperation, Sweden provides support to civil society organisations and human rights defenders who work to combat discrimination and violence and drive change. Some Swedish development assistance also goes to various UN organisations that promote equal treatment and create conditions for LGBTIQ persons’ participation in society on equal terms through projects and collaborations at country level.

Sweden regularly raises the issue of LGBTIQ persons’ enjoyment of human rights in bilateral dialogues with other countries, as well as in multilateral contexts such as the UN, the Council of Europe, the OSCE and the EU. In 2002, Sweden presented the first resolution in the UN General Assembly that contained a reference to sexual orientation, which was groundbreaking. It is still one of only two resolutions in the UN General Assembly that contains a reference to sexual orientation and gender identity, and the UN Secretary-General has referred to the resolution when forced to defend why it is legitimate for the UN to work on LGBTIQ issues. In other multilateral fora, Sweden also consistently advocates for resolutions and other decisions to contain strong language on non-discrimination, diversity and inclusion, in recognition of the particularly vulnerable situation of LGBTIQ persons. Sweden also supports the mandate of the UN’s Independent Expert on violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity, which highlights challenges and promotes positive legal development through dialogue and recommendations.

Sweden is a member of and a strong voice in coalitions of like-minded countries and partners, such as the Equal Rights Coalition, which works to promote equal rights and opportunities for LGBTIQ persons globally. Through collaboration with other states, international organisations and civil society, Sweden helps to defend and strengthen the right of LGBTIQ persons to live free, equal and safe lives – no matter where they are in the world.

Sweden works through the EU for LGBTIQ persons’ full enjoyment of human rights globally. The European Commission’s LGBTIQ Equality Strategy sets out a range of measures to tackle discrimination, promote safety and inclusion, and increase the EU’s commitment to LGBTIQ issues in the CFSP. The EU condemns all forms of discriminatory legislation and practice, including the criminalisation of same-sex relationships, and works in the UN and other forums to strengthen equal rights and opportunities for LGBTIQ persons.