In recognition of diversity and inclusion of LGBTI populations and families

Despite some legal and social advances in the past two decades, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex (LGBTI) people continue to face widespread discrimination and violence in many countries. This leads to exclusion and adversely affects both the lives of LGBTI people as well as on the communities and economies in which they live.

On May 17, the World Bank Group will organize and participate in a series of events around the world to commemorate the International Day against Homophobia and Transphobia, or IDAHOT. Through discussions with UN agencies, policymakers, civil society, think tanks, and other global influencers, these activities aim to highlight the challenges and opportunities for promoting the inclusion of sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) in global development—in pursuit of the twin goals of ending extreme poverty and boosting shared prosperity. 

Here are the details on the events and how you can participate:

Online

Read a blog post and watch a video to learn why LGBTI inclusion matters for development.  

Post your messages of support on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram with the hashtags #IDAHOT and #RainbowFamily

Bangkok, Thailand

This year’s international theme is “families.” The World Bank, UN agencies, civil society organizations, the diplomatic community and development partners will co-host a one-day event in Bangkok that aims to highlight the role of family connections, love, and support for LGBTI people and their families. It will also highlight new survey data on LGBTI exclusion in Thailand.

How you can participate:

• Join the event, register online at our Facebook event page
• Post a photo of you and family or friends on social media with the hashtag #RainbowFamily for a chance to be shown on the screen at the event venue
• Learn more about the event and agenda: en.idahotthailand.org
• Learn more about LGBTI experience in Thailand here.

Salzburg, Austria

The Salzburg Global Institute’s Global LGBT Forum will host an IDAHOT event in Salzburg, Austria. The event will focus on the theme of "home" and address three interconnected issues: family, LGBT migration and refugees, as well as safety and security. Through a video message, the World Bank’s SOGI Global Advisor Clifton Cortez and Thailand Country Director Ulrich Zachau will address the global theme of “family” and share the new Thailand LGBTI data.

Learn how to follow or participate in the Salzburg Global LGBT Forum here.

Washington, D.C.

The Economic and Security Dimensions of Protecting LGBT Rights

The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) will host a public symposium on the economic and security dimensions of protecting LGBT rights. Speakers include Maninder Gill, the World Bank’s Director on Social Development, as well as representatives from government, civil society and the private sector. The panelists will look back at the gains made and look forward for opportunities to extend equality to all.

Watch live webcast here at 9:30 a.m. on May 17 ET.