The UN LGBTI Core Group is an informal cross-regional organisation working to mainstream LGBTQ+ inclusion throughout UN mechanisms and processes at the UN headquarters in New York. It was established in 2008 and is currently co-chaired by Argentina and The Netherlands.
Each year the group hosts a number of high-level events coinciding with the UN calendar, tackling a variety of topics about LGBTQ+ inclusion. It also works year-round with member states not part of the Core Group to promote progress for LGBTQ+ equality.
Jessica Stern, Executive Director of OutRight Action International, said: ‘The significance of Nepal and Iceland joining the UN LGBTI Core Group right now is tremendous. The Covid-19 pandemic has a devastating effect on LGBTQ+ people.
‘In numerous countries we are being scapegoated for the crisis; in others our hard-fought human rights are backsliding. By joining the group at this moment, Nepal and Iceland send a powerful message – that our rights and our lives cannot be overlooked at any time, particularly not during a crisis.’
The UN LGBTIQ Core Group, including its newest members, will be hosting an event marking International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Intersexism and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT) on Monday, May 18.