OUT LGBT Well-being welcomes the United Nations Human Rights Council’s decision to renew the mandate of the Independent Expert on protection against violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI).
This critical renewal—secured through a majority vote—reaffirms the global commitment to uphold the human rights of LGBTIQ+ persons, particularly at a time when anti-rights movements are gaining momentum, and queer and gender-diverse communities are facing intensified threats.
We especially commend the reappointment of South Africa’s own Graeme Reid to this role. As a respected human rights scholar and advocate, Reid’s leadership will continue to shine a spotlight on injustices faced by LGBTIQ+ individuals globally, including in Africa where criminalization, hate crimes, and systemic exclusion persist.
The renewal comes amidst growing efforts by regressive forces to erase our identities, silence our voices, and undermine inclusive international mechanisms. It is therefore not just symbolic—it is strategic. It ensures the continuation of vital work in documenting violations, advocating for accountability, and supporting states in upholding international human rights standards.
We applaud the 29 states who voted in favor of the resolution, including South Africa, and remain deeply concerned by the opposition from several African and Global South countries who continue to use sovereignty as a veil for discrimination. The fight for dignity, recognition, and justice is not a Western agenda—it is a universal human rights imperative.
OUT reaffirms our support for the Independent Expert and stands in solidarity with civil society movements across the world who mobilized for this renewal.
We call on all governments, including our own, to engage constructively with the mandate and ensure its recommendations are translated into local laws, policies, and protections.
Together, let us continue to build a world where no one is left behind—regardless of who they are or whom they love.