Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex, and Queer+ (LGBTQIA+)

Providing a tailored response to the unique needs of LGBTQIA+ individuals in humanitarian settings, including a heightened risk of sexual violence, abuse, exploitation, and harassment.

Protecting individuals against violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
Addressing and reducing the unique barriers to LGBTQIA+ individuals seeking sexual and reproductive health services.
Creating partnerships with local LGBTQIA+ organizations, activists, and informal networks to understand their needs.

Why It Matters

Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex, and Queer+ (LGBTQIA+) individuals exist in all societies and cultures. They experience a heightened risk of sexual violence, abuse, exploitation, and harassment–particularly during times of crisis and instability. These unique threats, considerations, and barriers to treatment must be considered when creating and implementing sexual and reproductive health programming.

175 million the estimated number of LGBTQIA+ people living in persecutory environment yearly. Because LGBTQIA+ persons are often in hiding, accurate statistics are unavailable.

Guiding Principles on the Inclusion of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Intersex (LGBTQI) People in Development Policy and Programs

Guidelines
3/7/2019

Sexual and Gender Minority Refugees Safe Space Checklist

Tool
2/22/2019

How We Work

Our work on this issue is led by the LGBTQIA+ Sub-Working Group—a dedicated group of IAWG members who set the priorities and advance research, practice, and advocacy for LGBTQIA+ access to sexual and reproductive health services in humanitarian settings. Learn about their current objectives, priorities, and latest work.

Sub-Working Group

Sexual and reproductive health services remain critical during COVID-19

IAWG members and partners are producing clinical and programmatic guidance, assessments, policy papers, and statements to ensure continued prioritization of sexual and reproductive health and rights throughout COVID-19 response in humanitarian settings.

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