Uniting for equality on IDAHOT 2025 through 'The Power of Communities’

Confront prejudice, encourage belonging, and tap into the strength of community was the worldwide cry for this year's International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia (IDAHOT). "Hate keeps us apart" and "Together we can build bridges" were the powerful messages conveyed by this year's campaign, which was themed "The Power of Communities". 

In a joint effort with the Irish and Dutch embassies and the UN Information Centre (UNIC Pretoria), the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) spearheaded an innovative online campaign and backed a moving photo exhibition that brought attention to the vital role of community in achieving LGBTQI+ equality and dignity. "Putting a Human (Rights) Face to LGBTIQ+ Forcibly Displaced Persons in South Africa" was an exhibition that ran from 20 May to 20 June 2025 at Johannesburg's Victoria Yards as part of these efforts. With the help of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the two embassies, and The Fruit Basket, an exhibition was held to highlight the experiences of the LGBTIQ+ community that has been forcibly displaced as a result of violence and discrimination against them because of their sexual orientation, gender identity, or sex characteristics (GIESC).

Irish Ambassador Austin Gormley pondered deeply on Ireland's LGBTQI+ rights history, describing the steps taken to achieve equality in marriage and the decriminalisation of same-sex partnerships. "There is hope for change, and we must be persistent," he said, citing Ireland's experience with decriminalisation and marriage equality as an example. The impact of persistent campaigning, political determination, and community involvement in changing long-standing laws and customs is well demonstrated by his comments. While Ireland's successes provide cause for optimism, Ambassador Gormley stressed that the world must remain vigilant and take consistent action to guarantee that human rights improve for everyone.

The Dutch Ambassador, Joanne Doornewaard, highlighted IDAHOT's wider, worldwide importance at the same time. This day serves as a poignant reminder that the liberty to love and be authentic is not universally guaranteed, she said. Many LGBTQI+ people still endure persecution, prejudice, and violence just for being themselves, despite advancements in certain nations, according to her message, which she is urging the world community to acknowledge. This is a crucial time to recommit to global equality and justice, as Ambassador Doornewaard's remarks highlight the critical need for international unity and collective accountability to defend and uphold the rights and dignity of LGBTQI+ persons everywhere.

Both Ambassadors reflected on this year's theme, #PowerOfCommunity, which urged people to come together despite their differences and work for a world where everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression, can live their lives freely and authentically.

The United Nations' dedication to equality and inclusion was reaffirmed by Nelson Muffuh, UN Resident Coordinator in South Africa, in his statement of solidarity. He emphasized the importance of unity in creating communities that are welcoming, secure, and equitable, emphasising that everyone should feel safe, respected, and protected from prejudice. Muffuh stressed the need of working together to eliminate discrimination, combat stigma, and guarantee legal and social acceptance for LGBTQI+ people in order to realise this goal.

Eva Kiwango, UNAIDS Country Director for South Africa, highlighted the strong alignment between this year’s IDAHOBIT theme, “The Power of Communities”, and UNAIDS’ mission. “We must acknowledge the role LGBTQI+ communities play in advancing rights, services, and justice in the HIV response,” she said. Kiwango emphasized that these communities are not only advocates but also key actors in HIV prevention, treatment, and care. However, she warned that persistent discrimination and stigma continue to hinder progress. “Ending discrimination is key to ending AIDS by 2030,” she affirmed, noting that health and human rights are inseparable. Her message called for a more inclusive and empowered response—one that centres the dignity and leadership of marginalized communities.

We must champion a vision of a world where everyone belongs—regardless of who they are or whom they love. These calls to action encouraged individuals and institutions alike to speak out against injustice, welcome those in need, empower the vulnerable, and stand in solidarity with communities under threat. Through empathy, compassion, and unity, we are reminded that inclusive communities don’t simply happen—they are built together, through our shared commitment and collective action.