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As we welcome Hon. Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey as the newly appointed Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, we stand at a crucial juncture for the rights and dignity of LGBTI+ individuals across member states. This appointment is more than symbolic; it’s an opportunity to advance human rights and equality within a global community where nearly half of its member states continue to criminalise people based on sexual orientation or gender identity.
The role of Secretary-General carries a powerful mandate to uphold the Commonwealth Charter, including a commitment to human rights and equality. In an era where discrimination against LGBTI+ individuals remains entrenched in many regions, the Secretary-General’s leadership can bring attention to these systemic injustices and champion pathways to inclusive policy change.
Hon. Botchwey has previously expressed a commitment to human rights advocacy through diplomatic channels, pledging to begin with private engagement but not hesitating to address repressive legislation openly if needed. This approach will be essential in fostering a Commonwealth where LGBTI+ individuals can live free from fear and persecution.
The Secretary-General’s position uniquely positions her to convene leaders, drive policy discourse, and hold governments accountable, both publicly and privately. To be truly impactful, her efforts must extend beyond rhetoric to include concrete steps for decriminalisation, anti-discrimination laws, and protections in health, education, and employment. Supporting these rights is not just about values; it’s about building sustainable, peaceful societies where all individuals can thrive.
At Kaleidoscope Trust, we remain hopeful and committed to working alongside the Secretary-General to make the Commonwealth a global leader in equality for all its citizens. This moment is a call to action, and we will continue to advocate for a Commonwealth where everyone, regardless of identity, can live with dignity and equality.
Alex Farrow
CEO, Kaleidoscope Trust
The pressing LGBTI+ human rights challenges of our day can only be solved through collaboration, whether that be with grassroots or international human rights organisations, governments and funding bodies – and people that really care, like you.
Will you donate and help us create a free, safe and equal world for LGBTI+ people everywhere?
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