COVID-19 AND THE PLIGHT OF LGBTIQ PERSONS.

In every country, some groups confront barriers that prevent them from fully participating in political, economic, and social life. These groups may be excluded not only through legal systems, land, and labor markets, but also discriminatory or stigmatizing attitudes, beliefs, or perceptions. Disadvantage is often based on social identity, which may be across dimensions of GENDER, age, location, occupation, race, ethnicity, religion, citizenship status, disability, and SEXUAL ORIENTATION and gender identity (SOGI), among other factors. This kind of social exclusion robs individuals of dignity, security, and the opportunity to lead a better life. Unless the root causes of structural exclusion and discrimination are addressed, it will be challenging to support sustainable inclusive and growth.

The current COVID-19 pandemic has put the spotlight on deep rooted systemic inequalities. As COVID-19 continues to have wide-reaching impacts across the globe, it is important to understand the differentiated and intensified impact the pandemic has on the most marginalized, including persons with disabilities, women, unemployed youth, sexual and gender minorities, the elderly, Indigenous Peoples, and ethnic and racial minorities. Many LGBTIQ+ and intersex people struggle more than ever to access health services and are overrepresented among those without access to social security.

GENDER IDENTITY, SEXUAL ORIENTATION AND SEXUALITY should be treated as private life so as to avoid prejudice and protect key persons.

Our Pride Is Without Borders.