Legal frameworks which prohibit discrimination in employment based on sexual orientation and gender identity are imperative to ensuring the safety of workers everywhere.
The CGU LGBTI Committee have joined civil society groups from across the world to call for the renewal of this vital mandate.
“Trade unions across the world continue to advocate at all levels for LGBTI workers human rights everyday, everywhere. Fighting for safe workplaces and communities for all to live freely, without discrimination during this time in human history as the far-right wants to erase us based on sexual orientation and gender identity is of highest importance. The work of the UN needs to continue.”
Michele Kessler, Chair of the CGU LGBTI Committee
The Council of Global Unions (CGU) represents over 200 million workers worldwide. This joint statement was signed by the Global Unions affiliated to the CGU and it is crucial for us to encourage continued support for the renewal of the mandate within our local organisations and civil society.
Related Items
Achieving Sustainable Development Goal 4
14 October 2026
Japan’s PISA results a lesson for all: High achievement cannot come at the expense of students and teachers’ wellbeing
Japan’s results in the 2025 edition of the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) recently released by Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) confirm the strength and relative equity of its public education system. But they also reveal growing pressures on students, severe staffing and resource shortages, and low...
Although globally there is total consensus on the value of education and gender parity has been reached in school enrollment, deeply entrenched patriarchal structures continue to deny girls and women the actual economic, social, and political benefits of their education. Moreover, women tend to dominate the ranks of teachers while...
Trade union rights are human rights
23 September 2026
Global Unions express their unwavering solidarity with LGBTI+ organisations, activists and human rights defenders in Türkiye
Turkish authorities launched a wave of raids and detentions targeting LGBTI+ organisations, activists, trade union members and human rights defenders. Media reports
indicate that dozens of people are being held in detention. According to a statement issued by the Minister of Justice
, legal proceedings have been initiated against more...
As EI continues to defend and promote democracy, we must not forget that the fight for LGBTI rights is inseparable from the wider struggle for democracy, it cannot function without the full protection of universal human rights for all workers, without exception.
