23 LGBTQI+ Organisations Unite to Call for Change and Share Positive Roadmap for Human Rights Ahead of UN Review

A coalition of 23 LGBTQI+ organisations has delivered a joint submission to the United Nations, outlining a collaborative roadmap to further strengthen LGBTQI+ human rights in Ireland. Led by Transgender Equality Network Ireland (TENI), LGBT Ireland, and Belong To, the comprehensive joint submission arrives ahead of Ireland’s fourth examination by the UN Human Rights Council.

The Universal Periodic Review (UPR) is a regular peer-review process where UN member states share progress and discuss their domestic human rights frameworks. Ireland’s review will take place in Geneva this November. 

Drawing on extensive research, policy analysis and lived experience, the coalition’s report is designed to act as both a wakeup call and a supportive guide for the State, highlighting challenges and opportunities to build on existing foundations and deliver much needed change. The submission details 33 constructive recommendations across key areas, including:

• Legal gender recognition
• Hate crime and hate speech protections
• Inclusive education and healthcare access
• Family rights and economic considerations

Daire Dempsey, Executive Director of TENI said: 

“This submission reflects a shared vision of change from 23 LGBTQI+ organisations in Ireland. As the State actively campaigns for a seat on the UN Human Rights Council this coming October, there has never been a more important time for our domestic record to stand as a model of best practice. Ireland needs to take action to protect and strengthen the rights of LGBTQI+ people.

We want to support Ireland in addressing the many outstanding challenges faced by the LGBTQI+ community – in legal rights, in healthcare, in education and in protection from harm. Our 33 recommendations offer a constructive, forward-looking roadmap to ensure that the values of equality and inclusion we champion internationally are fully realised for the LGBTQI+ community here at home. Ireland cannot stay proud of progress that is now a decade old, without meaningfully addressing the challenges our communities face in 2026.”

The coalition is looking forward to engaging positively throughout the UN review process to help deliver on shared goals for the community. 

ENDS

Media Contact:Daire Dempsey, 087 258 4420, media@teni.ie