Reaching Out to Civil Society

• Identify organizations that are working on equality and non-discrimination in your country and explore ways to collaborate and advance human rights for all individuals regardless of SOGI. For example, organize a meeting where activist can speak about their needs and challenges with other colleagues of your Committee.

• Build and maintain a working relationship with civil society organizations that serve LGBTI communities to facilitate the sharing of relevant information and increase cooperation among stakeholders.

• Use your leadership role to speak out against discrimination in the media and participate in activities hosted by LGBTI organizations.

• Advocate for open discussions, sensitization training and education campaigns on sexual orientation and gender identity with constituents to combat prejudice against LGBTI people.

• Become a public champion who advocates for the rights and inclusion of LGBTI people and encourage other popular figures and role models (from sports, the arts, public life) to do the same.

• Bring together and build broad-based civil society coalitions to promote dialogue and partnerships between parliaments and civil society, including but not limited to: LGBTI organizations, progressive and open faith-based organizations, youth led organizations, women’s groups and others to help break down taboos and challenge stigma and discrimination against LGBTI people.

The importance of engaging with civil society

Constructive dialogue with civil society organizations leads to trust-building on both sides, which is an essential pillar of information and data sharing in cases of violence and abuse. This includes testimonies from survivors, which parliamentarians can use to gather important feedback, develop inclusive laws and refine strategies and action plans on equality and non-discrimination.

Moreover, cooperation between parliamentarians and civil society organizations sends a powerful message to the broader public that representatives and constituents can work together to protect the human rights of all individuals regardless of their sexual orientation and gender identity.