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LGBTQIA+ Representation in Global Governments: Reflecting on Progress and Shaping the Future

SpeakerS:

Dr. Shereen El Feki, Director, Solidarity for Voice and Change, IPPF
The Hon. Luanne M. Peterpaul, Esq., Assemblywoman, New Jersey Legislative District 11
H.E. Paolo Rondelli, General Director of Cultural Institutions, San Marino
Charles Moran, President, Log Cabin Republicans
Fabrice Houdart, Co-Founder, Koppa – the LGBTQ+ Economic Lab

“What I have witnessed and experienced as the first out lesbian in the New Jersey Legislature is surprising on both ends. I think it's really important that we all tell our life experiences. It's really important that we be visible, we be out, we talk about who we are as human beings. When people heard your life story, your history, where you came from, what experiences you were going through, people listened. It’s about opening our hearts and minds and having true conversations, not listening to soundbites – really doing the research and finding out what the real stance is.” The Hon. Luanne M. Peterpaul
“We live together, we live openly. [My partner] was with me during the official ceremonies—not always accepted around the world. During one official visit, we received a great bouquet of flowers in the room for Mrs. Rondelli and not for Mr. Rondelli—that was quite funny. In Europe, something is going wrong now. The far right wing is raising their head, and they are mainly focused on giving to LGBTQ+ community less rights or taking some rights off.” H.E. Paolo Rondelli
“In politics, as an example the U.S., we have probably less than 2% of seats in Congress; only Democrats, because there's no out conservatives in the United States, which is a bit of an aberration in Congress. Fortune just published a list last week of LGBTQ+ CEOs in companies above 100 million dollars globally—they only found 25 people, which is very, very low. In the United States, 7.6% of the population now self-identify as LGBTQ+ according to an annual survey by Gallup, so there's a huge gap in representation.” Fabrice Houdart
“From day one, be open and authentic and yourself, because your sexual orientation is an important part of who we are but it's not something that defines us or constrains us. So live your best life openly and authentically, and let it be incorporated into who you are but not your defining factor.” Charles Moran
“There's a professional price, but there's also a personal price that is paid for people who come from our communities and are also on the front lines of trying to make the change.” Dr. Shereen El Feki

Key takeaways:

  • Underrepresentation in politics and business: LGBTQIA+ individuals occupy less than 2% of seats in the U.S. Congress and below 1% in the private sector leadership roles. This significant gap highlights the need for increased representation to ensure diverse perspectives in decision-making processes.
  • Impact on decision-making: Inclusion of LGBTQIA+ individuals in leadership positions can lead to more comprehensive and empathetic policies addressing global challenges such as artificial intelligence, conflicts, and social justice.
  • Being out and visible: Panelists emphasized the importance of LGBTQIA+ individuals being open about their identities. Sharing personal experiences fosters understanding, challenges stereotypes, and inspires others to embrace authenticity. 
  • Encouraging others: By living openly, LGBTQIA+ leaders serve as role models, encouraging others in the community to assert their rights and contribute meaningfully to society.
  • Ongoing legal barriers: Despite advancements, 60 countries still criminalize same-sex relations, and 20 countries criminalize gender-diverse populations. This underscores the persistent legal challenges faced by the LGBTQIA+ community worldwide.
  • Recent advancements: Positive steps, such as Thailand legalizing same-sex marriage, demonstrate progress and offer hope for broader acceptance and legal recognition.
  • Economic incentives: Utilizing economic development, trade, and assistance can be effective strategies to encourage countries to improve their human rights records regarding LGBTQIA+ issues. 
  • Cross-Sector partnerships: Collaboration between governments, the private sector, and civil society is crucial to address social tensions and promote equality. 
  • Call to public service: Panelists urged LGBTQIA+ individuals to run for office and seek leadership positions to ensure their voices are included in policy-making. 
  • Creating inclusive spaces: There’s a need to not only seek seats at existing tables but also to create new spaces where diverse voices can influence decisions. 

Action items:

  • Promote LGBTQIA+ representation in leadership positions: Support and encourage LGBTQIA+ individuals to pursue roles in government and corporate leadership to enhance diversity and inclusivity in decision-making processes.
  • Foster visibility and open expression: Create safe and supportive environments that empower individuals to be open about their identities, promoting acceptance and understanding within society.
  • Advocate for global decriminalization of LGBTQIA+ identities: Support international efforts and policies aimed at decriminalizing same-sex relations and gender diversity across all countries while promoting anti-bullying.
  • Leverage economic tools to promote human rights: Utilize economic incentives, such as trade agreements and development assistance, to encourage countries to improve their human rights practices concerning LGBTQIA+ communities.
  • Enhance cross-sector collaboration: Strengthen partnerships among governments, businesses, and non-governmental organizations to address inequalities and advance human rights globally.
  • Include LGBTQIA+ perspectives in policy-making: Ensure that the voices and experiences of LGBTQIA+ individuals are represented in all levels of policy development and implementation.

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