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EXIT PAGE LIVE CHAT

IDAHOBIT 2026: Progress Worth Celebrating, Rights Worth Defending

Observed globally each year, the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT) marks the anniversary of the World Health Organization’s 1990 decision to stop classifying homosexuality as a mental disorder.

Minutes

This Sunday, 17 May, marks International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT). It is observed globally each year on the anniversary of the World Health Organization’s 1990 decision to stop classifying homosexuality as a mental disorder. It is a day to recognise progress, visibility and community. But it is also a reminder that LGBTQ+ people across the UK still face discrimination, insecurity and inequality in their everyday lives.

This year’s global theme, “At the heart of democracy”, is a reminder that real democracy must be built on justice, freedom and equality for everyone. It also highlights why IDAHOBIT matters today. When LGBTQ+ people face discrimination or unequal protection, democracy is weakened for everyone.

The 2026 Rainbow Map is out

The Rainbow Map, published annually by ILGA-Europe, tracks how 49 European countries are performing on LGBTQ+ rights. It looks at laws and policies across areas including equality, family rights, hate crime protections and trans recognition, showing where progress is being made and where countries are falling behind.

The 2026 Rainbow Map places the UK 22nd out of 49 countries. This is a continued decline from its position as the top-ranked country in 2015. The UK currently scores 46%, with concerns raised around gaps in legal protections, trans equality and access to legal gender recognition.

These findings reflect wider concerns about the lived experiences of LGBTQ+ people in the UK, especially trans communities and those facing multiple forms of discrimination.

Why This Matters

This is exactly why akt exists.

LGBTQ+ people are still twice as likely to experience hidden homelessness than non-LGBTQ+ individuals, with global majority LGBTQ+ people being 50% more likely to experience hidden homelessness than their White counterparts.

At akt we support LGBTQ+ young people every day, who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. Many have faced rejection, instability, or unsafe environments because of who they are. Inequality has immediate real world consequences, especially for young people trying to build safe, stable lives.

And we will continue to stand alongside LGBTQ+ young people and push for change. We want a society where they are not only protected by law but genuinely valued, supported, and able to thrive. Every young person deserves to feel safe, be seen, and have equal access to opportunity and hope.

Safe homes are the foundation for a future where LGBTQ+ people can thrive.

That is why IDAHOBIT is a time to reflect on progress, and also to highlight the urgent need for continued action so LGBTQ+ young people can live safely, openly, and with dignity.

Every day, we remain committed to providing life saving support, safe spaces, and opportunities for LGBTQ+ young people facing homelessness or unsafe living situations.