Secretary-General's video message to the Global LGBTI Conference

I thank Uruguay and The Netherlands for organizing this important gathering.

Ending rights abuses against LGBT and intersex people is a great human rights cause at the heart of the UN’s founding mission.

I am encouraged by signs of progress. At the Human Rights Council, more than a hundred countries have accepted UN recommendations to curb violence and discrimination against people based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

I also welcome the Council’s recent appointment of a UN Independent Expert on violence and discrimination against LGBT people.

We must do more to prevent violence, tackle discrimination, end bullying and ensure access to all services.

I applaud your new Equal Rights Coalition. I hope it can help protect the rights of LGBT and intersex people.

I am proud to be part of the global fight against homophobia and transphobia. I am proud of the UN’s contribution to progress.

LGBT and intersex people are courageously addressing discrimination. We owe them full support and leadership. Equality for them will benefit everyone