The International Office for Human Rights Action on Colombia

The IACHR calls on States to guarantee freedom of expression and participation in public life for LGBTIQ+ people

As part of Pride Month, the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) reiterated that Pride marches and other public expressions by LGBTIQ+ people constitute legitimate manifestations of freedom of expression, democratic participation and the defence of human rights, which must be protected by States. This call takes on particular significance in Colombia, where the 2026 Pride marches took place against a backdrop of growing political polarisation and concerns among civil society organisations regarding the rise in prejudice-motivated violence and rhetoric seeking to restrict the rights of LGBTIQ+ people. Against this backdrop, the IACHR reiterated that it is the responsibility of States to ensure that these demonstrations can take place freely, peacefully and safely, as well as to prevent and punish any act of discrimination, violence or intimidation against those who participate in public life to defend equality and democratic pluralism.

Read the full statement.

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The persistent violation of essential norms — such as the protection of the civilian population, the prohibition of collective punishment and respect for proportionality in the use of force — not only has devastating consequences for the Palestinian population, but also erodes the global mechanisms designed to limit the power of states and prevent abuses.

When these rules are repeatedly breached without any effective consequences, the framework that protects all populations in conflict situations, anywhere in the world, is weakened. Therefore, speaking out in this case does not mean ignoring other forms of suffering, but rather emphasising the urgency of defending an international order which, if it collapses, leaves everyone in a more vulnerable position.

Drawing attention to this situation is, therefore, an act consistent with the universal values we uphold: the protection of life, human dignity and respect for international law, without exception.

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