Using the Human Rights Conference to affect change within Asia Pacific

The Human Rights Conference was leveraged to advocate for positive policy change supporting the rights and freedoms of LGBTQIA+ people in Asia Pacific

Foreign Minister Penny Wong (she/her) announced a package of reforms coinciding with the Human Rights Conference, including a new fund with an initial allocation of $3.5 million to support LGBTQIA+ organisations and networks in Asia Pacific, a human rights engagement strategy, and a new LGBTIQ unit in the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.1

“We recognise that to act meaningfully, we must act in support and alignment with those on the ground. We will listen to the voices, views and priorities of LGBTQIA+ human rights defenders and civil society. The voices of those who best know the context, challenges and opportunities in their countries.”

– Senator the Hon Penny Wong, remarks to the Human Rights Conference

Australia’s investment will begin with an increased contribution to the US-led Global Equality Fund to provide emergency assistance to human rights defenders and LGBTQIA+ organisations in the region.

In addition, DFAT will consult widely to establish an LGBTQIA+ human rights engagement strategy which will include bilateral and multilateral diplomacy, development and humanitarian assistance.

Attendees reported a positive impact of attending the Conference, including a better understanding of issues facing LGBTQIA+ communities in Asia Pacific

8 in 10 attendees said that attending the Human Rights Conference increased their understanding of the issues faced by LGBTQIA+ people in Asia Pacific, and 7 in 10 agreed that the Conference provided them with the skills, networks and experiences to create change in their local communities (chart right).

3,200 Conference attendees, including 1,200 online

Source: Equality Australia

227 Presenters, across 106 sessions and 3 days

60+ Countries and regions represented

Source: Human rights conference survey, (n=188)

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