The International Labour Organization (ILO) has successfully passed its budget after a protracted period of negotiations that brought to light a significant rift among nations concerning LGBTQ protections. The week-long discussions revolved around a specific reference to sexual orientation and gender identity, pitting Western countries against a coalition of African and Arab nations, with the backing of Russia.
The nearly $1 billion budget of the United Nations agency had been subject to intense debate, with diplomats revealing that it had been held hostage due to the acrimonious discourse. However, after electronic voting at the ILO’s annual meeting in Geneva, a resolution was reached. Canada’s Minister of Labour, Seamus O’Regan, who is openly gay and married, passionately urged delegates to find common ground and defend the rights of the LGBTQ community.
O’Regan stated, “Once rights are achieved, once they are named, we will not stand by and have them brushed over, put back in the closet, or taken away,” which prompted a wave of applause from those in attendance. Speaking to Reuters later, he emphasized that he would not allow the language to be diluted through compromise.
Pakistan emerged as a prominent opponent of the budget, expressing concerns over the perceived normative impact of the LGBTQ reference. This position garnered support from approximately 50 countries involved in the late-night discussions. Eventually, a resolution was reached earlier this week, maintaining the budget’s original language while including a note recognizing the divergent perspectives expressed on certain issues.
The ILO, which brings together governments, employers, and workers to establish labor standards, faced a challenging situation for its Director-General, Gilbert Houngbo. As the organization’s first African chief, Houngbo assumed office in October 2022 with a vision to promote social justice. The resolution of the budget negotiations marks a significant step forward, albeit amidst the complex dynamics of global LGBTQ rights and the need for continued dialogue.
With the International Labour Organization now able to proceed with its budget, attention turns toward the advancement of LGBTQ protections and the ongoing pursuit of social justice worldwide.