For the last two years the Equality and Human Rights Commission has chaired the Commonwealth Forum of National Human Rights Institutions (CFNHRI). The CFNHRI is a member-led network of human rights institutions, ombudsmen and public defenders who protect, promote and advance human rights in their respective countries, from within the Americas and Europe, to Africa, Asia, and the Pacific. 

In the Commonwealth, nearly two-thirds of countries still criminalise same-sex activity between adults and many people continue to face discrimination, violence and abuse because of their sexual orientation and/or gender identity. A key focus of the CFNHRI's work during our chairship has been upholding sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) rights. To commemorate International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia (17th May), we're shining a light on the work of NHRIs across the Commonwealth to protect the human rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and intersex (LGBTI) people.

We're also updating you on key actions related to our ongoing response to the coronavirus pandemic, including our publication of vital new guidance for employers and our submission of evidence to the Women and Equalities Committee on the impact of the pandemic on people with protected characteristics. You can find an overview on our coronavirus work here. 

And we're sharing our 2019-2020 Impact Report, with a summary of how we used our unique powers to uphold equality and human rights over the last year.

Every person has the right to be treated equally and to live a life free from discrimination and persecution. 'Beyond Tolerance' is a short animation which highlights the role that National Human Rights Institutions have in protecting and promoting the rights of LGBTI people. It underscores acceptance and inclusion as vital foundations of strong rights-respecting societies where everyone can thrive, and no one is left behind. 

'Beyond Tolerance' is narrated by Victor Madrigal-Borloz, the United Nations Independent Expert on Protection against violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. 

The theme for International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia 2020 (which fell on 17th May) was ‘Breaking the Silence’ and across the Commonwealth NHRIs raised their voices to promote the human rights of LGBTI people. Representatives from National Human Rights Institutions in Europe, the Pacifc and Africa have shared their experiences of working to uphold sexual orientation and gender identity rights:

Employers are facing unprecedented circumstances in responding to coronavirus (COVID-19). We know that many employers are proactive and innovative, putting inclusivity and the needs of their employees at the heart of their response.

We also appreciate that difficult decisions need to be made, including changing the ways employees work, choosing how to pay those self-isolating and making decisions around furloughing and redundancy. That's why we've produced new guidance for employers to aid their decision-making and help them ensure they don't discriminate. 

The Women and Equalities Select Committee is carrying out an investigation into the impact of coronavirus on people with protected characteristics. As the duty bearer for upholding the Equality Act, we submitted comprehensive written evidence and last week our Chair David Isaac and Executive Director of Corporate Strategy and Policy, Melanie Field, gave spoken evidence to the Committee. Watch Melanie and David's evidence session here.