Security Risks for LGBTQ+ Travelers in 2023
LGBTQ+ travelers have a lot to think about when they decide to go abroad. Although the security environment for LGBTQ+ community members as a whole as generally improved in 2022, there are still unique challenges provided during international travel or long-term deployments.
HX Global, the U.S. division of Healix International, posted a press release on Globe Newswire addressing these concerns.
In their 2023 Risk Outlook, the company notes the different approaches regarding LGBTQ+ legislation throughout the countries and territories of the world. Currently, only 34 of the world's 195 countries recognize same-sex marriage. Discussions in Greece, Israel, India, Liechtenstein, Thailand, Czech Reuplic and the Philippines are ongoing.
The last year saw countries like Chile, Switzerland, Cuba and Andorra recognizing same-sex marriages. Slovenia, Mexico, and Tokyo have also authorized same-sex unions.
One Step Forward, Two Steps Back for LGBTQ+ Travelers
On the flip side, 32 countries and four jurisdictions have passed constitutional amendments explicitly prohibiting the recognition of same-sex marriages. Guatemala, the Privy Council of the United Kingdom, and Singapore are among the regions still in opposition. Singapore's Prime Minister also announced plans to reform the constitution to further prevent same-sex marriage legalization.
Conversion therapy is slowly going more out of style, at least. Throughout 2021 and 2022, countries like Canada, Chile, India, France, Greece and New Zealand all banned conversion therapy. The U.S.'s Wisconsin, Michigan, Minnesota and Pennsylvania have also ruled that federal and state funds cannot be used for conversion therapy. And while the United Kingdom did put a ban on conversion therapy in May 2022, it does not cover transgendered people.
Moving forward, LGBTQ+ issues are expected to remain a continued source of global political polarization. European political parties such as the Brothers of Italy, the Swedish Democratic Party, and the Polish Law and Justice Party highlight the increasing use of homophobic rhetoric to gain political traction.
Additionally, of the 68 countries that criminalize same-sex relationships, 33 are in Africa. Despite some progress, several nations continue actively enforcing discriminatory laws. These attitudes are not expected to change in 2023.
How Employers Can Keep Their LGBTQ+ Travelers Safe
The risks LGBTQ+ travelers face is nothing new, but the global attitude still prevents us from being fully complacent. For LGBTQ+ travelers moving about on business, it's important for employers to create and foster an open environment for their employees.
Many employees don't feel comfortable sharing their sexual orientation. If they are, the travel risk assessments should be customized accordingly depending on the location and purpose of travel. These assessments should also include any prevailing legal, cultural, logistical and security risks LGBTQ+ travelers may face.
It is also important for employers to have mitigation advice readily accessible, such as LGBTQ+ travel resources for everyone or offering access to a platform. This allows more discrete employees to quietly research the information needed.
Country-Specific Guidelines for LGBTQ+ Business Travel
It is also important for employers to be aware of the country-specific guidelines as it is. They should encourage their LGBTQ+ members to hold meetings at inconspicuous venues and highlight precautions to take.
HX Global also offers a Healix Sentinel Travel Oracle app that can be useful for pre-empting potentially volatile profiles.
HX Global also recommends that employers let their employees know about the ample legal protections. Some locations support detention, deportation, assault, or imprisonment for LGBTQ+, so employees should have access to appropriate legal advice and support. National embassies and consulates are great resources to better understand the level of consular support.
How to Reduce Your Risk Profile
If you're a part of the LGBTQ+ community and you're worried, there are some precautions you can take.
Even in locations where society is considered tolerant of homosexuality, it is recommended to keep a low profile.
Avoid public displays of affection when you can, and remain vigilant and ignore provocations.
Be discrete when you disclose your sexual orientation and exercise caution when using online LGBTQ+ social media platforms.
Additionally, remain aware of the risks associated with LGBTQ+ venues.
But more than anything -- keep fighting for your rights, fam. Note from the author, we got this and we will never be destroyed.
