Every year on 17 May, the world marks IDAHOBiT. This stands for the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia. This year's theme is democracy.

The global LGBTQ+ movement is facing serious challenges. Many countries still have laws that criminalise LGBTQ+ people. These laws make it dangerous to be openly gay, bisexual, or transgender. Activists are calling on governments to repeal these harmful laws.

Another major challenge comes from the United States. The US government has cut funding for global LGBTQ+ programmes. These cuts affect organisations that support LGBTQ+ people in vulnerable countries. Many of these groups rely on US money to do their work. Without this support, their work becomes much harder.

The link between democracy and LGBTQ+ rights is strong. In countries with strong democracies, LGBTQ+ people often have more protections. In countries where democracy is weakening, LGBTQ+ rights often suffer too. Activists say this connection is important to understand.

IDAHOBiT was first celebrated in 2004. The date, 17 May, marks the day the World Health Organisation removed homosexuality from its list of mental disorders. That happened in 1990. Since then, the day has grown into a global event.

This year, events are planned in many countries around the world. These include marches, workshops, and public discussions. The goal is to raise awareness and push for change. Organisers want to show that LGBTQ+ rights are human rights.

Activists are also highlighting the rise of anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric in politics. In several countries, politicians are using anti-LGBTQ+ language to gain votes. This makes the environment more hostile for LGBTQ+ communities. IDAHOBiT is a moment to push back against this trend.

The message from the global LGBTQ+ movement is clear. Democracy must include everyone. It must protect the rights of LGBTQ+ people too. Without full inclusion, democracy is not complete. This year's IDAHOBiT is a reminder of how much work still needs to be done.