UNDP and ILGA World honored global champions of LGBTIQ+ equality with the 2026 International Pride Awards

On March 2, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and ILGA World announced the second edition of the International Pride Awards, a global celebration recognizing leaders, advocates and allies who have advanced equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, intersex and queer (LGBTIQ+) people around the world.

During the announcement, both organizations highlighted that across the globe courageous individuals continue to work—often against significant odds—to ensure that everyone can live freely and authentically.

Created in 2024, the awards highlighted stories of resilience, solidarity and progress, reminding the global community that inclusion is not only possible but is already being actively cultivated in communities across every region.

At the same time, the organizations stressed that major challenges remain. In 65 countries, governments still maintain laws that criminalize consensual same-sex relations between adults in private. In seven of these countries, such acts can be punished with the death penalty, while in five others legal certainty remains absent. Only 12 countries provide constitutional protection against discrimination based on sexual orientation, five based on gender identity, only one based on gender expression, and none based on sex characteristics.

Despite these realities, UNDP and ILGA World emphasized that perseverance continues to prevail. Around the world, brave human rights defenders dedicate their courage and actions—often at great personal risk—to ensure that people of all genders and backgrounds are empowered to be themselves and thrive.

The International Pride Awards highlighted this work and shared these stories to inspire others and build momentum for the change many wish to see in the world.

The 2026 award categories were: Movement Building in the Face of Hostility, Celebrating Diverse Lives, Emerging Leader, Lifetime Devoted to Equality, and Extraordinary Ally. Awardees from low- and middle-income countries also received grants of USD 10,000 to support their work.

Nominations for the second edition of the International Pride Awards opened from 17 March to 17 April 2026 through the awards’ website. UNDP and ILGA World invited nominations for individuals whose tireless efforts have had a significant impact in advancing equality and inclusion for LGBTIQ+ people, from grassroots initiatives to international advocacy efforts.

A committee composed of experienced LGBTIQ+ activists, advocates and human rights leaders selected the awardees.

“Equality is fundamental to sustainable development,” said Mandeep Dhaliwal, Director of HIV, Health and Development Programmes at UNDP. “When LGBTIQ+ people are excluded, criminalized or left unprotected, societies as a whole are diminished.”

For her part, Julia Ehrt, Executive Director of ILGA World, said the awards honored the courageous individuals paving the way for progress and change.

Through this initiative, the organizations provided a platform to recognize and celebrate those whose leadership strengthens movements, promotes dignity and expands opportunities, reinforcing the fundamental principle that no one should be left behind.