Social change starts with individual LGBTI people who no longer accept being marginalised but decide to take action. Individual stories raise public awareness and expose the level of exclusion in society. Empowered LGBTI individuals serve as role models for others, and their actions form important steps in the creation of LGBTI communities.
How do we think this works? Here are a few of our assumptions:
“Empowered LGBTI people experience less psychological pressure and stress, adopt healthier lifestyles and show less (sexual) risk behaviour” (Letter B in the graphic below)
“LGBTI people who are active in the public sphere are positive role models and lead to “normalisation” in the media and in public opinion” (Letter F in the graphic below)
“Professionals are best influenced through their peers who have already been sensitised: police officers through police officers, nurses through nurses, etc.” (Letter H in the graphic below)
Capable LGBTI organisations are essential in terms of supporting individual LGBTI people, giving a voice to the LGBTI community and aligning with different players in the broader LGBTI movement. They need to function at an “operational minimum” before they can start doing advocacy effectively.
How do we think this works? Here are a few of our assumptions:
“LGBTI representation is most effective when speaking with one voice” (Letter M in the graphic below)
“For effective advocacy, community-based organisations need a sustainable approach, sufficient capacity (e.g. funds, staff) and skills (e.g. management and advocacy)” (Letter N in the graphic below)
LGBTI organisations need to cooperate to reach their joint goals, while also respecting their diversity. Change starts when they connect, begin exchanging information and become a mobilised LGBTI movement. It is when they are linked to non-LGBTI stakeholders and to broader civil society organisations that change becomes possible in society.
How do we think this works? Here are a few of our assumptions:
“The diversity and complexity of the LGBTI community demands focused and streamlined efforts to reach joint goals. Cooperation between LGBTI CBOs at all levels is essential” (Letter R in the graphic below)
“Support from the broader civil society is essential to create change. This requires networks and collaboration with non-LGBTI stakeholders” (Letter S in the graphic below)
Holding governments accountable when they violate or fail to uphold international human rights treaties to which they have committed greatly increases the pressure for change. To do this, we need strong and capable national and global LGBTI movements.
How do we think this works? Here are a few of our assumptions:
“Political and government leaders are sensitive when it comes to the image of their country, because external perceptions influence trade relations, potential foreign investments and political relations with neighbouring countries” (Letter Y in the graphic below)
“Our minister has constructive relations with countries and its political leaders, and those are crucial in reaching the overall goal of an inclusive and equitable world” (Letter Z in the graphic below)
