The Minister for Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation, José Manuel Albares, held a meeting on Monday with representatives of leading national LGBTI+ organisations to hear firsthand their priorities, demands and proposals regarding the State’s foreign action, with the aim of continuing to strengthen a coherent, inclusive foreign policy committed to human rights.
During the meeting, held at the Ministry’s headquarters, Albares reiterated the Spanish Government’s firm commitment to defending and promoting the rights of LGBTI+ people, both domestically and through the State’s foreign action, and expressed his gratitude for the leadership and work of organised civil society, which have been essential to the progress achieved in recent years. Representatives from the State LGTBI+ Federation, the Triángulo Foundation, AEGAL, Kaleidos, Galehi, the CERMI, ADI LGTBI+, the 26 December Foundation and the Pedro Zerolo Foundation took part in the meeting.
Spain, an international reference in terms of equality
The Minister welcomed the fact that, in 2026, for the first time in its history, Spain ranks first in ILGA-Europe’s European LGBTI+ Rights Index, reflecting a long-standing track record in guaranteeing and extending rights, as well as our country’s role as an international benchmark.
During the meeting, Albares emphasised that the leadership of civil society is essential to consolidate the progress made and to continue moving towards a fairer and more equal society. In this regard, he highlighted that this commitment takes on particular significance in the current international context, marked by a growing challenge to sexual and gender diversity rights, with more than 60 countries where homosexuality remains illegal and recent legislative crackdowns in various regions of the world.
In line with the Government’s commitment, the MFA has promoted various initiatives over the past year to strengthen foreign action in the field of LGBTI+ rights. Notable examples include the creation of the post of Ambassador-at-Large for LGBTI+ Rights and the co-chairmanship, alongside Colombia, of the Equal Rights Coalition, through which joint declarations with broad international support have been promoted in collaboration with civil society. Similarly, Spain participates actively in international forums and spearheaded the organisation of the first event specifically dedicated to international cooperation and diversity, within the framework of the International Conference on Financing for Development. All of this is complemented by sustained action in the multilateral sphere, including within the United Nations Human Rights Council, of which Spain is a member until 2027.
As part of the celebrations for LGBTI+ Pride 2026, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation will also demonstrate its institutional support by flying LGBTI+ flags at its headquarters and illuminating the façades of the Palacio de Santa Cruz and the Marqués de Salamanca buildings in the colours of the rainbow flag. Through initiatives such as this meeting, the Ministry reaffirms its commitment to active diplomacy in defence of equality, non-discrimination and human rights worldwide.
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—NON OFFICIAL TRANSLATION—