UK hosting the European IDAHOT+ Forum May 2027
Trans in the City fully opposes the hosting of the European IDAHOT+ Forum in the UK until such time that the UK is a fit and inclusive place for all people, including those that are trans and non-binary, to live with equality, dignity and safety.
On the ILGA Europe 2026 Rainbow map, recognised as the gold standard measurement of each country’s compliance to LGBTQIA+ equality law, the UK currently ranks joint worst in continental Europe alongside Russia and Hungary by not complying with basic human rights for trans and non-binary people.
Many trans and non-binary people in the UK are now leaving the UK or are actively planning their exit to preserve their mental and physical safety and to escape the hostility that is now part of their daily life experience.
Against this backdrop Trans in the City notes with disappointment that the UK has been selected as the host for the European IDAHOT+ Forum.
The Forum is designed to bring together member states of the European Council, government ministers, LGBTQIA+ human rights representatives and is typically attended by representatives from national and international LGBTQIA+ charities and organisations.
It is disingenuous of the UK government to position itself as a leader of LGBTQIA+ rights and that it values trans and non-binary people’s equal place in UK society when it is actively excluding them from everyday life and healthcare.
Trans in the City and its team members have decades of senior business experience including negotiating at a high level and we fully understand the value of compromise and of “being in the room” to be heard and understood.
True and meaningful negotiation is dependent on trust, however, with its current loudly articulated anti-trans position and reversal of basic human rights, there is currently no basis of trust with which to negotiate with the government.
We have a history of open discussion and pragmatism however there is no point being in the room when the counterparty’s position is that it doesn’t want you in the country.
We will not be supporting or participating in any of the activities or sessions associated with IDAHOT ’27 and we recommend that any person or organisation, national or international, that purports to have the safety, welfare and wellbeing of trans and non-binary people as part of its remit to reflect on their participation.
In our view being part of this event, despite the wonderful work of the Council of Europe, is tantamount to supporting and endorsing the UK’s anti-trans position and direction.
#NoIDAHOTinUK
#UKNotSafe