Public Services International The global union federation of workers in public services

Public sector unions play a critical role in educating and leading the community to a better understanding of LGBT+ issues, by using the workplace as a powerful and rare opportunity to reach across family, cultural and class divisions to engage and educate.

PSI and affiliates help raise LGBT+ voices, both within the trade union movement and within our communities. We will continue our fight to break down stereotypes, promote policies that respect diversity and ensure more inclusive and respectful workplaces, public services, unions and societies.

In 2000 same-sex marriage did not exist anywhere. Today one billion people around the world live in one of the 29 countries that allow same-sex marriage. Yet same-sex relationships are considered a crime in more than 70 countries, sometimes punishable by death.

In the workplace, LGBT+ workers continue to cope with mockery and violence. Their career progression is often blocked by their actual or perceived sexual orientation and gender identity.

Hiding an element of one's identity from colleagues can have terrible consequences, with many studies showing that the suicide rate is significantly higher among the LGBT+ population.

A recent study by the Harvard Business Review found these stresses can negatively impact workplace participation and engagement.

Trade unions have a duty to help create more inclusive workplaces, including through collective bargaining.

All over the world these sorts of prejudices remain stubborn. Work places, whether private or public, are not yet the safe spaces for all identities which they should be. Even companies which implement "diversity" policies often do not explicitly target the criterion of sexual orientation.

Trade unions have a duty to help create more inclusive workplaces, including through collective bargaining. We must also take a stand, unequivocally, against attacks that challenge LGBT+ rights, acquired after hard battles. Within our own ranks, we must get rid of all stereotypes that remain.

Diversity is an asset, not a problem.

We need to recognize the importance of cooperation and cohabitation. It is healthy and productive to have an inclusive work climate. Coming out works better!

There are still too few LGBT+ trade union leaders, internal groups of LGBT+ employees, or union engagement in Pride struggles.

Public service workers have a key role to play in this fight. It is up to us to deliver a public service that is based on equality and respect for diversity, encouraging social and economic justice among all communities, including LGBT+.

Public Services International and Education International have done a considerable amount of joint work to advance LGBT+ equality. Today, trade unions are involved in national and international work to protect LGBT+ workers’ rights, in the same way they take action to protect many groups and individuals who face prejudice and discrimination.