As the political climate intensifies under the shadow of far-right ideologies, the Trump administration’s impact on the LGBTQ community has reverberated beyond American borders, fuelling similar sentiments globally. The urgency of LGBTQ rights is underscored by numerous activists in the United States who, facing increasing transphobia and homophobia, contemplate leaving the nation for more accepting environments. Unfortunately, few places are currently free from this alarming trend of right-wing backlash against LGBTQ individuals.

Previously viewed as a progressive leader, the UK has witnessed a significant regression in LGBTQ rights following the recent ruling by the Supreme Court, which defined a woman strictly by "biological sex" determined at birth. This has drawn significant criticism, particularly from trans activists and allies who see it as a setback that echoes the sentiments of right-wing populism. Keir Starmer’s support for this ruling has led to disillusionment among those who hoped for a more inclusive approach from the Labour Party.

Beyond Britain's shores, Hungary has taken even more drastic steps against LGBTQ rights. The parliament recently passed a constitutional amendment that effectively bans public LGBTQ events, a measure justified by the ruling party's claims that such events threaten children’s rights. Prime Minister Viktor Orbán's government, which aligns closely with nationalist ideologies, frames these restrictions within the broader context of "Christian illiberal democracy," thus prioritising a selective moral framework over human rights.

Similarly, the situation in Uganda is particularly dire, where the Anti-Homosexuality Act of 2023 has introduced the death penalty for “aggravated homosexuality.” This draconian legislation has elicited widespread condemnation from global human rights advocates and institutions. However, the Ugandan regime, bolstered by the rhetoric of anti-colonialism, continues to position these repressive measures as an assertion of sovereignty against what it views as Western moral imposition, despite being underwritten by evangelical funding from abroad.

The proliferation of anti-LGBTQ policies is not merely a local or national issue; it is a global phenomenon. Countries traditionally associated with upholding "liberal values," such as Canada and New Zealand, are not immune to far-right pressures shaping public discourse around LGBTQ rights. The backlash against these rights is often framed in economic terms. For instance, the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank have been implicated in promoting austerity measures that disproportionately impact LGBTQ individuals in Africa, thereby exacerbating existing vulnerabilities.

Such attacks appear to stem from a broader crisis within capitalism, marked by escalating nationalism and mounting imperialist tensions since the 2008 financial crisis. Exploiting sentiments of disillusionment and discontent, far-right entities are employing LGBTQ scapegoating as a tool to regain control and rally national unity. For example, Javier Milei’s recent actions in Argentina—shutting down key ministries addressing gender and diversity—demonstrate how the rhetoric of a "war on wokeness" serves as a cover for wider assaults on social programmes.

Amid this backdrop, the role of systemic capitalist politics cannot be ignored. Ideological divides among political parties often leave LGBTQ issues sidelined or manipulated for electoral gain. In Hungary, potential opposition leader Péter Magyar has narrowly focused his campaign on broadly appealing issues while notably avoiding strong advocacy for LGBTQ rights, underscoring a pattern of politicians prioritising tactical considerations over genuine efforts to support marginalized communities. This mirrors situations faced in the US, where the Democratic Party has at times exploited LGBTQ voting blocs only to retreat from commitments once in power.

Resistance, however, is not merely a passive reaction. Across the globe, there are emerging movements staunchly opposing anti-LGBTQ legislation. In Hungary, protests against the recent constitutional amendments have spilled into public highways and streets, galvanising a resolve among activists. Similarly, protests in Serbia and Germany indicate that the far-right's grip on power is not uncontested; there is a growing collective movement among working classes.

Ultimately, the fight for LGBTQ rights must be integrated with broader struggles against capitalism and its systems of oppression. The history of victories for LGBTQ people reflects a deeper connection to the struggles of all exploited groups. The legislative changes and social movements entwined with issues of discrimination hold significance that transcends individual identities, revealing a shared fight against systemic injustices. The intersection of LGBTQ liberation with labour movements highlights the need for solidarity among all working people.

Opposition to the incremental rollbacks of rights across the globe necessitates a unified and sustained effort. The legacy left by movements in Sudan, where harsh penalties for homosexuality were repealed in the wake of revolutionary change, serves as an inspiration. Building alliances across diverse movements aiming to dismantle the oppressive capitalist framework and advocating for socialist alternatives may offer a way forward, fostering a world that embraces true equity and freedom for all, irrespective of gender identity or sexual orientation.

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Source: Noah Wire Services