Membership
ILGA World is a worldwide federation of over 2,300 organisations from more than 170 countries and territories across the globe and we continue to grow every year.
All members must agree to fully adhere to the Constitution, Code of Conduct, Standing Orders and values of ILGA World.
If your organisation is interested in becoming a part of our global family, there are two types of membership:
Full membership is open to:
- non-profit organisations representing lesbianadjective/noun to describe a woman whose enduring physical, romantic, and/or emotional attraction is to other women. Women and non-binary people may use this term to describe themselves. More, gayadjective to describe people whose enduring physical, romantic, and/ or emotional
attractions are to people of the same gender. Men, women and non-binary people may use this
term to describe themselves. More, bisexualadjective used to describe a person who has the capacity to form enduring physical, romantic, and/ or emotional attractions to those of the same gender or to those of other genders. More, transadjective/umbrella term to describe a person whose gender identity does not match the sex they were assigned at birth. More, and intersexan umbrella term for the spectrum of variations of sex characteristics that naturally occur within the human species. Intersex people are born with variations of sex characteristics (such as genitals, reproductive organs, hormonal and chromosomal patterns) that are more diverse than stereotypical definitions of male or female bodies. Up to 1.7% of the global population are born with such traits; yet, because their bodies are seen as different, intersex children and adults are often stigmatised and subject to harmful practices – including in medical settings - and discriminated against. More people, their culture, or providing exclusive service to — or support for — them; - branches of the above-mentioned organisations;
- non-profit groups representing lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, and intersex people within other organisations — such as trade unions and political parties.
Associate membership is open to any other organisation or association — typically: commercial LGBTIacronym for lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and intersex people. Although this is not the acronym available to describe people of diverse sexual orientations, gender identities and expressions, and sex characteristics, it is the most commonly used in United Nations spaces and advocacy. More organisations, governmental organisations, non-LGBTI voluntary organisations, or trade unions.
Does your organisation want to become a member? Follow this link to apply!
The executive board of ILGA World will review your application during its next meeting, and our secretariat will get in touch with you shortly after that.
Benefits of being a ILGA World member
Networking & global solidarity
ILGA World provides its members with access to the global and regional network of over 1800 organisations working towards a stronger LGBTI movement. You can consent to share and request contact info of member organisations to meet, share innovative ideas and practices, and build partnerships that can help your organisation better fulfil its missions.
ILGA World’s resources for networking are not limited to the membership database: there are occasions where our members can have encounters with affiliated intergovernmental and governmental bodies, universities, and businesses through our regional and global gatherings, both virtually and in person. Together, we are stronger.
Queer democracy in action
Full members play a vital role in formulating the direction and work of ILGA World by casting their votes to elect (nominated) candidates, proposing changes to its governing documents, choosing the next World Conference host and holding office in the highest Governing Body of ILGA World. Associate members, despite not enjoying suffrage, can become observers during the General Assemblythe main deliberative and policy-making organ of the United Nations which makes decisions on international issues such as development and peace and security. All 193 member States are represented, and each has one vote. More.
Capacity building
ILGA World supports its member organisations to elevate the voices of our communities to be heard in multilateral international spaces, including the United Nationsan international organisation comprising 193 member States. It has the mission of maintaining peace and security, protecting human rights, providing humanitarian aid and ensuring economic and social development across the globe. It is a network of many different bodies and agencies, each of which has a particular role and responsibility. More (UN). Member organisations are supported in their advocacy efforts through capacity building.
We guide member organisations towards enhanced advocacy through online training sessions on how to effectively use national, regional and supranational human rights mechanisms to advance the rights of LGBTI persons worldwide. Where possible, representatives from member organisations are sponsored to attend in-person UN events such as the Human Rights Councilan inter-governmental body within the United Nations which has the responsibility to promote and protect human rights. It is comprised of 47 member States, each elected to 3-year terms by the 193 member States of the United Nations. More, treaty body mechanisms, and the High-Level Political Forum.
Media services
ILGA World actively gathers and disseminates information about the global situation of LGBTI persons. Our members receive dedicated communications, have the opportunity to be involved in campaigns run by ILGA World, and are regularly featured on our social media platforms to introduce themselves and present their work to our global LGBTI community. Additionally, we give our members recognition on our official website.
Global and regional gatherings
In-person and virtual gatherings are essential components that help us build strength for our global fight for equality all across the world. Among the in-person meetings, the ILGA World Conference is held every 3 years. Bringing together LGBTI activists, representatives from (inter)governmental organisations, and community leaders, the ILGA World Conference is the largest global gathering of LGBTI changemakers.
Likewise, our 6 regional offices hold their own conference (bi)annually. Focusing on regional-level matters throughout these events, our members can enjoy a wide array of sessions closely concerning our global movement at a regional level. Eligible representatives from our members can benefit from the priority in receiving the full scholarship to attend the conferences, as well as the priority in securing a spot when there is a limit to the number of participants. Besides, ILGA World provides substantially reduced rates for its members.
Does your organisation want to become a member? Follow this link to apply!
The executive board of ILGA World will review your application during its next meeting, and our secretariat will get in touch with you shortly after that