NEW YORK - Access to safe, inclusive, and quality education remains out of reach for many lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and other gender-diverse (LGBT) learners, who continue to face widespread violence, discrimination and exclusion in schools worldwide, a UN expert said today.
In his latest report to the UN General Assembly, Graeme Reid, the Independent Expert on protection against violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity, warned that hostile school environments undermine not only the right to education but also broader human rights commitments to equality and dignity for all.
"Education is not only a fundamental human right in itself, but also a multiplier of rights," Reid said. "When LGBT persons are denied inclusive access to education, the principles of equality and justice for all are undermined. Every learner deserves to thrive in a school that is safe, respectful and inclusive."
The report finds that LGBT students experience disproportionate rates of bullying, harassment and violence, often from peers, and sometimes from educators and administrators. Many face exclusion, forced outing and punitive disciplinary measures, while supportive teachers may encounter stigmatisation and retaliation. In numerous countries, restrictive laws prohibit discussion of sexual orientation and gender identity, fostering misinformation and silencing educators who seek to create inclusive learning environments.
Trans and gender-diverse learners face particular barriers, including the denial of gender recognition in school records, dress codes and access to facilities aligned with their gender identity, the expert said. These patterns of discrimination contribute to elevated dropout rates, poorer mental health outcomes and long-term exclusion from education and employment.
The report highlights positive examples from countries where inclusive curricula, anti-bullying programmes and teacher training have strengthened respect for diversity and human rights in education.
"Education must empower all learners to understand and respect diversity," Reid said. "States have an urgent obligation to ensure that no child is left behind because of their gender identity or sexual orientation. Inclusive education benefits everyone: it builds safer schools, stronger communities, and fairer societies."
The Independent Expert urged States to adopt inclusive anti-discrimination laws, integrate comprehensive sexuality and health education into school curricula, ensure recognition of gender identity in educational settings, and provide safe and confidential reporting mechanisms for learners. He also called for stronger partnerships between Governments, educators and civil society to promote inclusive and affirming learning environments for all.
