Millions of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex and queer (LGBTIQ+) people worldwide continue to experience injustice simply because they are who they are and because they love who they love.I am deeply concerned about ongoing violence and hate speech against LGBTIQ+ people, their continued criminalization and harassment, and new attempts to further marginalize them - in education and employment, health care, sports and housing.In many countries, LGBTIQ+ people are subjected to deeply harmful practices, including so-called "conversion therapy", forced surgery and treatment, and degrading examinations.At the same time, they are among the marginalized groups hardest hit by the world's many interconnected crises - from the COVID-19 pandemic to the climate crisis, to ongoing conflicts and rising inequality.LGBTIQ+ people have the same basic human rights as everyone else.The solutions are therefore obvious.We must combat violence against LGBTIQ+ people, ban harmful practices, bring justice and help to victims, and end persecution, discrimination and criminalization.We must address the root causes of the marginalization of LGBTIQ+ people, fully delivering on the 2030 Agenda's promise of leaving no one behind.The United Nations is proud to promote and uphold the fundamental human rights and dignity of all people, including LGBTIQ+ people.I call on everyone to join us in creating a world of peace, inclusion, freedom and equality for all.