Far-right ideologies frequently champion traditional social structures and often view LGBTQ+ identities as a threat to these perceived norms. This perspective translates directly into policy proposals and rhetoric that aim to undermine existing LGBTQ+ rights and prevent further progress.

In countries where far-right parties have gained power, we’ve seen:

• Attempts to reverse marriage equality: Even in nations where same-sex marriage is legal, there have been efforts to re-open debates or introduce legislation that would restrict or even annul these rights. Nigel Farage is open to the fact they he voted against same-sex marriage in the UK and continues to defend his stance on this, although he hasn’t in my knowledge stated how he feels about Civil Partnerships.
• Restrictions on gender-affirming care: Transgender individuals, in particular, often face the brunt of far-right hostility, with efforts to limit access to healthcare, legal recognition, and public spaces.
• “Don’t Say Gay” laws and educational censorship: Legislation that prohibits the discussion of LGBTQ+ issues in schools or removes inclusive educational materials is a common tactic, aiming to erase LGBTQ+ experiences and identities from public consciousness. The LGBTQ+ community in the UK are fearful that the Tory’s controversial and demonstrably damaging Section 28 of the 80s which was finally revoked may see a return under a far-right government.
• Increased difficulty in asylum for LGBTQ+ refugees: Those fleeing persecution in their home countries often find it harder to gain asylum in nations with far-right governments, despite facing significant threats due to their sexual orientation or gender identity. Again, in the UK Kemi Badenoch has stated she would, if her party was voted into Government, abolish persecution due to sexual orientation as a means of gaining asylum in the UK.

Perhaps the most tangible and terrifying consequence of this societal shift is the undeniable rise in homophobic and transphobic abuse and attacks. When far-right ideologies gain a foothold in public discourse, they create an environment where prejudice is normalized, and hatred is emboldened.

• Normalisation of prejudice: When political figures and media personalities express anti-LGBTQ+ views, it can give permission to individuals to act on their own prejudices.
• Incitement of violence: Heated rhetoric, particularly online, can easily escalate from hateful words to physical violence.
• Underreporting: Many hate crimes against LGBTQ+ individuals go unreported due to fear of further discrimination, lack of trust in authorities, or the belief that nothing will be done.

Evidence from various sources supports this alarming trend:

• Government statistics: Data from the Home Office in the UK has consistently shown increases in hate crimes motivated by sexual orientation and gender identity in recent years.
• Charity reports: LGBTQ+ charities and advocacy groups frequently report a significant increase in calls for help and reports of abuse from their service users.
• Personal testimonies: The most powerful evidence comes from the lived experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals who report feeling less safe in public spaces, experiencing more verbal abuse, and facing physical assault.

For instance, consider the rising fear among many trans individuals when simply using public restrooms, a fear exacerbated by constant media sensationalism and political debate around their fundamental right to exist.

Sadly, admittedly never directed at me (a gay man), I too have witnessed the support and reposting on social media by close friends and even family of far-right, anti-LGBTQ+ sentiment. Supporting the abolition of our rights, amplifying their annoyance towards any celebration of our community. The overwhelming majority of these repostings originate in far-right media feeds. When I’ve tried to discuss with friends and family members about how their support for these posts negatively affect me and may in the long-term even be dangerous for me, the response has been worrying. I’ve been mocked, patronised, told to grow up and even on one occasion told that the negative effect having a far-right government would have on the LGBTQ+ community (which includes me and my partner) was worth it for all the ‘positive stuff’ it would bring.