Iceland’s Foreign Minister criticizes US President over LGBTQ+ rights policies

Iceland’s Foreign Minister, Þorgerður Katrín Gunnarsdóttir, has voiced strong criticism of the United States over its recent approach to LGBTQ+ rights, singling out a new executive order signed by President Donald Trump that addresses gender and transgender issues. The order, which has sparked backlash from advocacy groups, has been criticized for curtailing protections for transgender individuals and limiting the recognition of diverse gender identities.

In response to the developments, Gunnarsdóttir expressed concern about what she views as a troubling departure from previous U.S. policies that promoted equality and inclusivity. Her statement came in response to a declaration from Icelandic LGBTQ+ advocacy group Samtökin ’78, which highlighted the situation in the United States.

“I find it deeply concerning if we are witnessing a rapid departure from the liberal stance and approach that U.S. authorities have displayed on the international stage in this area in recent years,” she said. “We will speak clearly on the international stage, engage in dialogue with other states without hesitation and make our stance known. Human rights are universal and apply everywhere.”

Gunnarsdóttir also emphasized Iceland’s leadership in LGBTQ+ rights, claiming that the country is globally recognized for its progressive laws protecting transgender and intersex individuals. However, she warned that there is still work to be done, both domestically and internationally, to ensure full equality and protection for LGBTQ+ individuals. As part of Iceland’s tenure on the United Nations Human Rights Council, she plans to highlight these issues during an upcoming session in Geneva.

The Foreign Minister’s comments reflect growing concerns among some policy makers about global backsliding on human rights, including in democracies like the United States. She described recent developments in the U.S. as particularly troubling and maintained the need for countries to continue advocating for inclusivity, equality, and the protection of fundamental rights.

“We are all aware that setbacks have occurred in human rights issues worldwide,” she said.

Gunnarsdóttir also noted Iceland’s previous recommendations to the U.S. during its 2020 Universal Periodic Review by the UN Human Rights Council, which emphasized the importance of LGBTQ+ rights. She reaffirmed Iceland’s commitment to raising these issues with all nations undergoing similar reviews, stating,

“No individual should have to live in fear or face persecution for who they are or how they identify,” she said.