Concerns have been raised about the future of LGBTQ+ rights in Colombia after the government of President Abelardo de la Espriella withdrew the country from the Equal Rights Coalition (ERC), one of the world’s largest international alliances promoting LGBTQ+ equality.

Founded in 2016, the ERC brings together more than 40 governments and civil society organisations to develop strategies aimed at strengthening LGBTQ+ rights around the world. Britain and Ireland are among its members. The coalition’s priorities include tackling violence against LGBTQ+ people, ending discrimination and promoting social inclusion.

On 17 September, Colombia’s foreign ministry announced the country’s immediate withdrawal from the coalition, despite Colombia having been selected to serve as the ERC’s co-chair alongside Spain for the 2025-27 period.