“This is an historic recommendation, the first international instrument to comprehensively address the human rights of intersex people, a group whose rights and needs are regularly overlooked,” said Helen Belcher (United Kingdom, ILDG), Congress Rapporteur on the freedom of expression and assembly of LGBTI persons, in Strasbourg on 27 October 2025.

Speaking at the launch of the Council of Europe Committee of Ministers’ recommendation on equal rights for intersex persons and the kick-off  of the #EuropeGoesPurple campaign, the Congress Rapporteur pointed out that the recommendation marked a turning point, not only for national governments, but also for local and regional authorities, who are on the frontline when it comes to implementing policies in relevant areas such as healthcare and education.

”Subnational authorities can provide training for local health professionals, or ensure pathways for psychological and peer support for intersex youth and their families. They can work with schools to embed inclusive curricula and establish anti-bullying policies while also promoting training for teachers and school staff to recognise and address bias or exclusion,“ Ms Belcher explained.

“Intersex people often lack visibility in public life, policy-making, and human rights protection in many communities across Europe, and yet the challenges they face regularly are considerable. It is right that authorities at every level of government protect their rights, so that their dignity is upheld and their full inclusion is achieved in every aspect of life, and in accordance with European standards,” she concluded.