At World Pride, on 6 August 2026, the SOGIESC Unit of the Council of Europe, together with the European Forum of LGBTI+ Christian Groups, presents their new communication toolkit, “Countering Hate Speech and Strengthening Words of Inclusion: The Use of Language by Religious Actors and Communities of Faith”, as part of the Religious Pride track of the Human Rights Conference.

The toolkit consists of:

• a practical guide offering actionable strategies to help religious leaders and communities engage constructively with their traditions, foster inclusive language, and counter hate speech; and
• a series of educational videos designed for use in educational, pastoral and dialogue settings, including training programmes and human rights education initiatives.

Religious Pride creates space for reflection, celebration, dialogue and meeting, and is accessible to everyone regardless of religious background or belief, making it a timely setting for the launch of this toolkit. In addition to its presentation, the session also highlights practical uses of both guide and videos and possible dissemination pathways in the months to come.

This initiative takes place in the framework of the European Union/Council of Europe joint project “Combating Anti-LGBTIQ Violence and Hate Speech, and Strengthening Awareness and Fact-based Narratives about LGBTIQ People.”