The U.S. State Department has issued a Worldwide Caution alert ahead of Pride Month, advising LGBTQ+ travelers and their allies to remain vigilant during Pride celebrations. This unprecedented advisory emphasizes the need for heightened awareness and safety precautions.
According to John Tanzella, President and CEO of the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association (IGLTA), this advisory reflects the growing focus on LGBTQ+ safety globally. IGLTA provides travel resources and advocates for LGBTQ+ equality and safety in over 80 countries.
The State Department’s caution comes on the same day as International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Interphobia, and Transphobia, marking the anniversary of the World Health Organization’s removal of ‘homosexuality’ as a medical diagnosis in 1990. John Clifford, founder of International Travel Management, notes that this advisory is a reminder of LGBTQ+ rights issues both domestically and internationally.
In addition to the State Department’s travel advisory, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security issued a joint public service announcement warning of potential foreign terrorist threats against LGBTQ+ events.
To ensure the safety of LGBTQ+ travelers, the State Department recommends registering for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, which provides updates on hazardous situations and assists in contacting U.S. embassies in emergencies. They also maintain a web page with specific information for LGBTQ+ travelers, including safety tips and embassy locations.
Tanzella advises consulting local Pride organizers and LGBTQ+ travel experts to understand the specific safety considerations for each destination. Pride events, such as Madrid Pride, provide travel hubs with up-to-date information on parade routes, meetup points, and potential hazards.
Travelers can also refer to data visualizations from the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association (ILGA World), which provide insights into LGBTQ+ safety by country. A 2023 index ranked Canada, Sweden, the Netherlands, Malta, Norway, Portugal, and Spain as the safest countries for LGBTQ+ travelers, while the United States ranked 25th overall.
While travelers should be aware of the risks and take necessary precautions, Tanzella believes that celebrating Pride is still crucial. ‘This advisory highlights the need for informed travel, but it doesn’t replace the joy and importance of celebrating Pride worldwide,’ he emphasized.
