Traveling for work can be an exhilarating experience, but for LGBTQIA+ business travelers, it often comes with unique challenges and risks. A new survey by World Travel Protection highlights the urgent need for companies to provide more robust support for LGBTQIA+ employees who travel for business. With rising concerns about safety and discrimination, it’s crucial for organizations to implement comprehensive strategies to protect their LGBTQIA+ workforce.

The survey, conducted by Opinium, reveals a stark reality: a significant majority of business travelers are worried about visiting regions with hostile attitudes towards the LGBTQIA+ community. This concern is not unfounded, as many employees have witnessed or experienced harassment due to their gender or sexuality. Despite these challenges, few companies provide the necessary information and support to ensure the safety of their LGBTQIA+ travelers.

As we celebrate Pride Month, it’s an opportune moment for businesses to reflect on how they can better support their LGBTQIA+ employees. This article delves into the survey findings, explores the specific risks faced by LGBTQIA+ travelers, and offers actionable steps companies can take to foster a safer and more inclusive environment for all employees.

The Concerns of LGBTQIA+ Business Travelers

Business travel can be a daunting experience for many LGBTQIA+ individuals. According to the survey, 64% of US and 56% of Canadian business travelers express concern about traveling to regions known for their anti-LGBTQIA+ stance. In over 70 countries, same-sex relationships are criminalized, creating a hostile environment for travelers who identify as homosexual or transgender.

Frank Harrison, Regional Security Director Americas at World Travel Protection, emphasizes the seriousness of these concerns. “We are seeing an increased backlash against the LGBTQIA+ community in many parts of the world, including here in North America,” Harrison states. “These are real and valid fears: Members of the LGBTQIA+ community can face a range of safety concerns when they travel, including harassment, violence, incarceration, and even barriers to medical and security assistance.”

Harassment and Safety Risks on the Rise

The survey sheds light on the prevalence of harassment faced by LGBTQIA+ business travelers. In the US, 22% of respondents have witnessed or experienced harassment due to their gender or sexuality, while in Canada, the figure stands at 15%. Moreover, a significant number of travelers have had to hide their sexuality while on business trips due to safety concerns.

Half of the surveyed business travelers (56% in the US and 47% in Canada) believe that traveling for work as an LGBTQIA+ individual is less safe compared to their heterosexual or cisgender counterparts. This perception is fueled by increasing incidents of harassment and threats against LGBTQIA+ individuals, underscoring the urgent need for companies to take action.

The Gap in Company Support

Despite the evident risks, many companies fall short in providing adequate support for their LGBTQIA+ travelers. Only 15% of US and 11% of Canadian employees reported that their company provides information on LGBTQIA+ rights in the countries they are visiting. This lack of support extends to employees who have not disclosed their sexuality, highlighting a significant gap in company policies and practices.

Harrison stresses the importance of addressing these gaps. “Organizations must recognize the specific risks and concerns that LGBTQIA+ business travelers face and ensure they feel supported and safe,” he says. “When sending LGBTQIA+ employees to parts of the world where their rights are not fully recognized by the host government, there needs to be a plan in place to support them.”

Actionable Steps for Companies

To create a safer and more inclusive environment for LGBTQIA+ business travelers, Harrison offers several actionable steps that companies can take:

1. Develop and Communicate a Comprehensive Plan: Ensure all employees have access to pre-trip information, including how to access medical support specific to their needs. Clearly outline protocols for addressing any incidents that may arise.
2. Share Information with All Employees: Provide pre-trip guidance to all employees, not just those who are open about their gender identity or sexual orientation. This ensures that everyone has the information they need to stay safe.
3. Respect Employees’ Decisions on Travel: Allow employees to decide whether or not to travel based on their pre-travel awareness briefing. Encourage open dialogue and honor their decision if they deem a destination unsafe.
4. Foster an Inclusive Workplace Culture: Establish a respectful and inclusive corporate culture where all employees feel safe and valued. This foundation of support is crucial for ensuring safety while traveling.
5. Utilize Travel Risk Management Experts: Partner with travel risk management companies to understand the risks at each location. These experts can provide tailored pre-trip intelligence and resources to support LGBTQIA+ travelers.

The Role of Travel Risk Management Companies

Travel risk management companies play a pivotal role in supporting LGBTQIA+ business travelers. World Travel Protection, for instance, offers a range of services, including medical case management, evacuation, and repatriation, as well as access to virtual care services and security intelligence. These services are essential for mitigating the unique risks faced by LGBTQIA+ travelers.

By understanding and addressing these risks, companies can create a safer and more inclusive travel experience for their employees. This not only benefits LGBTQIA+ travelers but also enhances the overall safety and well-being of all employees.

Building a Safer Future for LGBTQIA+ Travelers

The findings of the World Travel Protection survey underscore the urgent need for companies to take proactive measures in supporting LGBTQIA+ business travelers. By implementing comprehensive plans, providing necessary information, and fostering an inclusive workplace culture, organizations can ensure that all employees feel safe and supported while traveling.

As we move forward, it is crucial for companies to recognize the unique challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ travelers and take actionable steps to address them. By doing so, businesses can promote a safer, more inclusive environment for all employees, both at home and abroad.

Share Your Thoughts

We want to hear from you! Have you faced challenges as an LGBTQIA+ business traveler? What steps do you think companies should take to support their LGBTQIA+ employees better? Share your thoughts, ideas, and experiences in the comments below.