The Global Disability Summit has just concluded in Berlin. It was a vibrant affair, packed full of organisations of persons with disabilities, governments, academics and innovators. The UK's delegation was led by Sir Stephen Timms, Minister for Social Security and Disability.

Really informative and quite alarming. Do listen open.spotify.com/episode/2gTK...

Today FCDO Minister Anneliese Dodds will meet survivors of FGM to discuss what more the UK can do to accelerate progress to bring this violation of rights to an end. #EndFGM @fcdoinclusion.bsky.social

Before getting serious in the New Year, here’s a calming picture of the Highland Coos in the snowy hills near my house..

That’s the Equal Rights Coalition in Berlin wrapped up. A heartening coming together of over 45 member states and 200+ CSOs. But we are running headlong towards a precipice of funding cuts for organisations on the front line, as rights for LGBT+ people are under extreme and ever-increasing threat.

On a panel discussing countering LGBT+ rights pushback at the Equal Rights Coalition Conference, the UK made clear our commitment to inclusive and sustainable funding for LGBT+ rights organisations💸🌈 #EqualSafeFree

Important to be part of this delegation demonstrating UK commitment to protect LGBT+ rights at this worrying moment in time. It’s great to have our delegation led by Dame Andrea Eagle, a long standing champion.

Hope you can open this link as I’m not sure anyone could say this better. It’s not a big ask. Just equal rights for all. www.facebook.com/share/v/1B88...

Happy International Day of Persons with Disabilities!

Just giving a public shout out to the small but impressive team behind FCDO’s global efforts to end gender-based violence, early and forced child marriage, and FGM. #16daystoendviolence @fcdoinclusion.bsky.social

Here’s some more detail on the new action to tackle violence against women. www.gov.uk/government/n...

Two very committed Ministers (for the price of one!) kick started 16 days of Activism to End Violence Against Women - Home Office Minister @jessphillipsmp.bsky.social and FCDO International Development Minister Anneliese Dodds. A small snippet of a much greater effort both at home and overseas.

Happy World Toilet Day (and coincidentally, happy birthday to me 🥂) www.un.org/en/observanc...

Like many, off X and trying this.. Let’s start with a couple of pictures from my visit to the Alhambra last week. Magical creative mindset of the Moors back in the 13th century.