By Mandy Jolley, Senior Program Manager, Global Crisis Management
A recent survey from Business Travel Show Europe revealed a pressing gap in travel program inclusivity: 55% of corporate travel buyers do not offer any specific considerations for LGBTQIA+ travelers – and only 9% expect that to change this year.
This isn’t just a policy gap. It’s a potential risk. LGBTQIA+ employees may encounter legal, cultural, and safety challenges when traveling, particularly in regions where their identity may be criminalized or socially stigmatized. Without inclusive practices, companies could be leaving their people and their duty of care – exposed.
The business case for inclusive travel
The global LGBTQIA+ travel market is expected to exceed $357 billion this year, with many professionals traveling for business as well as leisure. But while the traveler base evolves, many corporate travel programs lag behind – failing to reflect the diversity of their workforce.
“We are seeing increased risk to minority groups of travelers,” says Carolyn Pearson, CEO of inclusive travel safety experts Maiden Voyage, a BCD marketplace partner. “Whether it’s transgender employees facing passport issues or same-sex couples navigating hostile environments, the need for proactive, inclusive travel policies is urgent.”
“There is still important work to be done to support minority groups when it comes to traveling for business,” said Jonathan Carter-Chapman of Business Travel Show Europe.
Forward-looking travel policies aren’t only about risk mitigation. They’re also about employee well-being, productivity, and retention. When people feel supported, they’re better equipped to perform at their best – on the road and at work.
What inclusion looks like in practice
Inclusive travel programs don’t require a complete overhaul. Often, thoughtful, targeted changes make the biggest difference. Consider:
- Risk assessments for destinations where local laws or cultural attitudes may present challenges to LGBTQIA+ travelers
- Opt-in support services, such as destination-specific safety briefings
- Partnerships with LGBTQIA+-friendly suppliers, hotels, and airlines
- Training for travel managers and HR teams on inclusive travel best practices
- Updated travel insurance and emergency plans that reflect the needs of diverse travelers
Make inclusion part of your travel risk strategy
Supporting LGBTQIA+ travelers isn’t just about compliance – it’s about care. Corporate travel policies should evolve to support all employees, in every location, throughout the entire travel journey.
A Traveler Security Program Assessment can help identify gaps, build resilience, and ensure your policies are inclusive, responsive, and ready for today’s workforce.
Because when companies say “bring your whole self to work,” that should extend to every business trip too.
