In the present report, the Independent Expert on protection against violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity, Victor Madrigal Borloz, explores the impact of colonialism and decolonization on the continued formation and perpetuation of harmful social mores associated with sexual orientation and gender identity, and how these relate to the enjoyment of human rights. He analyses colonialism as one of the root causes of violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity, and he proposes measures to foster protection, sustainable development and peace for all persons, communities and peoples through the expansion and reform of policies within the United Nations system and by Member States.