The EUROPEAN UNION is happy and honoured to collaborate with BANANA EMOJI to host events such as this one in order to foster dialogues among the youth and the LGBTIQ+ communities in Botswana. This is the second collaboration between Banana Emoji Productions and the Delegation of European Union in Botswana.

The EU’s Strategy for LGBTIQ+ Equality proposes to integrate the fight against discrimination affecting LGBTIQ+ people in all EU policies, including in our external policy and, among other actions, to promote inclusion and diversity in the workplace.

The strategy addresses inclusion in the workplace because diverse and inclusive work environments help to create equal opportunities in the labour market and improve business outcomes. Diversity and inclusion are crucial to stimulating new ideas and fostering an innovative, thriving society. For example, there is a proven correlation between LGBTIQ+ inclusion and returns on assets, innovation and productivity.

The EU Delegation has over the years supported your communities including funding for media training in order to sensitise them on reporting on LGBTIQ+ issues. We have also consistently supported the commemoration of the International Day Against Homophobia.

I wish to thank you all who shared their different experiences today and hope that these dialogues will help us achieve more inclusive and diverse work environments in Botswana.

I thank you and look forward to future dialogues.