1. As we mark the 75^th Anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, this year’s theme for the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOT) – “Together Always: United in Diversity” - is a timely reminder that all human beings, regardless of who they are, whom they love, and how they see and define themselves, are born free and equal in dignity and rights.
2. We have seen a rise in anti-LGBTI rhetoric, fuelled by disinformation and false narratives, often leading to violence, harassment and stigmatisation. Reports from the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association (ILGA), the EU Fundamental Rights Agency (FRA), European Commission against Racism and Intolerance (ECRI) or the Commissioner for Human Rights of the Council of Europe point to increasing levels of violence, discrimination, and exclusion of LGBTI persons in Europe. We are deeply concerned about the situation – within Europe and worldwide. Conflicts, crises and humanitarian emergencies often further increase the vulnerability of the LGBTI persons.
3. It is unacceptable that human rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex persons continue to be violated and abused on the basis of perceived or actual sexual orientation and gender identity. Sexual orientation and gender identity are not to be repressed or changed. As stated by the Commissioner for Human Rights, they are an expression of the rich diversity of human beings. We support the Commissioner’s call on Council of Europe member states to take decisive measures to eliminate in particular so-called conversion practices, to fight hate speech and hate crime across our continent and to allow for the full enjoyment of freedom of expression of all. The Council of Europe should play a leading role to promote the universal decriminalization of homosexuality.
4. We welcome positive developments, such as improved legal protections in some countries, often thanks to tireless efforts by civil society. The European Union is a staunch supporter of civil society organisations and defenders of the human rights of LGBTI persons. We also take note of the evolving caselaw of the European Court of Human Rights, such as in the Fedotova and Others v. Russia Grand Chamber judgement of January this year.
5. The EU will continue its efforts, including in multilateral fora, to protect and promote the full enjoyment of human rights by LGBTI persons in all spheres of their lives; within the EU and around the world. Today we stand with all – United in Diversity.

The following countries align with this statement: Albania, Andorra, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Liechtenstein, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Norway, San Marino, Serbia, Ukraine and United Kingdom