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On the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOT), the EU remains concerned about the continuing discrimination, violence, hate speech and stigmatisation affecting LGBTI persons, including on grounds of sexual orientation and gender identity. Across the world, too many LGBTI persons still face violence, discrimination, hate speech, and stigmatisation and are targeted by disinformation campaigns, simply for being who they are.
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Equality is not optional for free and resilient societies, as inequalities and discrimination undermine democratic principles and equal participation. It is a core value of the EU and a necessary condition for the functioning of democratic societies.
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Over the next years, the Commission’s new LGBTIQ+ Equality strategy, is set to strengthen protection from violence, countering hate and discrimination, including online, expanding space for people to live freely and equally, and mobilising society as a whole to deliver real equality. In doing so, the Commission will also strengthen cooperation with other international LGBTIQ+ equality expert groups and networks, including the Council of Europe’s Committee of Experts on Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity and Expression, and Sex Characteristics.
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The EU urges all states to repeal laws criminalising consensual same-sex relations and to halt the adoption of new discriminatory legislation targeting LGBTI persons. Every country should take the necessary steps to ensure that people are free to live their lives as they choose, without fear of persecution.
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The EU will continue to support LGBTI civil society organisations and human rights defenders, including through sustained and predictable funding. Their work is essential to safeguard democratic values and the rule of law, even as they face growing pressure. The EU will continue to call for strengthened protection of LGBTI human rights defenders, particularly in contexts of shrinking civic space and increasing repression.
The following countries aligned with this statement: Albania, Andorra, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Moldova, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Norway, San Marino, Serbia, Ukraine and the United Kingdom.
