International Day against Homophobia commemorated
The International Day against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia is commemorated on 17 May every year, and in light of this, the European Union reaffirmed its commitment to respect, protect and fulfil the full and equal enjoyment of human rights and fundamental freedoms of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) persons.Across the world, over 2 billion people live in countries where homosexuality is illegal, while the death penalty is retained as a legal punishment for consensual same sex relationships in eleven jurisdictions.
In a media release by the European Union, it was stated that in the past decade there have been seen signs of progress worldwide. Yet, discrimination and exclusion because of sexual orientation and gender identity persist, and we are witnessing a worrying pushback of the rights of LGBTI persons. Levels of violence against LGBTI persons are also alarming, even though largely underreported.
Armed conflicts and humanitarian emergencies put LGBTI persons at particular risk. Russia’s aggression against Ukraine has put the spotlight on LGBTI persons trying to flee the war. There have been reports of transgender persons that have been hindered from leaving the country as well as incidents of violence against LGBTI-persons. More needs to be done to offer them support, protection and safe spaces.
Young persons, in particular, face rejection by their families, homelessness and harassment online and offline based on their sexual orientation and gender identity.
This year is the European Year of Youth: young persons need to be accepted and valued for who they are. We must strive to build peaceful, inclusive societies, where everyone can thrive and feel safe.
The EU stands with all LGBTI persons and will not compromise. “We will continue to speak up for the human rights of LGBTI persons. We will combat discrimination, violence and hate speech based on sexual orientation and gender identity – in times of peace and times of conflict. We will continue our efforts to promote legal, political and financial anti-discrimination measures in close co-operation with civil society. Equality, respect for dignity and respect for diversity are at the heart of our Union. Everyone should be free to be who they are and love whom they choose without fear.”