MEPs condemn attack LGBTI activist in Belgrade
This Saturday, a German LGBTI rights activist was attacked in downtown Belgrade. Three suspects have been arrested by Serbian police.
The 27-year-old man suffered severe internal bleeding and head injuries and is still in the hospital.
Serbia’s Prime Minister Aleksandar Vučić condemned the attack. In an official statement he underlined that “the state will do everything to protect and respect the right to non-discrimination.”
The attack turns spotlight on the situation for LGBTI people in the candidate EU Member State.
The last three years LGBTI prides were systematically banned by authorities. Furthermore, violence against LGBTI people, as well as other minorities, is still widespread.
Sophie in ‘t Veld MEP, Vice-President-designate of the LGBTI Intergroup, reacted: “I am appalled by this violent homophobic and xenophobic attack. However, I am glad to see that the police reacted so quickly: The same day all three suspects were arrested and a protest march against the attack was well-protected by police forces.”
“I encourage Serbian authorities to continue this path and stand up against violent hooligan groups attacking minorities and undermining the rule of law.”
Daniele Viotti MEP, Co-President-designate of the LGBTI Intergroup, added: “Political leaders have finally shown leadership by univocally condemning this attack and stating they will do everything to protect LGBTI people from violence and discrimination.”
“Implementation remains key, however. I expect authorities to develop an approach to more effective inclusion of the LGBTI population and to give its explicit public support to this year’s Pride march, planned for 28 September.”
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