EU Institutions mark International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia

Almost all major EU institutions marked yesterday’s International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia (IDAHOT). The European Parliament, the European Commission and the European External Action Service all issued statements on this occasion.

Federica Mogherini, High Representative of the EU

The High Representative of the European Union, issued a written statement on behalf of the EU, affirming the EU’s commitment to refuse discrimination on any grounds.

“On this International Day against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia, the EU stands together with LGBTI people all around the world in the struggle to end discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation and gender identity. All human beings are equal in dignity and all are entitled to enjoy their rights as enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

[…] the EU will continue to advocate measures to combat discrimination and violence against LGBTI persons, and to actively promote their rights.”

Read the full statement by Federica Mogherini

Věra Jourová, Commissioner for Justice

Commissioner Jourová issued a video message and a statement, affirming her commitment to the adoption of EU anti-discrimination legislation, including on the grounds of sexual orientation.

“We are all born equal in dignity and rights. I am working in close cooperation with Member States to win their support on the Equal Treatment Directive, providing further protection from discrimination. It is my aim to secure its adoption as soon as possible.

[…] Only by eliminating discrimination, we can ensure that every individual is given the opportunity of full participation in our social and economic life. “

Read the full statement by Commissioner Jourová

Watch the video message by Commissioner Jourová

Dimitrios Papadimoulis and Ulrike Lunacek, Vice-Presidents of the European Parliament

Also the European Parliament issued a statement, with statements by Vice-Presidents Dimitrios Papadimoulis and Ulrike Lunacek.

“Discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation is illegal and is prohibited in the EU. The European Parliament together with  civil society has had a strong influence on this.”

“The fight for equality continues daily. The whole of society needs to take an active role in reducing prejudice as this is an aspect that affects everyone.”

President of the European Parliament Martin Schulz tweeted: “Much still to be done to end discrimination & homophobia outside and inside EU. A political as well as cultural battle.”

Read the full press release by the European Parliament

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