LGBTI Intergroup addressed a letter on Burundi to Josep Borrell Fontelles – High Representative/Vice-President of the European Commission

Recent homophobic statements were made by President Evariste Ndayishimiye of Burundi who described homosexuality as a “curse to the country” and called on citizens to stone homosexuals. Such remarks not only undermine the principles of equality and human rights but also pose a significant threat to the safety and well-being of LGBTIQ+ communities in Burundi and beyond.

On 18 January, a letter by the LGBTI Intergroup was sent to Josep Borrell Fontelles, High Representative/Vice-President of the European Commission. In the letter, the MEPs expressed their concerns regarding homophobic statements by Burundi’s president, as well as developments in Uganda, Ghana and other African countries and asked of the HRVP and EEAS a Position Statement. They also reiterated their calls from the resolution on universal decriminalization of homosexuality in the light of recent developments in Uganda of April 2023. Immediate actions need to be taken to stop this dangerous anti-LGBTIQ+ trend and spreading of a broad anti-gender movement.

Press contacts:
Kim van Sparrentak: lowie.kok@europarl.europa.eu
Marc Angel: daniel.constantinides@europarl.europa.eu