International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia: ‘Criminalisation of consensual same-sex relations must end,’ EU says

“Equality is not optional, it is the bedrock of free and resilient societies,” EU High Representative Kaja Kallas said in a statement ahead of the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia, observed on 17 May.

On behalf of the European Union, Kallas reaffirmed the Union’s strong commitment to uphold the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights by LGBTI persons.

“We are now witnessing a global pushback against universal human rights. Discrimination is intensifying, including on grounds of sexual orientation and gender identity. 65 countries still criminalise consensual same-sex relations, in clear violation of international human rights law. This must end,” the statement said.

The EU urged 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 or persecution.”

Kallas also said the EU would continue to support LGBTI civil society organisations and human rights defenders, including through sustained and predictable funding.

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Press release