Discrimination and harassment against LGBTI persons have no place anywhere in the world. Equality, freedom, human dignity, non-discrimination and justice are fundamental universal values that the EU firmly upholds. They are applicable to all, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.

All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. LGBTI persons have the same human rights as all individuals, including freedom from discrimination. Yet, in too many places, they face discrimination, exclusion, harassment, violence and persecution simply for being who they are and for loving whom they love.

The EU is deeply concerned that sexual orientation and gender identity are being used to justify human rights violations worldwide. LGBTI persons are disproportionately targeted by violence, discrimination, harassment and stigmatisation as well as disinformation weaponising hate against LGBTI persons. 

The EU denounces all forms of discrimination and harassment of LGBTI persons, including, hate speech and hate crimes. We reject all forms of incitement to violence, online and offline, and strongly condemn laws criminalising consensual same-sex conduct, which violate international human rights standards. Despite worrying setbacks in recent years, progress continues. Last year, two more countries decriminalised same-sex relations and several others witnessed positive advancements for human rights of LGBTI persons. 

Inclusive policies matter. We will step up action to combat inequalities and all forms of discrimination with a specific focus on multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination, including on grounds of sex, race, ethnic or social origin, religion or belief, political or any other opinion, disability, age, sexual orientation and gender identity. In the EU, we will continue to advance equality. The European Commission, as outlined in its political guidelines, will propose an updated strategy on LGBTIQ equality including on banning so-called conversion practices and on tackling persistent hate-motivated harassment and violence, including online.

On IDAHOT Day, we reaffirm our strong commitment to respect, protect and fulfill the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights by all LGBTI persons. We call on all governments to repeal discriminatory legislation, tackle hate crimes and hate speech, prevent violence and address systemic biases. 

Every person deserves to live free, equal, and with dignity. Human rights are for all of us — whoever we are, wherever we live, whomever we love.