Three years ago, Serbia applied to host the Europride, a pan-European LGBTI+ event. It was successful and yesterday, Belgrade became the first city in South East Europe to host this event.

The EU is however disappointed to learn that the Ministry of Interior issued a ban on the route of the march. Since its creation 30 years ago, the parade has been an essential part of the Europride. It is a public expression of the will to fight discrimination and promote equal rights of LGBTIQ+ persons and the most visible part of the Europride. There cannot be a Europride without the march. 

As the organisers announced to explore avenues, including legal remedies, against the ban, the EU expresses hope that a solution will be found before Saturday 17 September for the march to be held in peace and safety.