BRUSSELS (May 17, 2025) — The European Union on Friday marked the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia with a strong call for the global protection of LGBTI rights, denouncing violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
“Discrimination and harassment against LGBTI persons have no place anywhere in the world,” the EU’s High Representative said in a statement on behalf of the bloc. “Equality, freedom, human dignity, non-discrimination and justice are fundamental universal values that the EU firmly upholds.”
The EU expressed deep concern over what it called the misuse of sexual orientation and gender identity to justify human rights abuses. LGBTI persons, it said, continue to face “disproportionate levels of violence, discrimination, harassment, and stigmatisation,” including targeted disinformation and hate speech.
“We reject all forms of incitement to violence, online and offline,” the statement added. “And we strongly condemn laws criminalising consensual same-sex conduct, which violate international human rights standards.”
Despite setbacks in recent years, the EU noted some positive developments. “Last year, two more countries decriminalised same-sex relations, and several others witnessed advancements in the human rights of LGBTI persons,” it said.
The bloc reaffirmed its commitment to inclusive policies and announced plans for an updated LGBTIQ equality strategy. The European Commission will propose new measures including a ban on so-called conversion practices and stronger action against hate-motivated violence and harassment.
“We will step up action to combat inequalities and all forms of discrimination,” the statement said, with specific focus on intersecting grounds such as sex, race, religion, disability, and gender identity.
On this international day of awareness, the EU called on all governments to repeal discriminatory laws, prevent hate crimes, and address systemic bias.
“Every person deserves to live free, equal, and with dignity,” the statement concluded. “Human rights are for all of us — whoever we are, wherever we live, whomever we love.”
