Debate: Declaration of the EU as an LGBTIQ Freedom Zone
Date: WEDNESDAY, 10 MARCH 2021
Speaker: Ana Paula Zacarias
Language: EN

This subject is essential to so many of our citizens who suffer discrimination and hatred because of their sexual orientation. Let me be very clear from the start: there should be no place for homophobia anywhere in Europe. Sexual orientation and gender identity are aspects of who we are, and no one should feel the need to conceal their true selves in order to avoid discrimination, hate or even violence. In recent decades, progress has been made on LGBTIQ rights, but more remains to be done. Unfortunately, discrimination against LGBTIQ persons persists when they look for housing, when they seek health care or social services, and also at work or in school. All citizens of our Union are equal and should be able to live in freedom, safe from discrimination based on their sex, race, colour, religion or sexual orientation. These are principles and values solemnly enshrined in the EU Treaties, the Charter of Fundamental Rights and EU legislation. They are not up for negotiation. Our common European commitment to decency, tolerance and equal treatment is the very foundation of the idea of a just society. The EU, imperfect as it is, is still a beacon of hope for many across the globe. We must make sure that the example we set is a good one. This means building a society where our citizens feel free to be who they are, and to enjoy equal opportunities, participate fully and contribute and prosper in our society. The most recent survey of the Agency for Fundamental Rights has shown that as many as 43 percent LGBTIQ persons feel discriminated against. One in ten LGBTIQ respondents were physically or sexually attacked, and transgender and intersex respondents experienced attacks at a higher rate. What makes matters even worse is the fact that most of this injustice goes unreported. Overall, across the EU, only 11% of the discrimination suffered and only a small percentage of hate–driven incidents are reported. Europe still has a long way to go before real equality is achieved. The COVID—19 crisis has had a disproportionate impact on more vulnerable groups, including LGBTIQ community, leading to more inequalities and violence. The Portuguese Presidency attaches great importance to the inclusion of LGBTIQ persons in our society and will not spare its efforts in pursuing that goal. We count on the measures announced by the Commission in the first—ever strategy on LGBTIQ equality presented last November, and which was discussed last December. Next week, the Employment, Social Policy, Health and Consumer Affairs Council (EPSCO) ministers will be invited to debate legislative and political measures to ensure concrete progress towards equality, non—discrimination and diversity in the EU and its Member States. Where appropriate, we will continue to discuss matters in the framework of the annual rule of law mechanism. We would like to see equality becoming a reality, for example in Rainbow families, who can face difficulties and hurdles when seeking to exercise their right to freedom of movement within the EU. The Presidency is planning to organise an event on May 14 to commemorate the International Day against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia. We acknowledge the initiative to declare the EU an LGBTIQ Freedom Zone. Let us continue to work together towards this goal by doing everything we can to protect persons from being discriminated against because of their sexual orientation or gender identity, and to ensure across Europe that they can enjoy equality in their daily lives.