May 17 marks the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT), a global observance aimed at raising awareness about discrimination, violence, and human rights violations faced by LGBTQ+ people worldwide.
The date commemorates a landmark decision by the World Health Organization in 1990, when homosexuality was officially removed from the International Classification of Diseases, marking a major step toward ending the pathologization of sexual orientation.
First launched in 2004, the observance is now marked in more than 130 countries, with governments, international organizations, activists, and civil society groups holding campaigns and events promoting equality, inclusion, and human rights.
On the occasion of the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia, the European Union’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy / Vice President of the European Commission, Kaja Kallas, issued a statement reaffirming the EU’s commitment to protecting the rights of LGBTI persons.
“Where inequalities and discrimination persist, democracy cannot thrive. Equality is not optional, it is the bedrock of free and resilient societies,” Kallas said.
Based on the statement, many LGBTI persons around the world continue to face violence, discrimination, hate speech, stigmatization, and disinformation campaigns because of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Kallas noted that 65 countries still criminalize consensual same-sex relations, calling this a clear violation of international human rights law.
“This must end,” the statement said, urging states to repeal laws criminalizing consensual same-sex relations and refrain from adopting new discriminatory legislation targeting LGBTI persons.
The EU also reiterated its commitment to supporting LGBTI civil society organizations and human rights defenders through continued funding and protection mechanisms, particularly in countries where civic space is shrinking and repression is increasing.
Looking ahead, Kallas said the European Commission’s new LGBTIQ+ Equality Strategy aims to strengthen protection against violence, counter hate and discrimination — including online — and create greater space for people to live freely and equally.
“Every country should take the necessary steps to ensure that people are free to live their lives as they choose, without fear or persecution,” the statement said.
