International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia: Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union 2026

Where inequality and discrimination persist, democracy cannot thrive. Equality is not optional; it is the foundation of free and resilient societies.

However, around the world, too many LGBTI people continue to face violence, discrimination, hate speech and stigmatisation, and are targeted by disinformation campaigns, simply for being who they are. When the full enjoyment of LGBTI people’s human rights is undermined, participation declines and societies become less inclusive and less democratic.

Onthe International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOT), the EU reaffirms its firm commitment to upholding the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights by LGBTI people.

We are witnessing a global rollback of universal human rights. Discrimination is intensifying, including on grounds of sexual orientation and gender identity. Sixty-five countries still criminalise consensual same-sex sexual relations, in clear violation of international human rights law. This must end. The EU urges all states to repeal laws criminalising consensual same-sex sexual relations and to halt the adoption of new discriminatory legislation against LGBTI people. All countries must take the necessary measures to ensure that people are free to live their lives as they choose, without fear or persecution.

The EU is firmly opposed to all forms of discrimination. Equality is also enshrined in our founding treaties and in the relevant case law.

Whilst progress has been made within the EU, we are determined to go further. The EU will continue to support LGBTI civil society organisations and human rights defenders, including through sustained and predictable funding. Their work is essential to safeguarding democratic values and the rule of law, even in the face of the growing pressure they face. The EU will continue to advocate for greater protection of LGBTI human rights defenders, particularly in contexts of shrinking civic space and increasing repression.

In the coming years, the Commission’s new strategy for LGBTIQ equality will strengthen protection against violence, counter hate and discrimination, including online, expand the space for people to live freely and equally, and mobilise society as a whole to achieve real equality. 

More information: European Commission.