Let’s celebrate Pride Month!

The month of June is ‘Pride Month’ dedicated to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex and queer persons (LGBTIQ+). In addition, the European External Action Service has launched the ‘Pride Heroes’ campaign to acknowledge the work of those who promote the human rights of LGBTIQ+ persons, give visibility to diversity and contribute to a society of tolerance and respect.

The LGBTIQ+ pride promotes self-affirmation, dignity, equality and increased visibility of LGBTIQ+ persons and all others with diverse sexual orientations, gender identities or expressions, and sex characteristics as a social group. A European survey showed that discrimination towards LGBTIQ and others still exists, which is why the European Commission has set up the ‘LGBTIQ Equality Strategy 2020-2025’, striving to build an environment where all people can be themselves without the risk of discrimination, exclusion or violence.

The strategy sets out key objectives who are built around four pillars to be achieved by 2025:

1. Tackling discrimination against LGBTIQ individuals
2. Ensuring the safety of LGBTIQ people
3. Building inclusive societies for LGBTIQ individuals
4. Leading the call for LGBTIQ equality around the world

The recently published progress report showed that a growing number of Member States are committing to LGBTIQ equality and equal opportunities and the EU is working on actions, including in the field of data. For example, regarding the first pillar, the Commission adopted a proposal for regulation laying down rules for AI systems to protect against discrimination. Furthermore, the Commission has taken steps to address the gaps in research relevant to LGBTIQ people.

To become a Union where everyone can thrive, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, there is still work to be done. Let’s celebrate this Pride Month and stand together.

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