Speaking at the IDAHOT+ Forum which took place on 11 May 2023 in Reykjavik, Iceland, the Chairman of the Congress Current Affairs Committee, Thomas Andersson (Sweden, ILDG), expressed concern about the situation of LGBTI people whose rights are being challenged or even declining in some countries, even if progress has been made in others - as the 2023 Forum concluded.
“Protecting the human rights of all people living on their territory, including those of LGBTI people, is the main role of local and regional authorities”, recalled Thomas Andersson. As it is at the local level that the effects of discrimination, hate speech and crime are first visible, local and regional authorities are best placed to understand where anti-LGBTI sentiments are coming from in their communities and come up with effective solutions. This must also include activities in specific areas such as the training of health professionals, or in support of particularly vulnerable groups such as LGBTI refugees; such activities have to be carried out in partnership with non-governmental organisations (NGOs) having the field experience.
At a time when the whole of Europe is facing multiple crises and a regression of democratic principles in many countries, it is important to ensure that all local actions are based on tolerance, non-discrimination and non-violence. “The upcoming International Day Against Homophobia which we will mark on 17 May under the motto “Together Always: United in Diversity” is meant to remind us, each year, that LGBTI rights must be kept at the top of political agendas for all levels”, he concluded.
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