EP declares European Union an LGBTIQ Freedom Zone

In response to the backsliding of LGBTIQ rights in some EU countries, notably Poland and Hungary, MEPs declared the EU an LGBTIQ Freedom Zone on Thursday. The resolution was adopted by 492 votes in favor, 141 against, and 46 abstentions.

Since March 2019, more than 100 Polish regions, counties, and municipalities have adopted resolutions declaring themselves to be free from LGBTIQ “ideology”. According to these resolutions, local governments should refrain from encouraging tolerance towards LGBTIQ people and withdraw financial assistance from organizations promoting non-discrimination and equality.

MEPs also highlight that these ‘‘LGBTIQ-free zones’’ are part of a broader context in which the LGBTIQ community in Poland is subject to increased discrimination and attacks, notably growing hate speech from public authorities, elected officials (including the current President), and pro-government media. They also deplore the arrests of LGBTIQ rights activists and the attacks and bans on Pride marches.

Although the Commission rejected applications for EU funding under its town-twinning program from Polish towns that adopted such resolutions, MEPs urge the institution to go further. The Commission should use all tools, they say, including infringement procedures, Article 7 of the Treaty on EU, as well as the recently adopted regulation on protecting the EU’s budget, in order to address violations of the fundamental rights of LGBTIQ people in the EU.

(WBJ)