EPBN is deeply concerned by the statement of the Serbian President on the cancellation of EuroPride 2022 in Belgrade. We believe that such a statement has no place in a democratic country that protects the rights and freedom of all. We stand firmly behind Belgrade Pride and the EuroPride organisers and would like to express our support for them in holding this important European event.
Ever since the 1969 Stonewall riots in New York, Pride festivals have been an important (and in some countries the only) element of public awareness of LGBTIQ quality of life. Across the continent, LGBTIQ people face discrimination in the workplace because of their sexual orientation or gender identity. In many cases, they prefer to remain hidden and suffer mentally rather than come out openly in their workplace. Pride festivals are important to raise awareness of these issues and to help employers and companies improve the working environment so that employees are not discriminated against in the workplace. EuroPride 2022 has included a discussion on equality in the workplace in its programme. The inclusion of LGBTIQ people is a positive force for personal and socio-economic development.
We join the call to President Vučić and Prime Minister Ana Brnabić not to obstruct EuroPride in Belgrade and to uphold freedom of expression and assembly, which Serbia is obliged to do as a member of the Council of Europe.
Statements like President Vučić’s have a devastating impact on the mental health of LGBTIQ people, forcing millions of people to stay in the closet both in the workplace and in their lives. This is unacceptable in 21st century Europe.
That is an additional reason for being in Belgrade for #EuroPride2022!
Along with EPOA, we strongly encourage our members to:
- Show solidarity with EuroPride organisers on their social media and share the news that EuroPride IS going ahead in Belgrade from 12-18 September, and it has not been cancelled on their social media. Use the #EuroPride2022 hashtag on social media and tag both @EuroPride and @belgradepride.
- Issue a letter to your public officials – Minister for Foreign Affairs, Prime Minister, members of parliament and other key leaders to condemn Vučić’s comments and demand that the Serbian authorities facilitate a safe EuroPride, without giving in to those who oppose us. Officials in the Czech Republic, Denmark, Sweden, Norway and Luxembourg have already done so.
- Sign and share the All Out petition to President Vučić and Prime Minister Brnabic.
