You're reading: Ambassadors of 16 states, head of EU Delegation urge Ukraine to protect LGBTI rights

The ambassadors of 16 states, as well as the head of the Delegation of the European Union to Ukraine, have called on Ukraine to support equality, dignity and the rule of law and ensure the rights of LGBTI people.

“Ukraine has made notable progress in recognizing and protecting human rights, but this work is still unfinished. We encourage Ukraine to build on these successes and continue to support equality, dignity, and rule of law for all… The international community remains committed to the safety of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Intersex (LGBTI) Ukrainians, their friends, families, and all advocates for tolerance and equality in Ukraine,” reads a joint statement on the International Day against Homophobia and Transphobia by the Ambassadors to Ukraine of Australia, Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, Canada, Denmark, the European Union, Finland, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and the United States, which was published on May 15.

Diplomats recognized that the values of tolerance and respect for diversity are fundamental to open, democratic societies.

“We continue to pledge our support to implementation of the National Human Rights Strategy and Action Plan, including additional steps in the area of anti-discrimination for LGBTI citizens and the fight against hate crimes based on sexual orientation,” the ambassadors said.

The diplomats said that the March for Equality was to be held in Kyiv on March 17, 2018.

“We collectively urge police and government officials throughout Ukraine to support and protect the right of LGBTI persons and their supporters to conduct these events. We also ask all Ukrainians to respect the right of their fellow citizens to peaceful assembly,” the ambassadors added.

The International Day against Homophobia and Transphobia is marked on May 17.