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European countries highlight the importance of equality and diversity on IDAHOT

On 17 May, we mark the International Day against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia (IDAHOT). As member states of the European Union, we stand together for equality no matter sexual orientation or identity every day of the year.  

Diversity week 2020 - Be yourself, everyone else is taken

Diversity is appreciated as one of drivers for sustainable development. Equality in the diversified societies stands at the core of the European Union values. Our quest for equality motivates a shared concern for human dignity; the participation by all in economic, social and cultural life; a voice for all groups in decisions that impact them; and a celebration of diversity. Striving for equality in access to participation in all parts of decision making and social development means fulfilling Sustainable Development Goal No. 16. Which was also the central topic of the recent Czech Presidency of the UN ECOSOC.

The Embassy of the Czech Republic participates actively in various ways in  highlighting the stance of the Czech Republic towards protection of equality in diversity, against discrimination of vulnerable groups and supporting their full and equal participation. For instance, the Embassy takes part in the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women commemorative events dedicated to the Holocaust tragedy, etc.

Love has no borders

IDAHOT is another opportunity to remind ourselves that equality is an universal aspiration, has no borders and comes in many forms or shapes. The Czech Republic, along with European Union and its member states, continues to support equality for LGBTI persons. As an active member of the Equal Rights Coalition, the Czech Republic will continue to oppose discrimination in all forms. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic has published a statement on the occasion of IDAHOT on 17 May, 2020, which marks 30 years since homophobia has been deleted from the international classification of diseases.

Love has no borders 2

In the Czech Republic, a continuous trend of growing acceptance and support for LGBTI persons can be noticed. Support for both same-sex marriage and adoption of children by gay and lesbian couples has been gradually rising. According to public survey from January 2020 (conducted by MEDIAN Agency), support among the Czechs for introducing same-sex marriage into law has risen to 67 percent. Support, now nearly 80 percent, for adoption of children by same-sex couples, including adoption of a child of one partner by the other in the relationship, is also on the rise.

Love has no borders 3

Along with other EU member states, the Embassy of the Czech Republic in Beijing is participating in the Diversity Week - series of events launched in 2019 . This year a video is published to highlight the diversity of love. In addition, several countries mark IDAHOT by raising the rainbow flag.