Chisinau, 17 May 2017 – On the occasion of the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia, we express our support for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) persons in the Republic of Moldova.
We note that the 16th LGBTI Festival “Moldova Pride” is currently taking place. As the values of tolerance and respect for diversity are fundamental to open democratic societies, we recognize the right of LGBTI-persons and their supporters to conduct the Solidarity March “Fără frică” on 21 May 2017 peacefully.
Human rights — including freedom of expression and assembly, equality and non-discrimination — and the rule of law are the foundations upon which democracies are built. Indeed, according to international law, all individuals are entitled to the same rights and freedoms, as set out in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and other international legal instruments. International law requires respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, and therefore obliges governments to protect all persons from discrimination and violence and to ensure that all persons enjoy equal opportunities and equal treatment.
People face discrimination because of their sexual orientation or gender identity every day. Our governments seek to combat such discrimination by promoting the human rights of all. Everyone, including lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex persons should be free to enjoy the rights and freedoms to which all individuals everywhere are entitled.
We look forward to a peaceful and safe Solidarity March and continued progress toward equality for all persons in Moldova.
* The joint statement is issued by the missions of Estonia, France, Germany, Italy, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom and the United States of America in Chisinau
