International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia (17 May 2021)
On this International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia, France reiterates its strong commitment to the universal decriminalization of homosexuality and to defending the rights of LGBTI+ people who are all too often the victims of discrimination, harassment, violence, arbitrary arrest and even murder.
This is a day to pay tribute to all those who are working for the rights of LGBTI+ people in difficult circumstances, sometimes risking their freedom or their lives to do so. France stands with them wholeheartedly.
Significant progress has been made: 124 nations do not criminalize, or no longer criminalize, same-sex relations. But much remains to be done at a time when the rights of LGBTI+ people are deteriorating in certain countries, including in Europe, and in nearly 70 countries where homosexuality and/or transgender identity are still criminalized. Eleven countries even prescribe the death penalty.
In accordance with its National Plan to Promote Equal Rights and Combat Anti-LGBTI+ Hatred and Discrimination, France will continue to support civil society efforts in multilateral bodies.
Pride, dignity, and fundamental rights belong to all of us. This fight is the part of the same fight for universal human rights, and must be our shared struggle.