A roadmap for equality without discrimination on grounds of sexual orientation or gender identity was one of the key demands made by MEPs during a Civil Liberties debate on the results of the largest-ever lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) hate crime and discrimination survey presented by the Fundamental Rights Agency on 17 May.

EU

Most MEPs also highlighted the need to move forward with the anti-discrimination directive.

The results of the survey were presented on Thursday in the Civil Liberties Committee by Dennis Van Der Veur, from the EU’s Fundamental Rights Agency.

Roadmap for equality

MEPs have once again called on the Commission to present a roadmap for equality without discrimination on grounds of sexual orientation or gender identity and for EU anti-discriminations laws. Many MEPs referred to the anti-discrimination directive, which has been blocked by member states after 5 years of debate. A few MEPs, however, warned against having “detailed” legislation against discrimination.

Education, a key element

During the debate, most MEPs called on political leaders to speak out in favour of LGBT rights, noting that in some countries they are doing the opposite.

Education was one of the key areas highlighted in the debate, since it is at a young age when people learn what is acceptable or not. Having school books that present positive images of LGBT families would be an important step, some MEPs said.

Access to services

On access to services, MEPs noted that, for example, it can still be very difficult for a gay couple to rent an apartment.

MEPs also stressed the need to collect more information on the perpetrators on how law enforcement treats violence complains.

You can follow the recording of the debate here (click on 30 May).

In the chair: Kinga Göncz (S&D, HU)

Tagged:
About the Author

Publishes press/media releases and content for LGBT media outlets.