EP Intergroup on LGBT Rights urges new EP President to condemn Lithuanian homophobic law

16 July 2009

The European Parliament's Intergroup on Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender rights has asked the newly elected EP President, Jerzy Buzek, to take action against the recently approved homophobic law in Lithuania.

The Lithuanian Parliament has lately overturn a presidential veto passing an act which is considered discriminatory by homosexual Lithuanian and European organisations. The law on the Protection of Minors against the Detrimental Effect of Public Information, which will come into force in March 2010, bans "propaganda of homosexuality and bisexuality from schools and any other places where it can be accessed by youth".


In a letter to President Buzec, the LGBT Intergroup asked him to write to the Lithuanian Government to express concern that this new law could be prejudicial to understanding and tolerance of homosexuals as well as moving contrary to Article 6 of the EU Treaty.


Michael Cashman, Chairman of the Intergroup, said, "this new law contradicts the values of the European Union, where minority rights are and should remain respected".
Vladimir Simonko, President of the Lithuanian Gay League (LGL), emphasized how “these heavy homophobia driven laws codify discrimination based on sexual orientation, deny freedom of expression, and inhibit LGBT persons’ rights to education, information and every day life".

 

For further information

Read the EP Intergroup press release