Chisinau, 17 May 2019 - Everyone - without distinction of any kind - is entitled to all the rights and freedoms set forth in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, including the right to be free from discrimination and the right to freedom of expression, association and peaceful assembly.
Every country has an obligation to promote and protect all human rights and fundamental freedoms. It is the duty of each government to protect all persons, irrespective of sex, sexual orientation or gender identity and expression, from discrimination and violence as well as ensure that all persons enjoy equal opportunities and equal treatment.
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 18th LGBTI Festival “Moldova Pride 2019” is currently taking place and that the global focus for 17 May 2019 is “Justice and Protection for all”. 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 March “Sunt OK/I am ok” on 19 May 2019 peacefully.
Each day, individuals face discrimination because of their sexual orientation or gender identity and expression. Our countries 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 March and continued progress toward equality for all persons in Moldova.
* The joint statement is issued by the missions of Albania, Argentina, Belgium, Canada, Czech Republic, Cyprus, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxemburg, Montenegro, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Serbia, Slovenia, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom and United States to the Republic of Moldova.
