On 17 May, the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT), Belgium is joining in the messages of support for the protection and promotion of the human rights of LGBTQ people around the world.
Both in Belgium and abroad, the country is adopting a progressive policy towards the human rights of LGBTQ people: in 2023, the Belgian Parliament adopted a new law banning conversion therapy – further advancing Belgium's legislative framework in favour of the rights of LGBTQ people.
This year, Belgium proudly took third place in ILGA's (International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association) Rainbow Europe ranking. While dropping by one place in the ranking, its score still increased (from 76 last to 78 this year), but more significant gains were made by Iceland, which rose three places.
Celebrating the progress made
Belgium is also fully committed at the international level, mobilising its extensive diplomatic network on 17 May and any other day of the year. These Belgian efforts within the EU and beyond are part of the federal ‘For an LGBTQ-friendly Belgium' action plan, which aims to systemically increase the safety of LGBTQ people and maximise their inclusion.
"17 May is a day to celebrate the progress made in protecting and promoting the human rights of the community. Little by little, we are moving towards greater respect, inclusion and tolerance within our societies," a press release reads. "However, it is also an essential day to highlight the work that still needs to be done around the world to ensure that everyone can fully enjoy their rights regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity."
As the theme of IDAHOBIT 2024 – ‘No one left behind: equality, freedom and justice for all' – states, discrimination has no place in society and equality for all must prevail. "It is in this sense that Belgium is mobilising and will continue to mobilise around the world to bring about progress and counter the many attacks on LGBTQ people."
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In Brussels, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Cooperation is getting involved in this day by organising in-house discussions on the human rights of LGBTQ people.
The ministry will participate, for the first time officially, in the Brussels Pride, which will take place on Saturday 18 May: a delegation of the Foreign Affairs Ministry will join the parade alongside that of the European Union.
However, the work will not be limited to Brussels: Belgian embassies and representations abroad will also be taking part in various events in honour of IDAHOBIT or local Pride marches, and will be raising the LGBTQ flag on their facades as a gesture of support.
