New EU Commission set to prioritise LGBTQ+ rights

The European Union will soon witness the installation of its new Commission, marking a pivotal moment as it embarks on a refreshed mandate with broad-ranging agendas. Announced by Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, the proposed list of EU Commissioners, along with their respective priorities, has been revealed in recent weeks, garnering significant attention, notably within the LGBTQ+ community.

The Commission has affirmed its commitment to equality by preserving the role of a dedicated Commissioner for Equality, a position crucial in furthering LGBTQ+ rights, among other equality issues. At a time when the status of LGBTQ+ rights varies dramatically across EU member states, the initiative to continue a focused approach on these issues is seen as a step in the right direction. This comes against the backdrop of differing advancements across Europe, including Estonia and Greece making historical legislative moves to introduce same-sex marriage. Greece, in particular, has implemented a comprehensive package aimed at strengthening the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals.

A political shift in Poland from an authoritarian regime to a government now led by the sister party of the Moderates has ushered in a more conducive atmosphere for the enhancement of LGBTQ+ rights, though much progress is yet to be made. Additionally, the European Court of Justice has reaffirmed the rights of individuals by ruling that member states must acknowledge the gender identity of those who have transitioned in other EU nations.

However, the landscape is not entirely optimistic. Developments in countries like Hungary and Slovakia signal growing concerns, where the rights and visibility of LGBTQ+ communities are increasingly being curtailed under respective Social Democratic governments. Hungary’s situation is notably dire, with policies continuing to regress. Bulgaria has instituted a law resembling Russia’s contentious legislation against LGBTQ+ ‘propaganda’, introduced by its pro-Russian political faction. Italy faces its own challenges, where legislative attempts threaten to diminish the parental status of one mother in same-sex couples, alongside potential sanctions against Italians involved in surrogacy.

These undertakings present significant challenges, but the EU remains poised to play a crucial role. President von der Leyen’s declarations highlight the Commission’s intentions to affirm that LGBTQ+ rights are intrinsic human rights, emphasising that they cannot be overlooked by any EU member states. The newly appointed Commissioner for Equality is tasked with advancing this agenda, including the roll-out of a new LGBTIQ Equality Strategy for 2025 and beyond.

Integral components of this strategy involve the continuance of combating hate crimes, with a particular focus on those propagated online. An equally vital element of the agenda is the advocacy for banning conversion therapy across all EU nations, a move aimed at safeguarding human dignity and rights.

Source: Noah Wire Services