Chisinau, 17 May 2026

On the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia, which is marked today, we express our solidarity and support for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) persons around the world, many of whom continue to face discrimination, violence and hate speech.

Every state has the responsibility to protect its people from violence and discrimination and to ensure the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or sex characteristics.

Equality, diversity and non-discrimination are part of our core values. This year’s theme is „At the Heart of Democracy“. We reaffirm our commitment to respecting, protecting and fulfilling the human rights of all, including the right to non-discrimination, to freedom of expression, to association and to peaceful assembly. We will continue to support and promote anti-discrimination measures, including measures to address hate speech and hate crimes, in co-operation with authorities and civil society.

On 21 June, the 25th edition of the „Moldovan Pride Festival“ will take place, including a „Solidarity March“, to promote equality for all. We look forward to a peaceful and safe march advocating for continued progress towards equality and inclusion in the Republic of Moldova. Everyone should be able and free to be themselves, no matter who they are or whom they love.

* The joint statement is issued by the missions of:

Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, EU Delegation, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Ireland, Israel, Latvia, Japan, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Mexico, Montenegro, the Netherlands, North-Macedonia, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Ukraine, Uruguay, and the United Kingdom.