Brussels, 25/05/2012 (Agence Europe) - Catherine Ashton, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, has called on the Ukrainian authorities to protect and enforce the rights of the Ukrainians, “including lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender persons” (LGBT), allowing them to hold peaceful gatherings and giving them freedom of expression. This follows the violent disruption in the context of “Kiev Pride” on 19-21 May. “Deeply concerned” at this, Ashton has called on the Ukrainian authorities to carry out an in-depth inquiry and to bring the perpetrators to justice. The head of the EU delegation in Ukraine has received the organisers of “Kiev Pride” to express the EU high representative's support and commitment for the protection of human rights of all Ukrainians without discrimination, Catherine Ashton's spokesman stressed, pointing out that the EU will discuss the matter during the forthcoming bilateral meetings with the Ukrainian authorities.
The very first Gay Pride in Kiev - accompanied by the Kiev Pride festival held on 20 May - was cancelled because of fears for demonstrators' safety. Two activists were attacked by young people and, during the press briefing announcing cancellation of the event, masked men intervened and attacked those taking part. “If the Ukrainian police is not able to ensure the safety of those taking part in Gay Pride, one can only have doubts about its ability to keep law and order during the Euro 2010 football championship”, said MEP Marije Cornelissen (Greens/EFA, Netherlands), who attended to support the activists. She went on to add: “Unless this is a political choice, which would be even more serious”.
LGBT associations are also concerned about the forthcoming examination at the Ukrainian parliament of a draft law prohibiting the publication of information on homosexuality and bisexuality. The work of the associations concerned or the publication of articles could entail the imposition of fines or even prison sentences of up to five years. (CG/transl.jl)