Are Equality and Non-Discrimination Becoming Redundant in the EU?

» MARCH 2005

VOL 5 ISSUE 1 NEWSLETTER ISSN 1378-577X www.ilga-europe.org

Are equality and non-discrimination becoming redundant in the EU?

» Challenges for gay youth » Gay victims of Nazis struggle for full recognition » Europe gears for summer pride events The European Region of the International Lesbian and Gay Association

avenue de Tervueren 94 Bank account # 310-1844088-10 1040 Brussels, Belgium ING Belgique Phone +32 2 609 54 10 ETT-CINQUANTENAIRE Fax +32 2 609 54 19 avenue de Tervueren 10 [email protected] 1040 ETTERBEEK www.ilga-europe.org IBAN BE41 3101 8440 8810 BIC (SWIFT): BBRUBEBB Message from Patricia Table of Contents A very warm welcome to the Spring edition of our Newsletter! As ever it has been a busy time at ILGA-Europe during the last couple of 3 Board news months. A lot of work has been done by the board and staff in terms of 3 ILGA's European Conference 2005 strategic planning and organisational development. Changes at IE are 4 News from ILGA that Tatjana, resigned from the board due to work commitments. Many 4 EU policy priorities thanks to Tatjana for all her work with us and best wishes for the future. 6 Europarliament Gay and Lesbian Rights Intergroup Maya was welcomed as a full board member at the February meeting. 7 Social exclusion and LGBT youth There will be another change later on this Spring. Don Bisson will be 8 EU neighbourhood policy moving on from ILGA-Europe at the end of April. We also thank Don for 9 EU EQUAL translational project all his work both as Director of ECT Programmes and as Acting Director 10 Europe remembers Holocaust of IE. We wish him the very best in the future. 12 OSCE: New training programme on hate crimes 13 News clips The recent statement by the Commission's President Barroso caused a 17 Events lot of concerns among European organisations working in the social 18 Call for essays and equality areas, including us. We fear that Europe might be changing its social model to a more economic approach where such values as equality and non-discrimination are not given sufficient attention. While Commissioner pidla re-confirmed the commitments to non-discrimination, mainstreaming and equality, just this week, we will have to The ILGA-Europe Newsletter is Lewis, Desislava Petrova, Maya work very hard and with our colleagues in the other social and equality the quarterly newsletter of Salvado, Svyatoslav Sementsov, NGOs to ensure these commitments are translated into actions that ILGA-Europe. Volume 5, issue 1, Anette Sjödin, Kim Smouter, improve the lives of LGBT people and also the lives of the very margin- March 2005. Tomasz Szypula, Arne alised people throughout Europe who are excluded from full, meaning- Walderhaug, Nigel Warner, Elena ful and equal participation in society. Editors: Zamura. Juris Lavrikovs, Kurt Krickler Design & layout: On a positive note, the Gay and Lesbian Rights Intergroup at the Contributors: Silja Pogule European Parliament was re-launched and we hope it will provide a Maxim Anmeghichean, Stephen www.siljadesign.lv strong voice among the EU institutions for LGBT people. Barris, Don Bisson, Gilles Bon- Maury, Gordan Bosanac, Printer: Sofadi We are busy developing the seminars to be held in Krakow in April Riccardo Gottardi, Anna (and they will be repeated in Slovenia in June), the EU Co-ordina- Gruszczynska, Birgit Hardt, Next Issue: June 2005 Krissu, Christine Loudes, Jackie Deadline: 10 May 2005 tors Network meeting, and the Paris Conference.

There is interesting news from around Europe about LGBT people. And we also feature items on remembering the Holocaust victims © ILGA-Europe. Reproduction permitted, and the question of multiple discrimination and social exclusion. provided that appropriate reference is made to the source. We also include a first notification on the Spring/Summer Pride events that are happening throughout Europe. Do let us know of other events, so we can add them to the list. This Newsletter is published publication does not necessarily with the support of the European reflect the position or opinion Commission – The European of the European Commission. I hope you will enjoy reading this Newsletter and as always we are Union against discrimination. It is not liable for any use that happy to hear your comments, suggestions and ideas about making The information contained in this may be made of this information. it even more relevant to you. PATRICIA PRENDIVILLE ILGA-Europe's Executive Director »P2 ILGA-EUROPE NEWSLETTER ILGA-Europe Board er of a little boy. Maya works in Thank you Tatjana, visual arts, is involved in an alternative coop kindergarten welcome to Maya! and parenting support network. She is active in women's organi- On 24 January 2005, Tatjana needed at this moment. For this sations, and 10 years ago she Greif resigned from the Executive reason she thought that it would organised "women by train to Board. Tatjana had served on the be more responsible to allow the Beijing" for the 4th World board for six years, contributing first reserve to take up her role Conference on Women. For with great dedication to the work as a member of the board. the past 10 years she was of the organisation, in particular Dear Tatjana, while kissing you active with the APGL on issues relating to lesbian good bye, we thank you for the (Association of Gay and rights and East Europe. Over the years you have dedicated to Lesbian Parents and Future Maya Salvado Ferrer years we have worked together, ILGA-Europe and we wish you Parents), and now is its inter- getting to know each other bit by all the best for your life, your Maya Salvado Ferrer is national representative. Maya bit, and we will all miss the work and your activism; we will Spaniard who was born in is involved with "Paris 2005 strength of her commitment to miss you but we know that we Ireland and is living in France. ILGA-Europe" hosting the 27th the LGBT cause. will continue to work together Maya studied visual arts and ILGA European conference in and that it will not be long women studies in France, UK, Paris and the pre-conference Due to the growing demands on before we get together again. China and the USA. She has a on LGBT families organised by her from her work and her life as DSAP from the École APGL. well as her activism in KUC-LL, So, while we are sad to be loos- Supérieure des Beaux-Arts of Tatjana felt that she could not ing Tatjana, we are also happy to Paris and a Masters of Visual JACKIE LEWIS and devote to ILGA-Europe all the welcome Maya Salvado as a full Arts from Rutgers University, RICCARDO GOTTARDI time that would have been member of the Executive Board. New Jersey, USA. She is moth- Executive Board Co-Chairs

"United in Diversity" ILGA-Europen Conference

The Paris team is proud to 2005 ILGA-Europe conference Homosexualités et Socialisme, On 25-26 October 2005, a pre- invite ILGA-Europe members in Paris (ILGA-Europe Paris Commission Gaie et Lesbienne conference on LGBT parenting to one of the most lesbian 2005)". Its members all have des Verts, Association des par- will take place in Paris (for more and gay friendly capitals in strong connections to or responsi- ents et futurs parents gais et details, see 'Events' section). the world, to a country bridg- bilities in other LGBT associations. lesbiens (APGL), CQFD/Fierté ing northern and southern Lesbienne, Juristes Gais, Practical information Europe and whose people A co-operative effort Syndicat national des entre- The conference will take place cherish liberty and diversity. The project has received the prises gaies (SNEG), etc. from 26-30 October 2005. The full support of Inter-LGBT Several of these associations registration form and the confer- A dedicated team (French umbrella organisation have already shown their ability ence programme will be avail- In April 2003, an association for LGBT associations, based in to organise public events able on ILGA-Europe's website was specifically created to pre- Paris) which has appointed a (LGBT Pride March, confer- www.ilga-europe.org. The pare, bid for, and organise the member to the board of "ILGA- ences, fairs, press confer- main venue of the conference is 2005 conference, should ILGA- Europe Paris 2005". Other ences), to work with non-LGBT FIAP Jean Monnet, 30 rue Europe decide to hold the con- associations have shown their organisations (trade unions, Cabanis, 75014 Paris: ference in Paris, which it did at interest and will participate in human rights organisations), to www.fiap.asso.fr. the annual conference in the project: Centre Gai et run public services, fund-raise, Glasgow in October 2003. The Lesbien de Paris, SOS obtain public grants, get sup- ILGA-EUROPE PARIS 2005 TEAM name of this specific group is Homophobie, CARITIG, David port from high-level politicians, "Association for hosting the et Jonathan, L'Autre Cercle, lobby, reach the media, etc. www.ilgaeuropeparis2005.org

ILGA-EUROPE NEWSLETTER »P3 to fully recognise and protect News from ILGA sexual orientation and gender identity as human rights…

"Campaigning", a new bul- "Campaigning" will be available Paris in October will be ILGA's The International Day letin for ILGA both in print and electronically. second appointment in 2005 Against Homophobia "People interested in our issues which will lead us to ILGA's world (IDAHO) get their share of LGBT news Next ILGA conferences: conference in spring 2006. As On 17 May 1990, the General when they turn on their TVs, Cebu City, Paris and Geneva decided by its members in Manila Assembly of the World Health read their daily paper or their As political turmoil in Nepal at the last world conference, the Organization (WHO) removed favourite website or magazine…" became more threatening by 23rd world conference will take homosexuality from its list of says Stephen Barris, communi- the day, regional representa- place in Geneva, home of the mental disorders. This funda- cation officer at ILGA, "but they tives of ILGA decided to relo- United Nations Commission on mental date was chosen to cel- often do not get to meet the peo- cate its Asia's regional confer- Human Rights (UNCHR). The ebrate the International Day ple behind the achievement, the ence from Kathmandu to Cebu title of the conference "UNited we Against Homophobia (IDAHO), activists behind the campaign". City in the Philippines after stand" clearly relates to ILGA's an initiative of French activist ILGA's new editorial initiative, consulting with Nepalese mem- commitment to the full recogni- Louis-Georges Tin. The project called "Campaigning" intends to ber Blue Diamond Society. tion of LGBT rights by the UN, supported by ILGA, which do just that, featuring interviews CLIC (Can't live in the Closet) and the conference itself will be hosts a petition in its favour on with activists of every region of and CebuPride are joining held during the 62nd session of www.ilga.org, is campaigning the world. Offering a space for efforts for the organisation of the the UNCHR, an international for the acceptance of a world activists to expose their con- second ILGA gathering in Asia. forum that has failed to this day day against homophobia on cerns, ILGA wishes to promote national and international cal- international solidarity, a value Background information: endars. LGBT groups are that has been at the core of ILGA-Europe is the European Region of the International Lesbian encouraged to take actions on ILGA since its creation in 1978. and Gay Association (ILGA). ILGA was funded in 1978 and is a that specific day to raise The first issue, out beginning of world-wide network of national and local groups dedicated to awareness on homophobic sit- achieving equal rights for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender March, will also propose an arti- uations around the world. For (LGBT) people around the world. cle on the fate of "Lesbians more info, please contact under the Third Reich" and an ILGA is to this day the only international non-profit and non-gov- [email protected]. insight of what's going on at the ernmental community-based federation focused on presenting dis- United Nations around the crimination on grounds of sexual orientation and gender identity as STEPHEN BARRIS a global issue. Brazilian resolution. ILGA's Communications Officer

From a social project to "growth at all costs" If one of my children is ill, I objectives of social progress, ond communication: the future focus on that one, but that environmental sustainability and Social Policy Agenda for 2005- does not mean that I love the economic growth. The revamped 20103. The new Social others less.1 Lisbon Strategy - poignantly Agenda fits in with the logic of renamed "Working together for the "Growth and Jobs" agenda In early February the European growth and jobs"2 - is little short and reduces social policy as a Commission launched two com- of a radical new approach that means to achieve economic munications to the European will see social and environmental growth and employment. The Spring Council that caused pillars of the EU pushed aside in underlying assumption is that shock and dismay amongst a desperate battle to create jobs economic growth will automati- European social NGOs. The and economic growth. cally lead to greater social communications symbolise a cohesion without any need for

EU Policy priorities EU Policy marked shift in the direction of Only days later, the specific policies to reinforce President Barroso EU policy away from the Lisbon Commission published a sec- such positive benefits. On the

»P4 ILGA-EUROPE NEWSLETTER whole, the policy priorities rep- will be minimalist. Admittedly, The Social Agenda 2005-2010: What is in it for us? resent a big step backward some of the substantive pro- The new Social Agenda is more of a general background docu- from the achievements made posals - a communication in ment than a concrete set of actions. This gives us an opportuni- over the past five years: the late 2005, the draft action pro- ty to help translate general commitments into specific steps. commitment to EU social policy gramme PROGRESS, the feasi- What, then, are the key proposals? and the important role of civil bility study - continue to form part society is waning. of the Commission's work-plan » European Initiative for Youth for the next three years. But the » European Social Fund: vital funding source for national initia- New era for equality and non- overall framework is altered. tives in the employment and social field - ensure it is open for discrimination in the EU? work on non-discrimination Last autumn saw a significant The new Agenda seems defen- » Health and Safety at Work: new EU strategy 2007-2013 increase in political support for sive of the need for social poli- » European Year of Workers' Mobility: 2006 will be an oppor- more EU action in the fight cy, it lacks a clear framework tunity to push for cross-border recognition of same-sex families against discrimination. for action, and the principles it » Non-discrimination policy framework: December 2005: Undoubtedly linked to the gives for social policy are Communication on future EU policy framework on non-discrimi- Buttiglione affair (cf. ILGA- vague. The number of concrete nation Europe Newsletter 4/04, p. 9), policy proposals is limited, and » Feasibility Study on further EU legislation in field of non- Commission President José the instruments suggested are discrimination Manuel Barroso pledged his weak. Despite the need identi- » European Year of Equal Opportunities: proposed for 2007 commitment to actively defend fied in the Green Paper consul- » "PROGRESS": new Community Action Programme (2007- equality and to adopt an ambi- tation to mainstream equality 2013) to cover work in the field of non-discrimination tious package to consolidate across all areas of EU policy, respect for human rights and the agenda fails to mention For further information, see: www.ilga-europe.org. non-discrimination in Europe. how mainstreaming might work In response to the Green in practice. There is no specific Paper consultation, reference to NGOs in the con- Commissioner Vladimir pidla text of civil society's role in introduced the future EU policy governance. The role of the The Social Platform comments on the "Growth and package on equality last main financial instrument, the Jobs" agenda November (cf. IE Newsletter European Social Fund, is "Even if the last five years have been years of struggle to main- 4/04, p. 8). Key components biased towards job creation, tain the balance between the economic, social and environmental were to be a feasibility study on and the future of the open pillars of the Lisbon strategy, the change in the rhetoric and in the further EU legislation in the field methods of co-ordination in the practice of decision makers was encouraging. If EU governments of goods and services as well as field of social inclusion is left endorse Barroso's approach, the EU will be returning to an obso- a greater integration of non-dis- unclear. The next months are a lete model of economic development, ignoring key political com- crimination objectives into other crucial time for NGOs across mitments made during the last years." policy areas and instruments. Europe to give more shape to the EU's future social policy We therefore call on the EU head of states to: Three months later the initial agenda. Now is the time to enthusiasm has been overtak- argue strongly for the benefits » Hold firm their commitment to a balanced Lisbon Strategy, en by a sobering wake-up call. of social policy both in its own including social cohesion objectives The Social Agenda presented terms and as a contribution to » Recognise that social, economic and employment policies in early February shows clearly achieve the objectives defined should be designed in an integrated approach that the approach taken to at Lisbon in 2000. » Guarantee that overarching instruments such as the Spring social policy in general and Summit integrate a strong social and environmental dimension non-discrimination in particular BIRGIT HARDT » Ensure that national action programmes cover social cohesion objectives, including the streamlined social protection and social

1 inclusion objectives European Commission President José Manuel Barroso explains to the European Parliament why he has to focus more on his economic child instead of his siblings social » Reaffirm EU commitment to the EU Social Inclusion Strategy to policy and environmental sustainability; 2 February 2005. make a decisive impact on the eradication of poverty by 2010. 2For the full text of the Communication, see: http://europa.eu.int/growthandjobs/index_en.htm. For more information on the work of the Social Platform on this, see: www.socialplatform.org/code/en/soci.asp?Page=668. For more details on the Social Platform campaign, see: Check also ILGA-Europe's press release: www.socialplatform.org/code/en/camp.asp?Page=143. www.ilga-europe.org/m7/media_releases/Lisbon%20agenda%20review%202-02-05.htm. 3For the full text of the Communication, see: http://europa.eu.int/comm/employment_social/social_policy_agenda/spa_en.pdf.

ILGA-EUROPE NEWSLETTER »P5 Gay and Lesbian Rights Intergroup "To achieve legal equality and social justice for LGBT people across the EU and in the wider re-launched world, our aim must be high and our aim is achievable. The LGBT community deserves In the end of 2004, the Gay and Lesbian Intergroup of the nothing less. We must be determined and European Parliament was re-established. Michael Cashman focused within the EP to ensure that LGBT rights (Socialist Group/UK) was elected president of the Intergroup, and Michael Cashman are enshrined in non-discrimination directives." the following MEPs were elected vice-presidents: Sophia in 't Veld (Alliance of Liberals and Democrats for Europe/NL), Raül Romeva "I have always believed in fundamental i Rueda (The Greens/European Free Alliance/E) and Alexander rights for all individuals, regardless of race, Stubb (European People's Party and European Democrats/FIN). colour, sex or sexual orientation. In that sense I guess you could deem me liberal. ILGA-Europe is pleased that there was a cross-party support And I want to work with issues close to my enabling the establishment of the Intergroup and hopes to work heart, even if it is not always politically the with its members very closely. A first meeting to discuss some of most 'convenient' thing to do. the priorities was already held. One of the first actions taken by To me, it seems that the greatest challenge European Parliament European the Intergroup was a letter to Commission President José Manuel Alexander Stubb of the Intergroup is bringing GLBT issues Barroso regarding a series of homophobic statements by govern- into the mainstream of the European minority debate. Of course, ment officials in Slovenia. with big changes going on in the Union, we must also focus on the realisation of GLBT rights in all EU states, old and new." The next meeting of the Intergroup is scheduled for April. Justice, Freedom and Security Commissioner Franco Frattini has been "The Intergroup can build on the excellent work invited to discuss how to follow up the Commission's commitments of its predecessors in the past ten years. Now to equality and human rights expressed last October. the time has come to take things further: I want to achieve concrete results in the coming man- JURIS LAVRIKOVS date. For example: real implementation of the equality directive, and recognition of married Background information: same-sex couples. The European Parliament » "Intergroups" at the European Parliament are informal and has shown to be a true advocate of fundamen- open groups of MEPs (Members of the European Parliament), Sophia in 't Veld tal rights, not least in the debate on Mr assistants, civil servants of the European institutions, lobbyists Buttiglione. During that episode Mr Barroso and and NGOs who work together on specific issues. They try to put Mr Frattini have committed themselves firmly to the fight for equal rights their demands on the European agenda and compare notes on and ending discrimination. We will take them up on that commitment! battles won and lost. In addition, we will speak out loudly and clearly against all forms of » To have an Intergroup established, it is necessary to gather the homophobia, in particular by government members of EU or friendly signatures of the leaders of three political groups in the countries, such as the USA. We will closely monitor the situation in can- European Parliament. Intergroups are allowed to meet only dur- didate countries and countries in the Neighbourhood Policy. Finally, I would ing the part-sessions in Strasbourg. » The Intergroup on Gay and Lesbian Rights wants to act as a like to focus on young people and issues of education and media." pressure group in order to ensure that gay and lesbian rights are visible not only in the EP, but in the rest of the EU institutions "Europe must co-lead the defence of LGBT and in society. people's right to be guaranteed a normal life in » This Intergroup has been formed through cross-party support all the aspects, not only within European bor- and is dedicated to advocating for the rights and interests of ders, but also all over the world. The EP LGBT people. Intergroup is crucial to promote mainstreaming of LGBT issues, to increase conscience amongst parliamentarians and, through them, More information about the previous term's Intergroup: to guarantee that the European policies are www.gayandlesbianrightsintergroup.org. Raül Rovema coherent with the 'united in diversity' principle."

»P6 ILGA-EUROPE NEWSLETTER even more so. As a result of homophobia and other discrimination, they face higher than Social Inclusion usual risks of drug and alcohol addiction, depression, and suicide. They are often highlighted as a group susceptible to poor- er school performances than

of LGBT Youth European Social Policy the norm. Combined, these effects can lead to a serious level of social exclusion.

Contacts and colleagues throughout Europe are being consulted in order to determine the extent of the problem. We are also looking to see how much research has been done on the various issues facing LGBQ youth to see where there are research gaps that need to be addressed. The end goal of these efforts is to produce a brochure that will raise awareness at the European level of the daunting challenges faced by LGBQ youth and their particular needs. It is hoped that member states will then be more aware of the necessity to explic- itly include this group more visi- bly in their National Action Plans ©Stonewall on Social Inclusion/Poverty.

One of the "hot topics" on the part of the fight against poverty. to ensure it does not ignore the It is useful to highlight that European agenda is no doubt The policy strategy is closely social exclusion experienced by ILGA-Europe and IGLYO will no the European Social Agenda. linked to the Lisbon Agenda the LGBT community. We are doubt work closely together as Headlines have made this point and has been pitched as part currently approaching the issue IGLYO is working on similar top- clear, in particular with regard of the solution. Social inclusion from the angle of multiple dis- ics and issues. Indeed, on 3-10 to the Commission's plans to works around a set of agreed crimination as well as age. We April 2005, IGLYO will be organ- change the Lisbon Agenda and "common objectives." The 2000 are, as a result, concentrating ising a study session dealing to focus primarily on the so- Nice Council and the 2002 our efforts on dealing with the with "Bullying and Isolation in called economic pillar. NGOs Århus European Round Table social exclusion of lesbian, gay, Education". The city of are working hard to ensure the have established these objec- bisexual, and "questioning" Strasbourg will be the backdrop social pillar, which used to be tives. Including, "to facilitate youth as a particularly vulnera- to this exciting session. The on equal footing with the eco- participation in employment ble group and will in the future event will be an important occa- nomic priorities, does not and access by all to resources, also be dealing with the social sion to discuss the exclusion of become forgotten. In the midst rights, goods and services", "to exclusion of LGB older people. LGBT youth within the educa- of all this change in the air, prevent the risks of exclusion", tional systems in Europe. And ILGA-Europe has begun its "to help the most vulnerable", Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and ILGA-Europe hopes, the ses- work on social inclusion, a and "to mobilise all relevant bodies". questioning (LGBQ) youth are sion will make even more peo- topic of huge relevance to large a particularly vulnerable group. ple join its efforts to combat parts of the LGBT community. ILGA-Europe wishes to be an It is already acknowledged that social exclusion of LGBQ youth. active participant in the process youth in general are a vulnera- Social inclusion is an integral to improve social inclusion and ble group, but LGBQ youth are KIM SMOUTER

ILGA-EUROPE NEWSLETTER »P7 Latest developments

On 25 January 2005, the level of agreement. Council of Europe and the that the new financial perspec- Commission organised a hear- Independence is a key ele- Organization for Security and tives will be applied from 2007, ing on the future Fundamental ment of the FRA and is achiev- Co-operation in Europe I believe that it is realistic to Rights Agency (FRA). able only if adequate budget (OSCE). During this debate think that the Fundamental Representatives of governments and resources are allocated to MEP Michael Cashman Rights Agency will be function- and EU institutions, national the agency. This point was (PES/UK) highlighted the cru- al as from 1 January 2007." human rights institutions, aca- stressed by many speakers, cial role that the FRA had to Before this, it will be important demics, politicians, human presumably to counter the play in relation to Article 13 EC to raise, with the EU institu- rights organisations, internation- Commission's proposal to cre- Treaty (anti-discrimination tions and with all EU member al organisations (Council of ate a "light weight structure". clause). He also stressed the states, the profile of the Europe, Organization for importance of dealing with agency and the role it can play Security and Co-operation in A discussion also took place at Article 13 rather than by sepa- for the rights of LGBT people. Europe, OSCE), and national the European Parliament on 1 rating each discrimination We are very interested in and European NGOs took part February when MEP Kinga Gal grounds to tackle issues of learning about your views, in the debate on the future (EPP-ED/H) presented her multiple discriminations. suggestions and work being agency. This hearing highlighted report on the FRA to the done on this subject and would that many issue are still up for Committee on Civil Liberties, The publication of a draft regu- like to work together to max- discussion such as the geo- Justice and Home Affairs. Gal lation is expected in June 2005 imise the agency's benefits to graphical scope of the agency presents the role of the FRA to finalise the structure, remit LGBT people. (limited to EU member states or as threefold: promotion, pro- and geographical scope of the broader scope), its compe- tection of human rights and FRA. This will then be dis- CHRISTINE LOUDES tences (data collection, educa- raising awareness between the cussed and adopted by the tion, promotion of human rights) actors. She envisages the FRA European Council. In the open- More information: and its remit particularly in the as a "network of networks" ing speech to the hearing, ILGA-Europe's position light of the work done by the working closely with national Commission Vice-President paper is available on Council of Europe and national human rights institutions and Franco Frattini stated: "Taking www.ilga-europe.org. human rights institutions. other international human also into account the financial Questions can be addressed to One point encountered a high rights bodies such as the framework, in particular the fact [email protected]. EU Fundamental Rights Agency EU Fundamental Rights

Rights of LGBT people in EU neighbouring countries

The European Neighbourhood Rights in the European to the EU to respect human The principles of the ENP are Policy (ENP) is defined by the Parliament organised a hearing rights. It was also mentioned based on shared common val- European Commission as "a on the aspects of human rights that countries that are mem- ues rather than imposing new policy that invites our in the Neighbourhood Policy. bers of the Council of Europe respect for human rights stan- neighbours to the East and to During this hearing the ENP and, therefore, signatories to dards as recognised by the EU. the South to share in the was given as an example of the European Convention on However, it was stressed that peace, stability and prosperity mainstreaming human rights in Human Rights have higher there is a need to distinguish that we enjoy in the European EU policies. It was also noted human rights standards than between countries that are Union and which aims to create that the ENP sets ambitious other countries. It is therefore making changes to promote a ring of friends around the bor- policies towards Eastern difficult to impose respect for and protect human rights and ders of the new enlarged EU." European, South Caucasian human rights values beyond those that deny human rights. The aim of the ENP is twofold: and Mediterranean countries. the accession countries (and Belarus was cited as an exam- inducing integration and also those which have been prom- ple of a country not respecting structural changes in the coun- The potential of this tool to fur- ised accession). The EU offers ENP principles. tries party to the Policy. ther human rights varies from different benefits to Eastern country to country. It is, for European countries than to the In promoting the human rights On 27 January 2005, the instance, easier to convince Mediterranean or South dimension of the Subcommittee on Human countries that want to access Caucasian countries. Neighbourhood Policy, the EU EU Neighbourhood Policy

»P8 ILGA-EUROPE NEWSLETTER New EQUAL co-operation on sexual orientation

The EU programme EQUAL is project differs - e. g. the focus on different parts of the If the partners are approved for promoting new means of com- Lithuanian project focuses on projects' scope and activities. the next phase, the partnership bating all forms of discrimina- young people and the labour will go on until spring 2007. In EU transnational projects tion and inequalities in the market in general, while the The objective of the Research 2005 a joint information leaflet labour market. A new round of Swedish project focuses on Group is to learn more of how will be published, and the part- tenders under EQUAL was the working environment in the heterosexual norm is con- ners will develop web sections launched in 2004, and a num- schools - the four projects structed and repeated in differ- in English on their respective ber of projects have now been have a lot in common. They all ent areas of working life. The web pages. Communication approved for the starting have an interest in awareness Communication/Policymaking and policymaking activities as phase, during which the proj- raising and capacity building in Group will, with a clear EU per- well as experience exchange ects will consolidate the nation- organisations, institutions and spective, work to raise aware- will go on continuously. al and transnational work. social partners, focusing on ness and propose sustainable Conferences will be held in sexual orientation issues relat- change to discriminatory struc- France 2005, Sweden 2006 Four new EQUAL projects are ed to working life, both on tures in society and among (research conference) and in the process of forming a national and EU levels. They social partners. The Lithuania 2006. A final confer- transnational partnership want to create an inclusive Experience Exchange Group ence, where conclusions will be focussing on sexual orienta- environment, collect and dis- will work to establish sustain- presented, will be held in tion. The projects are: seminate good practice, carry able communication between Slovenia in 2007. Reports on » "Deledios" (France) out research, foster partner- similar organisations and insti- research and other project activ- » "Open and Safe at Work.lt" (Lithuania) ship and develop sustainable tutions in the participating ities/conclusions will be present- » "Partnership for Equality" networks on all levels. countries, in order to make ed during the project period. (Slovenia) sure that key actors can benefit » "Beneath the Surface" (Sweden). The partnership will be built on from good practice, methods In this transnational partner- three different pillars, formed and policies developed and ship, many organisations from Although the scope of each as working groups, which will used in other countries. different countries and from different sectors in working life (NGOs, trade unions, employ- needs to support civil society in party. In December 2004, such February 2005, followed by ers' organisations and compa- these countries. National action plans have been agreed consultations on Action Plans nies) will unite in spreading the NGOs can play an important between the EU and Israel, once the Council has given its same message in a strategic role at two stages of the Jordan, Morocco, Moldova, the green light." way. They all want to contribute process. They can put pres- Palestinian Authority, Tunisia to positive progress on sexual sure on their government when and Ukraine. They contain Unilateral reporting will take orientation issues related to an agreement between the EU human rights clauses that can place in 2006 when the working life, both on national and their country - called be referred to by national Commission will monitor the and EU levels. They all are "action plan" - is negotiated, NGOs. The Commission has implementation of Action Plan eager to start the transnational and once this action plan is affirmed its intention to inte- by countries. This will be a co-operation - as soon as the agreed, they can monitor the grate a second series of part- good opportunity to create visi- national representatives of the respect of its human rights ner countries into the ENP dur- bility for the rights of LGBT European Social Fund have clause. These action plans set ing the course of next year - people in the countries that are given their approval, which is out precise steps agreed with Egypt, Lebanon, Armenia, supposed to become a party to expected before summer. each partner for the 3-5 years Azerbaijan and Georgia: "We the European Neighbourhood to come. It is a statement of will launch this exercise by pre- Policy. ANETTE SJÖDIN intent by the EU and the state senting country reports in CL RFSL/Transnational co-ordina- tor of the EQUAL project "Beneath the Surface" More information available on the Commission's website: http://europa.eu.int/comm/world/enp/overview_en.htm.

ILGA-EUROPE NEWSLETTER »P9 Homosexual Nazi victims not always remembered

Homosexual victims of Nazis

On 27 January 2005, Europe marked the 60th anniversary of the libera- tion of the Nazi death camp at Auschwitz-Birkenau, and in many coun- Commemorative plaque unveiled in Italy tries it was also a Holocaust Memorial Day. Alongside with Jewish, Roma and Slavic people, political opponents, and disabled people, thousands of On 26 January 2005 a black marble plaque surmounted by a pink homosexual people were tortured and killed by the Nazis. triangle was unveiled at the site of the only Nazi concentration camp on Italian soil - a rice-mill at San Sabba near Trieste con- On the same day the European Parliament adopted a resolution on verted into a camp in 1943. The mounting of the plaque, pro- remembrance of the Holocaust, anti-Semitism and racism. The res- posed by Italy's gay rights organisation Arcigay, was backed by olution states that "hundreds of thousands of Jews, Roma, homo- the city's mayor and council. sexuals, Poles and other prisoners of various nationalities were murdered" at Auschwitz-Birkenau and stresses that remembrance events are important not only as occasions to remember and con- demn Nazi crimes but also to learn "wider lessons about the dan- Monument in Berlin gers of victimising people on the basis of race, ethnic origin, reli-

Europe - 1945-2005 Europe gion, politics or sexual orientation". The Berlin memorial to honour the homosexual victims of National Socialism is also taking shape. It is made possible after Patricia Prendiville, Executive Director of ILGA-Europe said: "It is a a decision of the German Bundestag adopted on 12 December very important resolution and we are pleased homosexual victims of 2003. Meanwhile, the site for the memorial was chosen: it will be Nazi persecutions are being given delayed but deserved recognition mounted on the Southeast edge of the Tiergarten park in the and remembrance alongside with the other groups of Holocaust victims. Berlin-Mitte district, opposite the memorial for the murdered Jews Unfortunately the historical fact of systematic persecution of homo- of Europe. An international artistic two-phase tender for the sexual men and women by the Nazi regime is still being denied by design of the memorial was launched last year, and by the dead- some individuals and organisations, and in some countries homo- line - 31 January 2005 - 124 artists and architects had submitted sexual victims are being excluded from official remembrance their initial ideas and bids. The final competition will be launched events. I hope this resolution will promote just and unprejudiced at a colloquium in Berlin on 7-8 April 2005. Up to seven projects understanding of the history and will eradicate unfair denial and selected from those bidding will be invited, together with 23 other exclusion of homosexual victims." participants, to concretise their proposals in this final competition. The final selection of the winning project is scheduled for the end Auschwitz ceremony without homosexuals of this year/early next year. This year's event at Auschwitz-Birkenau, however, demonstrated that there is still work to be done to achieve full recognition of and More information: www.gedenkort.de/eng-start.htm. respect for those victims persecuted for their homosexuality. Two months prior to the remembrance celebration, the Polish LGBT organisation Kampania Przeciw Homofobii (Campaign Against New claim opportunities for Holocaust victims Homophobia) sent a letter to the curator of the Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum asking permission for the group to take part in the official Swiss banks have now published a new list of bank account hold- ceremony and to lay a wreath. The group has not received any ers who were probably or possibly victims of Nazi persecution. reply, and its members who tried to enter with the wreath on the ILGA-Europe asks member organisations and newsletter readers day of the ceremony were not let it. KPH issued the following state- in relevant countries to publicise this information with a view to ment: "We really wanted to celebrate the memory of our brothers reaching individuals who may be the owner of such an account, or and sisters murdered in Nazi camps. However, our letters asking the heir of an owner. for permission to participate were left without answer. Even though we could not be there, we will remember our brothers and sisters Information on making claims can be obtained from: marked with the stigma of the pink triangle. May this tragedy never www.crt-ii.org, by telephoning 001-800-33-4646, or by e- repeat." mailing: [email protected]. JL NIGEL WARNER

»P10 ILGA-EUROPE NEWSLETTER oned in concentration camps are only repealed in 1971! launch a campaign to force not included in their pension contri- Austria's right-wing government bution periods that form the basis 2005 is an important year of politi- to change the compensation act for calculating the amount of their cal celebration in Austria: the to include homosexual victims monthly retirement pension; con- country celebrates the 60th before 8 May 2005. The cam- trary to their SS guards whose anniversary of the Second paign will include media work Commemorative plaque in service periods in the camps are Republic, founded after the libera- and direct actions to draw the Mauthausen taken into account by the Austrian tion from the Nazis; the 50th attention of the international Europe - 1945-2005 Austria still refuses state pension system as contribu- anniversary of becoming again a public to this scandal and to compensation tion times and, thus, increase the free country after the State Treaty embarrass the ÖVP/FPÖ gov- amount of their monthly pensions. was signed with the four occupa- ernment. HOSI Wien calls upon The Austrian lesbian and gay tion powers in 1955, and the 10th ILGA-Europe and its member movement has been joining offi- On several occasions the con- anniversary of its membership in organisations to support the cial commemoration celebrations servative parties voted down law the European Union. This year, campaign with protests and in the former concentration camp initiatives introduced by the the annual celebration of the lib- other actions deemed appropri- of Mauthausen near Linz for opposition parties - Social eration of the Mauthausen camp ate. A direct appeal will soon go more than 20 years and was Democrats and Greens - to rem- will take place on 8 May. For this out to the various mailing lists able to mount there the first com- edy this situation, the last time as year's 60th anniversary, around and through the various informa- memorative plaque for the recently as in 2001; in February 10,000 people from all over tion channels. Please, join in to homosexual victims in 1984. 2004, a similar motion tabled by Europe and overseas are expect- finally recognise and rehabilitate the opposition was deferred in ed to participate: survivors, family the gay and lesbian Nazi victims However, more than 20 years of the Parliament's social affairs members of the 200,000 people in Austria on equal footing with all political lobbying could not per- committee. The ÖVP and the killed in the camp, old and young the other victim groups! suade the conservative People's rightwing Freedom Party, FPÖ, anti-fascists. The LGBT movement Party (ÖVP) to vote for an have had a majority in the will not only try to also mobilise an More information on the symposium: amendment to the Federal Nazi Parliament since 1983. These extra big LGBT delegation this www.hosiwien.at; Victim Compensation Act in two parties consider homosexual year, but will hold an international HOSI Wien's 2001 exhibition order to include those persecut- Nazi victims as ordinary criminals scientific symposium on the fate of "Lost Lives - Nazi ed on the grounds of their homo- since the total ban on homosexu- gay men and lesbian women in Persecution of Homosexuals sexuality. Therefore, this victim ality was not introduced by the Austria during the Nazi era. The in Vienna, 1938-45" is avail- group is not only refused official Nazis but the 1852 Austrian penal event will take place in Linz and able in an on-line version (both recognition but also any legal code provision prohibiting both Mauthausen on 6-8 May 2005. in German and English): entitlement to compensation. female and male homosexuality www.ausdemleben.at. Among other things this means remained in force - unchanged - In March 2005, Homosexuelle that the months and years impris- between 1938 and 1945 and was Initiative (HOSI) Wien will KURT KRICKLER

Holocaust - ERA Swiss bank claims

A new list is now available of Swiss bank account holders who were probably or possibly victims of Nazi persecution. The list, resulting from further negotiations with Swiss banks, is part Please check the website of the Claims Resolution Tribunal, of the claims process under the Settlement of the Holocaust Victim Assets class action litiga- www.crt-ii.org, periodically for updates regarding the tion in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York, Chief Judge Edward R. Settlement. Korman presiding. To date, the Court has authorized repayment of more than $220 million from the Settlement Fund to bank account owners or their heirs. For more information and to obtain applications: The new list of Swiss bank account holders is on the website of the Claims Resolution www.crt-ii.org Tribunal, www.crt-ii.org. Applications are also available on this website. Please call the tele- Telephone: 1-800-33 4646 phone number below if you are unable to view this new list of bank account holders. Email: [email protected] » Individuals who believe that they are owners, or heirs of owners, of the accounts included in the new list must file an application. Also published on the website www.crt-ii.org is a new list of » Applications may only be submitted for the accounts appearing on the new list. 36 names of Holocaust Era insurance policyholders who » If you previously filed an application with the Claims Resolution Tribunal for another account had policies issued by the Austrian insurer Der Anker and you now want to claim an account on the new list, you must submit a new application. which, because of special circumstances, are covered by » There is no fee or other charge for filing and processing claims. the Settlement. Insurance claims forms may also be down- » Deadline for filing new applications: July 13, 2005. loaded from this website.

A list of organizations that will assist individuals with the applications is included with the claim forms and is available at www.crt-ii.org.

ILGA-EUROPE NEWSLETTER »P11 Law Enforcement Officers Hate Crimes Training Programme Launched

The Organization for Security sition of information related to "Improving the effectiveness of ommendations or other docu- and Co-operation in Europe's the law enforcement communi- law enforcement in preventing mentation pertaining to the Office for Democratic ties within the OSCE region in and combating hate crimes" at LGBT communities' recommen- Institutions and Human Rights regards to hate crimes. which there will be a session dations for effective response (ODIHR) has launched a major Knowledge about the policies, dedicated to hate crimes based to hate crimes and "homopho- training programme for law procedures and reported prac- on the sexual orientation of the bic hate incidents". ODIHR enforcement officers on tices of law enforcement, judi- victim. ILGA-Europe has been wants to include these recom- responses to hate crimes. As cial and governmental and non- consulted on this session and mendations into the "good a result of ILGA-Europe's inter- governmental agencies in their been approached as a possible practices" website to better vention and recommendations response to, investigation of speaker at the session. understand the issue and be made at the Human Dimension and management of hate guided by recommendations Implementation Meeting in crimes is sought. Those prac- ODIHR is seeking ILGA- from the affected community. October 2004 (cf. IE Newsletter tices judged to be most effec- Europe's assistance in identify- 4/04, p. 12), hate crimes is tive will be designated "best ing any electronic or written Anyone who has knowledge of defined to include violent or crim- practices" and appear in an material with regards to the this kind of information or with inal acts based on sexual orien- electronic library database on police response to hate crimes. good points of contact within your tation. ODIHR has identified the ODIHR website. The data- They are also seeking our local law enforcement community ILGA-Europe as a key stake- base will also be used to con- assistance in identifying points is asked to pass this information holder in the endeavour, and the struct credible training pro- of contact within the law to Don Bisson or Miha Lobnik at programme facilitator has active- grammes for law enforcement enforcement community who the ILGA-Europe office so that ly sought our assistance in the officers to tackle hate crimes could assist in identifying their we may pass this information on development of the programme. throughout the OSCE region. policies and procedures on the to ODIHR. OSCE will also organise a issue. They are also interested The project involves the acqui- seminar in September on in collecting guides, written rec- DON BISSON

ILGA-Europe to Increase Capacity for Human Rights Violations Monitoring and Documenting

The upcoming ILGA-Europe seminar on Human Rights Violations tistics on hate crimes that can be included in databases and Monitoring and Documenting in Krakow (see p.19 for more details) reports by international human rights organisations. Because we is the first step in an effort by ILGA-Europe to increase its and its have no standardised way to collect this information we many members' capacity to monitor and document human rights viola- times are unable to respond to these requests. tions against LGBT people. Our goal is to try and standardise the process we use to document human rights violations so that we After the Krakow seminar and a similar one to be held in Slovenia may pass this information along to international human rights organisa- later this year we will be working with organisations already tions, EU institutions, the Council of Europe and the OSCE/ODIHR. involved in monitoring and documenting human rights violation to develop forms specific to monitoring and documenting hate crimes Our focus will be on monitoring and documenting hate crimes against LGBT people. We plan on having a training seminar after against LGBT people as this is the area where there is currently a the forms and process are developed for members. Those trained lot of attention because of the new mandate of the OSCE/ODIHR. will then have the capacity to train others in their organisations. Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe Organization for We are constantly being asked if we have any information or sta- DB

»P12 ILGA-EUROPE NEWSLETTER European Court of Human Rights NEWS CLIPS Compulsory isolation of HIV+ person violates human rights

Sweden was found guilty of pital in order to prevent him for the applicant's compulsory violating Article 5 (1) of the from spreading the HIV infec- isolation, with the result that he European Convention on tion. The applicant's actual had been placed involuntarily in Human Rights (right to liberty deprivation of liberty lasted a hospital for almost one and a and security) for compulsory almost one and a half years. half years in total, the authori- isolating an HIV positive per- The Court held unanimously ties had failed to strike a fair son. that the compulsory isolation of balance between the need to The applicant is a Swedish the applicant was not a last ensure that the virus did not European Court national who in 1994 discov- resort in order to prevent him spread and the applicant's right of Human Rights ered he was infected with the from spreading the HI virus to liberty. HI virus and had transmitted after less severe measures had On 25 January 2005, the the virus to another man in been considered and found to More information is European Court of Human 1990. The local medical officer be insufficient to safeguard the available on the Court's Rights delivered a judgement in applied at the court for an public interest. Moreover, by website: the case of Enhorn v. Sweden order to keep the applicant in extending over a period of www.echr.coe.int. (application no. 56529/00). compulsory isolation in a hos- almost seven years the order JL Belarus NEWS CLIPS Anti-gay government campaign Bulgaria to banish a German embassy employee. As he had a diplo- First gay radio matic passport he was not arrested but his boyfriend was, programme and both were accused of drug use. The story was broadcast on Belarus' national TV with President Lukashenka many homophobic comments. The first independent gay radio The first issue was the story of programme was broadcast live a 24 year old man who tried to During the consultation meet- Later, a Czech attaché in Belarus on air by NET Radio on 6 commit suicide after realising ing with the Belarusian Security was accused of paedophilia and February. The programme is he was gay. He shared his sex- Council last September, banished form Belarus. Every called "Gemini", and is a co- ual orientation struggles with his Belarus' president Victor day, national TV broadcast production of the Bulgarian Gay family and received full support Lukashenka said: "We have to images of him kissing on the Organisation Gemini and NET from them. Yet, he could not show our society in the near streets and in bars with young Radio. accept he was gay and tried to future, what they [EU and USA] men around the age of 20. TV kill himself. Mitko and his sister are doing here, how they are reporters claimed that these boys Discrimination, social isolation shared that life-changing story trying to turn our girls into pros- were under the age of 14. and violence, friends, family in an interview called "Oh my titutes, how they are feeding and school, love, (registered) God, I am gay!" our citizens with illicit drugs, Latest activities include partnerships, religion, army, how they are spreading sexual blocking access to some male prostitution, media cover- Gemini is broadcast live inversion here, which methods Russian LGBT websites such age of gay lifestyle, on-line dat- on NET Radio at 1 p.m. they are employing." us www.gay.ru and ing, sports and arts are part of every Sunday. www.gayly.ru without any the broad spectrum of themes Shortly after that statement, an explanations. that will be covered during the DESISLAVA PETROVA unofficial campaign discrediting weekly broadcasts. gays began. The first step was SVYATOSLAV SEMENTSOV

ILGA-EUROPE NEWSLETTER »P13 Bulgaria First openly gay politician

Something unbelievable has Balabanov was motivated by Michael Cashman and Axel out that Europe's Social happened in Bulgaria - the the declaration of the Bulgarian Queval from the French Democrats today act according most popular politician of the socialists stating that they were Socialist Party, it became clear to the slogan "Make the invisi- country, 26-year-old Ivelin going to protect the interests of that discrimination against ble visible!" meaning that LGBT Iordanov, a member of the gay people and, thus, invited LGBT people is a multi-faceted people should get "out of the Socialist Party of Bulgaria them to vote for the SPB. phenomenon. Many gay and closet" as they have a right to NEWS CLIPS since 1997, declared that he lesbian people only do not want live in accordance with their does not want to hide his Participants in the conference to waste energy in fighting for sexual orientation and gender homosexual orientation. It is "Sexual Minorities and Social their rights, but not even want to identity. Political parties in turn interesting that the leader of Democracy in Europe", which reveal their identity. They simply take into consideration that the Socialist Youth of Bulgaria, took place in Sofia on 3-5 follow the mainstream behav- LBGT citizens represent a tan- Michael Balabanov, immedi- December 2004, also reported iour of heterosexual majority. gible voting power (it is ately suggested that Ivelin how parties of the Left in Others, though, are ready to believed to be at least 5 % in should enter the SYB in order Europe have been promoting struggle for public acceptance. any country). to jointly promote the rights of anti-discriminatory legislation. In sexual minorities. At that, the training conducted by MEP Cashman and Queval pointed ELENA ZAMURA

Ireland Czech Republic Civil Partnership Bill Partnership bill rejected published

On 11 February 2005 the svobody - Demokraticka unie), NEWS CLIPS Czech Chamber of Deputies said she did not know whether rejected a bill on same-sex she would re-table the bill in registered partnerships. This is this election term: "Evidently not the first time the Czech there is no will for this in this parliament reject such a bill. As Chamber of Deputies." on previous occasions, the The proposals to embed in law vote was very tight - this time, same-sex partnerships have the bill was even short of only regularly divided individual one vote to be passed. parties, while only the Christian After the results were Democrats are against them in Senator Norris announced, the opponents unison. Generally, the legisla- started applauding in the room. tion tends to be more supported Irish Senator Norris, who successfully challenged Ireland's ban on Christian Democrat MP Jiri by the left. This was shown by sexual acts between adult consenting men at the European Court Karas (KDU-CSL) told the the vote: The bill was backed of Human Rights in 1988, published a civil partnership bill. media that he considered the by 82 out of the 165 deputies parliament's decision as a vic- present - most MPs voting in The issue of LGBT equality gained a momentum currently. Late tory of common sense. favour belong to the Social last year, a lesbian couple won the right to challenge the govern- Representatives of the Gay Democrats, Communists, the ment on getting their relationship recognised for tax purposes. The and Lesbian League said Freedom Union (US-DEU), pair was married in Canada, and is now seeking changes at home behind the scene that they some to the opposition Civic (cf. IE Newsletter 4/04, p. 15). would try again to have the law Democratic Party ODS passed. One of the drafters of (Obcanska demokraticka the bill, Tana Fischerova (Unie strana).

»P14 ILGA-EUROPE NEWSLETTER Sweden France NEWS CLIPS Homophobic priest Law against homophobic acquitted hate crimes Swedish priest Åke Green who had been sentenced to a one-month prison term for homophobic statements in a sermon, was acquitted In December 2004, the French Senate gave final approval to legis- by an appeal court on 11 February 2005. The ruling upheld his right lation making homophobic speech and publications a criminal to preach biblical views even if many found them offensive. The 63- offence. The bill adds sexuality to an existing law banning hate year-old Pentecostal pastor had given a sermon on the Baltic island crimes against other minorities. Under the legislation, anyone who of Öland in 2003 calling homosexuals "a cancerous tumour on the provokes hatred or violence on the basis of sex or sexual orienta- body of society" and blaming them for the spread of HIV/AIDS. tion could be fined and subject to one year in jail. The Roman Catholic Church opposed the bill arguing it could be He became the first person convicted of inciting hatred on grounds of sexual used against priests speaking out against homosexuality. Despite orientation under legislation introduced in 2002, provoking debate about free- these concerns the bill had little difficulty in passing the Senate dom of speech and religion in a highly secular and egalitarian country. where the conservative hold a majority. The bill that was pushed by The appeal court in Jönköping quashed Green's conviction and found President Jacques Chirac gives France the toughest hate crime leg- that "nothing indicates that the pastor used his position as a preacher islation in the European Union. as a cover for attacking homosexuals". It defended his right to preach French gay rights group Inter-LGBT hailed the vote as a decisive what it called "the Bible's categorical condemnation of homosexual rela- step to combat growing homophobia. The government drafted the tions as a sin", even if such views were "alien to most citizens". RFSL, law after Sébastien Nouchet, a young gay man, was brutally the Swedish Federation for LGBT rights, called the verdict "outrageous". attacked. After he was beaten, the aggressors poured gasoline over him and set him on fire leaving him severely burned. Russia Supreme Courts rejects Ukraine NEWS CLIPS same-sex marriage New LGBT community centre opened

Press conference in Nicolaev

Last December the Nicolaev Association of Gays, Lesbians and Bisexuals (LIGA) in Southern Ukraine held a press conference launching the project "Establishing of the Centre for MSM in the city Eduard Murzin (right) of Nicolaev". The purpose of the project is to increase the legal and On 15 February 2005, the Russian Supreme Court refused to rule in medical literacy of the LGBT community in the fields of HIV/AIDS, to favour of same-sex marriage arguing it was not its competence to encourage personal freedoms, and to get involved into advocacy change the Family Code - this would be up to the legislator. processes. The presentation date marked the 13th anniversary of Last January two Russian men applied for a marriage certificate from a the repeal of the total ban on male homosexuality in Ukraine. Moscow registration office. One of them, Eduard Murzin, is a (heterosexu- Representatives of NGOs, mass media, as well as medical practi- al) MP in the Russian republic of Bashkiria. His motivation for participating tioners from the Nicolaev HIV Centre took part in the event. in the attempted marriage was to promote human rights for sexual minorities in Russia. He and his gay "partner" Eduard Mishin, editor-in-chief of a gay website, have spoken publicly about the union for several days before As the local independent paper Krik reported: "The intense political the filed the application in order to draw public attention the issue. enthusiasm in Ukraine, which we have been witnessing lately, also influenced a splash of activity in other spheres of Ukrainian society. But the registrar's office refused to issue a marriage certificate That encouraged sexual minorities of the city of Nicolaev to openly because the law does not provide for same-sex marriage. Murzin and loudly announce their existence." argues that the restriction of marriage to opposite-sex couples violates the Russian Constitution and the European Human Rights Convention. He said he would appeal the Supreme Court's ruling to the European MAXIM ANMEGHICHEAN Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg.

ILGA-EUROPE NEWSLETTER »P15 United Kingdom United Kingdom Landmark ruling on February - work harassment LGBT history month

A manager who was persistently taunted about being gay by senior Jacqui Smith, the government colleagues won a landmark case on 28 January 2005 under new minister responsible for equality, laws against sexual orientation discrimination at work. Rob said: "I hope that lesbian, gay, bi- Whitfield, 28, had been earning £ 54,000 at a waste management sexual and transgender groups company until constant belittling and goading by other executives and their supporters across the NEWS CLIPS forced him to leave last year. country will take the opportunity to participate in the month and His victory at an employment tribunal is the first successful case organise LGBT events in their brought under the Employment Equality (Sexual Orientation) areas. I believe the month will be Regulations, and is expected to set a benchmark for employers important in helping to drive the who fail to stamp out anti-gay or anti-lesbian harassment. He was awarded £ 35,345 in compensation for constructive unfair dismissal, culture change to create a more harassment and discrimination. inclusive society. It will also be a great opportunity to uncover The tribunal accepted his claim of constructive unfair dismissal and Florence Nightingale some hidden LGBT histories." added sharp criticism of the company's failure to accept or deal with In February 2005, schools in the The scheme was designed by the problem. UK were encouraged to hold les- Schools Out!, a group campaign- sons exploring the achievements ing for LGBT equality in schools, of gay men and women through- to get LGBT issues onto the cur- out history as part of the first gay riculum. They also encouraged World trade union history month. The project high- libraries, theatres, sports clubs LGBT rights network lighted the hidden history of and councils across the country famous names who would prob- to hold events. launched ably today identity as lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender, Nigel Tart from Schools Out! said: such as William Shakespeare, "Since the 80s, LGBT issues have The UK's Trade Union paigns for equality generally." who was rumoured to be bisexu- been squeezed out of subjects like Congress (TUC) and the global al, and Florence Nightingale, who history, English and drama. trade union movement have The meeting heard from repre- few people know was a lesbian. Today's students only encounter

NEWS CLIPS created a network for LGBT sentatives of trade unions in them, if at all, in relation to bully- campaigns to help trade union- Canada, Italy, New Zealand and Other events covered during the ing, sex education and AIDS. ists put pressure on the South Africa, as well as from the month included talks on the early LGBT history month is our first International Labour global union confederations years of gays and lesbians in major project to reclaim our place Organisations (ILO) and the UN covering teachers and public British television and discussions in the curriculum." Commission on Human Rights sector workers. Many more of the history of the British LGBT to adopt positive policies on les- national union centres were Muslim movement. Pupils were More info: bian and gay equality. present and signed up to the also studying modern gay icons www.lgbthistorymonth.org.uk. new network. such as Freddie Mercury and Sir Speaking after event organised Ian McKellen, alongside more JL last December by the TUC at The Congress also adopted a historical gay and bisexual fig- the World Congress of the resolution calling for national ures such as Isaac Newton and International Confederation of laws prohibiting discrimination Alexander the Great. Free Trade Unions in Miyazaki, against gay and lesbian workers The voluntary initiative, modelled Japan, TUC General Secretary and called on trade unions to on the successful black history Brendan Barber said: "This is a "fight prejudice, bigotry and month held each October, is major step forward for the trade intolerance in the workplace, in being backed by the government union movement and for LGBT society and in the trade unions". and has been given a grant by campaigners. It will allow us to A separate resolution on the Department for Education secure better rights at work and HIV/AIDS also referred to the and Skills. It was officially will make it easier to include specific interests of gay men launched at the Houses of trade unions in community cam- and lesbians. Parliament on 7 February. William Shakespeare

»P16 ILGA-EUROPE NEWSLETTER EVENTS EVENTS EVENTS EVENTS Europride 2005 17-27 June 2005, Oslo, Norway EVENTS

Gay Pride owes its origin to the EuroPride is a festival encom- this programme. the pillars of modern civilisa- riots in the streets of passing culture and debate for tion. Art plays a vital role in Greenwich village in New York equal opportunities and rights While the parade through the the process of discovering in 1969, when gays, lesbians together with entertainment, a streets of Oslo on June 25 is one's self-identity. This is no and transvestites for the first street parade and huge cele- one of the highlights of less true for lesbians and EVENTS time acted against police bru- bratory events. EuroPride 2005, the emphasis gay men. EuroPride 2005 in tality and oppression. While the of the Pride Village will be on Oslo is therefore putting first commemoration of this This year's event in Oslo is the cultural events, music and together a programme that event was highly political, Pride first EuroPride outside the building a "Pride Village Spirit", will provide a stimulus for events now have a high cultur- European Union. 2005 marks completed with information various forms of artistic al profile. Gay Pride is celebrat- the 100th anniversary of stands, shops, restaurants, expression, such as music, ed on all continents and in Norway's independence. The fully licensed bars, and smaller stage performances, films, more than 500 cities around authorities have developed an tents in which various events and literature. EVENTS the world. extensive programme to mark will take place. Also, a religious the diversity, openness and co- midnight mass will be held on More information: EuroPride was introduced in operation that infuse Thursday night. www.europride.no 1992 with the aim of develop- Norwegian society today. ing an LGBT European identity. EuroPride is proud to a part of Artistic expression is one of ARNE WALDERHAUG

ILGA-EUROPE NEWSLETTER »P17 Baltic Pride 2005 8-14 August 2005, 3rd International Tallinn, Estonia Conference on LGBT Families 25-26 October 2005, EVENTS Paris, France

This conference is for researchers, academics, judges, social workers, family and children professionals, lawyers and all others interested in the issue of LGBT parenting. The conference's First Baltic Pride 2004 objectives are to facilitate in-depth discussions on LGBT parent- This year the Estonian capital of other ex-Soviet countries. ing and to present the latest scientific findings on that issue. EVENTS Tallinn will host second Baltic Pride. Researchers from various countries (UK, Norway, Spain, US, The first ever LGBT pride event in Organising this event is a tough Canada, Belgium, etc.) will join French researchers and aca- the Baltic countries took place in and expensive business. demics. Tallinn last summer and offered a Organisers are planning many variety of events culminated in a fundraising events to ensure the The conference will explore such areas as actors in LGBT fami- march through central Tallinn Pride is free and accessible to lies, LGBT family rights, and growing up in an LGBT Family. attracting hundreds of participants as many people as possible. from Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, However, any practical advice, The conference is organised by the Association of Gay and EVENTS Finland, Sweden and other coun- suggestions and proposals are Lesbian Parents and Future Parents (APGL) and supported by tries plus probably even bigger very welcome. The organisers major French research institutes (CNRS, EHESS, INED). The crowd of curious spectators. are also looking for partners and conference is taking place in conjunction with the 27th ILGA information on available fund- European conference to be held in Paris on 26-30 October This year the organisers are plan- ing. You can also help the Baltic 2005. A reduced fee will apply for ILGA members. If you are an ning a series of art, music and lit- Pride by purchasing our high- ILGA member, please mention this in your registration form. erature events exploring works by quality rainbow flags! All further and about LGBT people. "Family information and contact details Further details, programme, registration and information at: EVENTS adoptions" is offered by the organ- will soon be available on our [email protected] isers: this is a system which will website: www.pride.ee. www.conference-apgl.org help to accommodate participants who otherwise would not be able We hope to see you in MAYA SALVADO to afford to come to Tallinn with Tallinn this August! the local individuals and families, mainly to help participants from KRISSU

EVENTS Ania Gruszczynska of tarism, nationalism, predomi- relates to the outline of this proj- Kampania Przeciw Homofobii nance of a particular religion, etc. ect, but is not written in English, Call for in Poland is currently compiling » personal accounts of what it please let me know, too. Please an anthology of stories by means to be a LBQ activist in send your contribution by 15 Eastern European LBQ women your country/region, following June 2005. essays activists and would encourage loosely the format of an contributions covering: "activist's coming-out story". Why English? - Because this way the anthology will be acces- EVENTS Anthology » the general situation of les- Any contributions on LBQ litera- sible to a wider public, and espe- bian, bisexual and queer ture, culture, identity, etc. are cially those who have no idea to be women in your country/region, very welcomed as long as they about the reality of activism in preferably with an emphasis on are focused on Eastern, Central this region and need some edu- LBQ activism (or contributions and Southeast Europe. Please cation on that subject. compiled concentrating solely on the limit your essays to 10-12 pages issue of activism); maximum. If you know of a ANIA GRUSZCZYNSKA » homophobia such as mili- great piece of writing that Campaign Against Homophobia EVENTS [email protected]

»P18 ILGA-EUROPE NEWSLETTER Croatia: "Culture for Tolerance" EVENTS Queer Zagreb Festival 21-24 April 2005, Cracow, Poland The festival "Culture for Tolerance" is organised by the Cracow branch of Kampania Przeciw Homofobii (Campaign Against Homophobia). Its goal is to introduce the theme of homosexuality into the wider discourse, to draw attention to the discrimination and exclusion against which LGBT people struggle on a daily basis. The organisers have set a goal to establish a neutral space in which people - irrespective of their sexual orientation - might feel free, and

one that will enable them to engage in dialogue on equal footing. EVENTS

The festival's inaugural run took place on 6-9 May 2004. It prompt- ed, on the one hand, protests and aggressive attacks from radical right-wing groups (i.e. physical attacks on peaceful participants of the March for Tolerance), yet on the other hand, there was positive interest in the festival (cf. IE Newsletter 2/04, p. 15), exceeding the organisers' highest expectations (as well as their capacity for dealing with what took place during the festival). And this is what confirms our belief that "Culture for Tolerance" is a necessary event worth repeating. Queer Zebra The following events are planned for this year's festival: EVENTS Queer Zagreb Festival was established in 2003 with the goal to » academic session "Sexual Minorities: Pride and Exclusion" stimulate and promote queer culture in Zagreb, the region and the » photo exhibition - women talking about women visit to the Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum in Oúwiæcim world. Combining art, theory and activism, QZF fosters queer identi- » » film screenings ties that are subversive, but not dangerous for other people. The » gender training workshop focus is of course LGBT art, although being aware of the particular » discussion on the state of the LGBT movement in Poland and in post-war situation in Croatia, the festival is connecting broader per- the countries of the Balkan Region spectives of queer identity (such as nationalism, violence, chauvin- » concerts ism, patriarchy, etc.) with sexuality. » "lady space" » partying in the clubs ILGA-Europe's seminars on human rights and fundraising. EVENTS The "queer" has made its entry very late in Croatia. However, main- » streaming of LGBT rights is closely connected with Croatia's aspira- ILGA-Europe is glad to be present at the festival. During the festi- tion to join the EU and with the mainstreaming of the human rights val it will organise two seminars. It will also encourage seminar discourse. It sounds good to protect human rights. Queer Zagreb participants to take part in the March for Tolerance. Festival nurtures another approach. We realised that the frequent reduction of the human rights discourse to civil and political rights is The March for Tolerance is a protest against discrimination against not a sustainable strategy for empowering sexual minorities in minority groups, against the denial of their constitutional rights, against places where queer culture does not exist. Having rights, but not to attempts to exclude them from the public sphere. Our appeal focuses on respect for the principles of democracy, freedom and human rights. have the culture is one of the paradoxes of Croatian daily realities. EVENTS The programme of the festival is subject to changes and amend- Therefore, Queer Zagreb is dedicated to presenting the most recent ments. For updates please contact: and challenging artists active in the queer field. In addition to invit- ing international arts programmes, the festival takes special notice Telephone: (+48) 608 208 918 of local people willing to make efforts in creating new meanings of [email protected] queer realities. Each year we produce a theatre show or a short http://tolerancja.gej.net/english/ movie by local artists. Keen to expand the possibilities of the region's TOMASZ SZYPULA population to participate in our activities, we organised the first ever competition of queer short stories in the Balkans and have received a massive response that resulted in a book published in December 2004. EVENTS

In accordance with the Queer Zagreb 2005 topic of "heteronormativi- ty of childhoods", in the context of which we want to explore the means society has and uses in order to protect children and youth from any non-normative or queer influence, we are organising a new literary project focusing on queer fairy tales and children's stories.

One of the most interesting works of art the festival produced is a "Queer Zebra" that is becoming a permanent installation in one of EVENTS the main squares in Zagreb. It is a work by the young Croatian visual artist Silvio Vujicic who painted one street crossing in rainbow colours making a simple and very strong statement of "crossing" to the other side that the LGBT movement still awaits.

More information: www.queerzagreb.org

GORDAN BOSANAC

ILGA-EUROPE NEWSLETTER »P19 United in Diversity

27th ILGA European Conference 26 - 30 October

2005

FIAP

Paris, France www.ilga-europe.org www.ilgaeuropeparis2005.org ©Paris Tourist Office, www.fiap.asso.fr photographer Stéphane Querbes