While discrimination against LGBTIQ+ people persists in many places in the world including throughout the EU, EuroPride Valletta is an opportunity to “raise EU political profile as a key actor on the global scene for the rights of LGBTIQ+ persons. Doing no harm as a guiding principle and protecting LGBTIQ+ persons and human rights defenders is at the centre of our approach. But ‘do no harm’ does not mean ‘do nothing” (EEAS SG Sannino, IDAHOBIT, 17 May 2023).

It is the moment to show to the young generation that we can build a continent where you can be who you are, love who you want, and aim as high as you want. A continent reconciled with nature and leading the way on new technologies. A continent that is united in freedom and peace. This is Europe’s moment to once again answer the call of history.- State of the Union address, Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission

During the EuroPride week, a LGBTIQ+ Human Rights Conference (13-15 September on the agenda) takes place including the following topics:

• Activism and Resilience: LGBTIQ+ Rights in the Middle East & North Africa;
• A lens on the LGBTIQ+ community in Africa: A Platform for Legislators;
• LGBTIQ+ persons with disability: re-envisioning the road to equality;
• Pride under Attack: Perspectives from the Ground & Above.

As a commemoration of the 1969 Stonewall uprising in New York City, EGALITE, the LGBTI+ association representing the staff of all the European Institutions and bodies, will participate actively at the EuroPride Valletta March raising awareness of the importance of the European Union in leading by example, advocating LGBTIQ+ rights in Europe and beyond. Unfortunately, as the EEAS SG has stressed, “In many of our societies, the rights we have conquered along the years are again questioned in many ways”. Our march in Valletta will be a strong call for the freedom to love and to be who we are.. United in our diversity. The EU is firmly standing against discrimination, prejudice and hate, and committed to protecting LGBTIQ+ persons.

As the organisers highlight “The EuroPride March is not just a walk; it’s a declaration of love, equality, and inclusion…This electrifying event is an opportunity to stand together, shoulder to shoulder, and showcase our commitment to diversity and inclusion. As we march through the historic streets of Floriana and Valletta, we make a resounding statement that love knows no boundaries and that every individual deserves respect, understanding, and equal rights.”