Concern in Europe over homophobe violence in Kyiv

Catherine Ashton, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy has called on the Ukrainian authorities to protect the rights of all Ukrainians, including lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender persons, to peaceful assembly and to freedom of expression

Statement by the Spokesperson of the HR Ashton on homophobic violence at “Pride” events on 19-21 May in Kyiv

The spokesperson of Catherine Ashton, High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice President of the Commission, issued the following statement on 24 May.

"The High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Catherine Ashton, is deeply concerned about the violent disruption of peaceful events organized on 19-21 May as part of “Kyiv Pride”. She expresses her solidarity with the victims of these acts and urges the Ukrainian authorities to investigate them thoroughly and to bring the perpetrators to justice.

The High Representative calls on the Ukrainian authorities to protect and to enforce the rights of all Ukrainians, including lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender persons, to peaceful assembly and to freedom of expression.

The EU Head of Delegation received the organizers of the "Kyiv Pride" to express support and commitment of the High Representative to the protection of human rights of all Ukrainians without discrimination.

The European Union will use the forthcoming bilateral meetings to discuss the issue with the Ukrainian authorities."