The LGTBI+ State Federation has raised its voice, denouncing that the new LGTBI+ strategy of the European Union, which covers the period 2026-2023, falls short and, in some aspects, even “takes steps backwards.” This criticism comes at a crucial time, as Europe faces a rising wave of anti-rights discourse and policies in several of its member states.
During the inauguration of the day “40 years of Spain in the EU: From accession to equality in LGTBI+ rights”, Paula Iglesias, president of the State Federation of Lesbians, Gays, Trans, Bisexual, Intersex and more (LGTBI+), emphasized the insufficiency of the European proposal to stop this worrying trend.
Hate Crimes: Incomplete Protection
One of the most critical points of the new strategy, according to the Federation, is its treatment of hate crimes. Although in 2021 the European Commission proposed including them as an EU crime, the current legislative initiative focuses exclusively on hate crimes committed in the digital environment.
Iglesias has defended the urgency of not backing down in the commitment to declare all crimes and hate speech due to LGTBIphobia Eurocrimes. Why is this legal harmonization so important? Only a common legal basis would allow criminal definitions to be unified between States, putting an end to the fragmented and inconsistent legal framework that exists today. Do you think that stronger legislation could be the key to protecting LGTBIQ+ throughout Europe?
Sanctions and Fundamental Rights: Are They Enough?
The president of the Federation has also pointed out the ineffectiveness of economic sanctions in the face of attempts by some European countries to restrict the right to peaceful assembly of LGTBI+ people. The EU, he has claimed, must use all the legal, political and financial tools at its disposal when fundamental rights are violated. The objective is clear: to ensure that the EU is a free and safe space of expression for all.
In this hostile context, the European agenda must prioritize shielding the right to gender self-determination, the protection of trans, non-binary and intersex people, equality for LGTBI+ families, diversity education and the prevention of hate speech.
Freedom of Movement and Non-Discrimination: Pending Challenges
There are also legal gaps in the freedom of movement for LGTBI+ families within the EU. Differences in family law between Member States may mean that family ties are no longer recognized in cross-border situations. For this reason, unanimity is requested to approve a Regulation that guarantees the recognition of filiation in all Member States.
Likewise, the Federation requires unanimous agreement to approve the Directive on equal treatment, which would extend protection against discrimination based on sexual orientation to areas such as education, housing and social protection, beyond employment.
The challenge is not only to maintain the rights already achieved, but to continue moving forward. Equality, diversity and non-discrimination must be the values that guide our international and national scene. We do not need cautious policies, but brave and committed ones, that make it clear that the lives and rights of LGTBIQ+ are not negotiable. Are we really building a Europe where everyone can live in complete freedom and security?
