LGBTIQ+ equality: Ensuring fundamental rights is key to social cohesion and strong democracy

Local and regional leaders urge for protection against discrimination, harmful conversion practices and hate speech.

Regions and cities called for stronger action to protect LGBTIQ+ people from discrimination and stated that ensuring equal rights and equal opportunities is essential for Europe's democratic resilience, economic prosperity and social cohesion at a debate at the plenary session of the European Committee of the Regions (CoR) on 2 July.

In the opinion by Susanne Wahlström (SE/EPP), member of Habo Municipal Council, local and regional leaders welcomed the European Commission's 'Union of Equality: LGBTIQ+ Equality Strategy 2026-2030' and recognised the progress made in advancing LGBTIQ+ rights across the EU. However, they expressed concerns over the backsliding observed in some Member States and called for stronger, coordinated action across all levels of governance to safeguard the rights of LGBTIQ+ people.

CoR members stressed that ensuring equal treatment and human rights for all is not only a fundamental rights' issue but also a key driver for Europe's social cohesion, economic resilience and democratic stability. They underlined that inclusive communities attract talent, foster innovation and economic growth, while discrimination and exclusion weaken public trust and erode democratic values and hamper economic growth.

The opinion highlights the need for decisive action to stop harmful conversion practices and any forced medical interventions for intersex and trans people. CoR members, therefore, called on regional authorities (LRAs) to allocate funding to eradicate such practices and safeguard the sexual and reproductive rights of LGBTIQ+ people.

Local and regional leaders warned of the increasing risks of digital violence and artificial intelligence in particular to young LGBTIQ+ people, resulting in exclusion, fear and risks to mental health. They called for digital literacy education in schools and more support for organisations that support LGBTIQ+ youths and help recognise, report and respond to online and offline abuse and misinformation.

Regions and cities also urged Member States to provide clear and accessible information on the cross-border rights for LGBTIQ+ people and their families, and to ensure that public administrations have adequate information on free movement across the EU.

CoR members underscored that combating inequality across the EU is a shared responsibility that requires action at all levels of governance and called for closer cooperation between EU institutions, national governments, local and regional authorities and civil society. They stressed that LRAs must be properly equipped to translate the forthcoming strategy objectives into tangible action.

Quote:

Rapporteur Susanne Wahlström (SE/EPP), Member of Habo Municipal Council: "An equal Europe is a Europe where we can all live openly and safely. Every person should have the freedom to live their life without fear of discrimination or oppression. Equality and openness strengthen social communities, the power of innovation and economic development."

Background information:

• Photos and videos from the Plenary Session.
• Follow the Press service account on X.
• The European Commission presented the Union of Equality: LGBTIQ+ Equality Strategy 2026-2030 in October 2025, setting out a new framework for advancing equality and combating discrimination across the EU.

Contact:

Ângela Machado

Tel: +32475413158

[email protected]