Hundreds of European election candidates pledge to protect LGBTI rights

Amid fears of a rise in the far-right in the European elections this June 6-9, the number of candidates who are demonstrating their support for LGBTI human rights, freedom and democracy is profound

With hundreds of candidates signing on to ILGA-Europe’s the Come Out 4 Europe campaign, showing their commitment to the protection and advancement of LGBTI human rights, this initiative has captured the attention of candidates and voters alike, igniting support for LGBTI rights across the EU. These candidates aren’t just showing support online; they’re making a bold statement about their values and priorities as voters get ready to go to the polls less than two weeks’ time. Each signature represents a promise to fight against discrimination and advocate for the rights of LGBTI communities. 

The pledges against rising intolerance

In an era where authoritarian leaders across Europe are continuously using LGBTI people as targets to divide and mobilise their electorates, the significance of the Come Out 4 Europe campaign cannot be overstated. The annual Rainbow Map, published by ILGA-Europe earlier this month, highlights the urgent need for legal protections to safeguard fundamental rights. As the report illustrates, many countries are stalling in moving legal protections forward, risking the rapid erosion of human rights under newly elected governments influenced by far-right ideologies.

The moment for the European democracy

The Come Out 4 Europe campaign marks a pivotal moment in European politics. Politicians are no longer treating LGBTI rights as a mere afterthought or a convenient scapegoat. Instead, they’re embracing these rights as a fundamental pillar of democracy and equality. It’s a remarkable shift in mindset that speaks volumes about the progress we’ve made, and what lies ahead.

The significance of the Come Out 4 Europe campaign extends far beyond mere symbolism. Each signature represents a tangible commitment to action—a promise to fight against discrimination and champion the rights of LGBTI people. It’s a bold statement that sends a clear message to voters: when you cast your ballot, you’re not just choosing a candidate—you’re choosing a vision for the future of Europe.

The bigger picture

In the broader context, the outcome of EU elections next month will shape the trajectory of Europe for years to come. Will we go down the path of division and exclusion? Or will we choose the one built on the principles of equality, inclusion, and respect for all? Let’s remember the power that lies in our hands if we decide not to sit on the sidelines.

You’ve got the power!

As we approach the final days before the elections, we ask every single person who reads this blog to take action. You can impact your community, you can influence the number of people who will vote by spreading the word, and you can affect the outcome of European Elections by using your vote for a candidate who supports freedom, democracy and equality! Use the Come Out 4 Europe website to see which candidates deserve your vote, and share the campaign with others. Because of it, we can make better choices for ourselves. Let’s seize this moment to make history and set sail for a Europe that truly lives up to its promise of freedom and equality for all.

Visit comeout.eu now and make your plan for voting day!