The PES is the only European political party with an affiliated LGBT network – Rainbow Rose – which brings together LGBT groups affiliated to socialist, social democrat and Labour parties across Europe. During the meeting PES President Sergei Stanishev outlined the commitment of the PES to work on LGBT rights and freedoms in Europe, as stated at the last party congress in May.
LGBT people are still facing inequalities in Europe. Bringing full equality, for all minorities, including LGBT, is a priority for the PES. The next three Presidencies of the Council of the European Union will be led by progressive governments. The PES intends to work with them to use their time in the Presidency to move forward key dossiers including the anti-discrimination directive and the ‘List of Actions to advance LGBTI Equality’.
The PES will support Rainbow Rose in their actions in 2016 to promote LGBT rights, particularly in countries where LGBT people are denied those rights.
Rainbow Rose website: http://rainbowrose.eu/