Amsterdam, the Netherlands 06.08.2026 - "Local and regional authorities across Europe must stand firm in protecting the rights of LGBTI people as we are at the forefront of safeguarding democracy and human rights. However, recent democratic backsliding has led to growing restrictions on the freedoms of expression and assembly," stated Congress Rapporteur Helen Belcher (United Kingdom, R, ILDG) while giving a keynote speech at the WorldPride Human Rights Conference in Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
"Until recently, many believed that progress towards equality was irreversible. Today, however, we are witnessing increasing pressure in many parts of Europe. It is therefore more important than ever that local and regional authorities uphold the principles of the European Convention on Human Rights and ensure that everyone can participate openly and safely in public life."
The Rapporteur provided an overview of the forthcoming Congress report on guaranteeing the freedoms of expression and assembly of LGBTI people: "Our report identifies three major challenges: increasing legal restrictions on freedom of expression and assembly, a growing climate of hostility towards LGBTI people, and that civic space is shrinking for LGBTI people. But this decline is neither universal nor inevitable. The report also provides a roadmap for action, calling on subnational authorities to protect the fundamental freedoms of expression and assembly, work closely with LGBTI communities, support civil society and adopt inclusive local policies. Across Europe, municipalities are demonstrating this through dialogue, cultural initiatives and political leadership that can make a real difference. Progress remains possible.
"When our report is adopted, ask your local representatives what they are doing to implement it. Meet them, write to them, lobby them. Speak out whenever you see that your rights are not being respected."
The Congress will hold a debate on the freedom of expression and freedom of assembly of LGBTI people at the 51st Congress Session in October 2026, where the report will be presented for adoption.
