Federation of Young European Greens

After the banning of the Pride March in Belgrade, that was supposed to take place on the 2nd October 2011, FYEG and Zelena Omladina (Serbian Green Youth) express their deepest solidarity with the organisers of the event and the LGBTQ population in general in their fight for a more inclusive and open society. Human Rights are a basic element of a fair and democratic society which includes the basic right to demonstrate and hold Pride Marches. These forms of civil protest give a voice to the fight against sexual discrimination. When meeting all legal and legitimate norms, their organisation shall not be questioned or restricted at any time. Bringing into question the implementation of such an event is unacceptable and against the law.

Marina Pejovic, Spokesperson of Zelena Omladina, comments on the cancellation: "We urge all institutions, person or organisations to call for support to Pride Marches and solidarity, respect and openness. Institutions that are responsible for security and safety must not misuse their power in order to restrict the basic right for free speech of all people in society. "

Terry Reintke, Spokesperson of FYEG, adds: "We are hoping for a peaceful and colourful Pride March in Belgrade next year when we ourselves will be supporting the LGTBQ struggles in the region in a big project with several activities. Furthermore, we are calling people from all over Europe to join and support the fight for an inclusive, open and democratic society with a strong respect for Human Rights."

For further questions, please contact marina.pejovic@zelenaomladina.org or terry@fyeg.org