These laws violate human rights. First, they discriminate against LGBT individuals and organisations. Second, they undermine everyone’s right to freedom of expression, which includes the right to seek, receive and impart information, opinions and ideas. The “homosexual propaganda” bans are not limited to LGBT pride parades and demonstrations. They will impact a wide range of daily activities, including public health messages, cultural events such as film festivals and book fairs, media reporting on national and international issues, education on sexual and reproductive health, and even commercial advertising. They are official statements of discrimination and legitimise homophobia and transphobia at every level.

The ICJ and ILGA-Europe call on parliamentarians and leaders at the national level to condemn such laws and, where they have been enacted, work for their repeal. Council of Europe and European Union institutions should raise the laws and proposals in discussions with member states. The human rights mechanisms of the United Nations, including the treaty bodies and special procedure mandate holders, should address these laws in their evaluation of state obligations and should send appeals to governments.