Nicosia, Cyprus. Diplomatic missions and European institutions in Cyprus issued a joint statement on Friday warning of what they described as a global rollback of LGBT rights. They also urged Cyprus to advance a national equality strategy during its EU council presidency.
Joint statement ahead of International Day Against Homophobia
The statement was released by the Cyprus chapter of Diplomats for Equality ahead of the International Day Against Homophobia and was signed by 26 diplomatic missions and European institutions based in Cyprus.
Concerns over restrictions targeting LGBT communities
The signatories said they were concerned by increasing restrictions targeting LGBT communities in several countries, including attempts to limit freedom of expression, restrict inclusive education and constrain the activities of civil society organisations.
Reference to Pride marches and reported obstacles
“Pride marches remain essential platforms for dialogue, solidarity and the affirmation of universal human rights,” the statement said, while also referring to bans and obstacles affecting such events internationally.
Cyprus’ UNHRC membership and EU council presidency
The missions welcomed Cyprus’ membership of the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) and referred to the country’s current EU council presidency as an opportunity to demonstrate continued commitment to equality and inclusion.
Call for adoption of a national LGBT strategy
The statement called for “the adoption of a national LGBT strategy”, which it said is currently in its final stages.
Support for LGBT organisations and workplace initiatives
Diplomats praised the work carried out by LGBT organisations operating in Cyprus, including Accept – LGBTI Cyprus, Queer Cyprus Association, Rainbow Families Cyprus, Queer Wave and Queer Collective, as well as university LGBTQ+ groups and members of the Cypriot LGBTQ+ diaspora.
The diplomatic missions also encouraged employers to introduce equality-based workplace policies and diversity training programmes.
Planned participation in Cyprus Pride Month 2026 marches
According to the statement, members of the Diplomats for Equality network will participate in marches in Nicosia on Sunday and June 6 as part of Cyprus Pride Month 2026 activities.
Signatories
Among the signatories were the Australian British and Canadian High Commissions in Cyprus, as well as the embassies of France, Greece, Ireland, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland.
What steps would you like Cyprus to prioritise in adopting a national LGBT strategy?
