#EP2014: Why does this election matter for LGBTI rights?

Starting today, the 8th direct election to the European Parliament will determine the EU’s action over the next five years, including in the field of fundamental rights for LGBTI people.

In the period 2014-2019, the European Parliament will play a central role in shaping EU policy against discrimination; on hate speech and hate crime; on free movement; on the rights of transgender individuals; health; and LGBTI issues in the EU’s foreign policy.

Find out why this election matters for the fundamental rights of LGBTI people.

1. Decisive EU action against discrimination

The next Parliament should urge the Commission to put forward an LGBT roadmap, and press the Council to finally adopt the anti-discrimination directive.

2. Common EU rules against hate speech and crime

The EU should combat hate speech and crime based on sexual orientation or gender identity more than it currently does.

3. Free movement for LGBTI individuals and their families

It is time for the EU to enable the mutual recognition of the effects of civil status documents in the EU.

4. Secure transgender rights

Transgender people still face a number of problems in their daily lives, to do with health, access to employment, or in their dealings with justice systems.

5. Tackle discrimination in access to health

Accessing healthcare has become increasingly difficult for certain groups, including LGBTI people. The EU should increase its actions in this important field.

6. Promote the rights of LGBTI people abroad

The EU must continue promoting the full enjoyment of all human rights for LGBTI people in the world, as it has done over the last years.

Read more:

• View how political groups voted between 2009 and 2014 on important policies affecting LGBTI people

Tags: #LGBTvotesfreedom of movementhate crimehate speechLGBT familiesLGBTI guidelinesnon-discriminationroadmaptransgender

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