STAMPING OUT HOMOPHOBIA SHOULD START IN ALL EU SCHOOLS

Fiona Hall MEP <info@fionahall.org.uk>

STAMPING OUT HOMOPHOBIA SHOULD START IN ALL EU SCHOOLS - HALL

April 23, 2007 12:00 AM

Commenting after a debate on homophobia in Europe, in the European Parliament today, North East MEP Fiona Hall said:

"Homophobia is still rife in Europe, and across the world. Many lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people still suffer frequent attacks.

"The majority of MEPs are very alarmed at the discriminatory actions and statements of the Polish authorities in particular, which include a ban on Gay Pride marches and attempts to prohibit discussions on homosexuality in educational institutions.

"What is more, certain MEPs attempted to stop a debate on homophobia taking place in the European Parliament yesterday."

Liberal Democrats in the UK have been leading the campaign against homophobic bullying in schools, calling for the introduction of concrete measures to support and protect victims. In the European Parliament Fiona Hall and others signed a written declaration that calls for member state governments to fight homophobia in education, to support LGBT youth groups and to organise networks to share best practise on combating homophobia in schools.

The European Parliament voted in favour of a resolution on homophobia.