Things aren't looking good for Lithuania. The European nation may face a censure for a trifecta of homophobic inactivity.
The first hit came after the government wouldn't let the EU's "anti-discrimination truck" from parking at a gay-inclusive equality event. Then Vilnius mayor Juozas Imbrasas urged bus drivers to protest buses featuring pro-gay adverts. And, finally, the city refused to permit the International Lesbian and Gay Association's annual European conference.
Now Luxembourg MP Jean Huss has petitioned the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe (CoE) to "engage in dialogue" with the Lithuanian government. Huss also included a few more other requests, including "clarifying to [authorities] that their role goes beyond merely recognizing the existence of such rights, and includes the obligation to take positive actions to safeguard access to freedom of assembly for all persons."
Editor
Japhy Grant Editorial Director
David Hauslaib Publisher
Jossip Initiatives
There is a serious problem in Lithuania concerning attitudes left over from soviet times, when homosexuality was criminalized.
The fact is that many Lithuanians, especially Russians in Lithuania, are homophobic, and many of them have not really even "found themselves" yet. This attitude extends into Russia, and includes Belarus.
Sadly, these three countries are the world leaders in suicide. Coincidence? It's hard enough to be gay in "free" countries like the US, let alone these countries where backwards attitudes are ingrained after several generations.
It would be a good thing if the EU/EC REQUIRED teaching (and learning) acceptance, not just of gay/bisexual issues, but other peoples and cultures as well.
This story wasn't about Lithuania in general, but really about Vilnius, and the city administration. But things aren't so good all over this country.
It's actually a crime to advocate homosexuality as an acceptable, healthy, or inconsequential lifestyle choice here.
Most EU member states are homophobic, don't expect this issue to be resolved anytime soon.