But even as Flanders and Brussels are the center of my world, they are not the end of it. For several years now, the Flemish Government has been pursuing an Equal Opportunities Policy for LGBTs while simultaneously looking beyond the Flemish borders. The European growth process presents a significant challenge when it comes to LGBT equality, since this expansion process must be accompanied by social openness and acceptance of LGBTs. For this reason, it is important that progressive forces join hands in order to spread social openness towards LGBTs far beyond the national borders. With this aim in mind I took several initiatives: I took the opportunity of the Belgian Presidency of the European Union in 2010 to place LGBT rights more prominently on the European agenda by organizing an international conference, I supported the former Human Rights Commissioner of the Council of Europe in mapping the social and legal situation of LGBTs in the 47 member states, and I was one of the driving forces behind the ‘Call for a comprehensive policy across the European Union on LGBT issues’ that will be signed by myself and 10 other ministers on the occasion of IDAHO at The Hague. We can only be happy when LGB rights –and T rights! – are human rights, and treated as such, all over the world. As this situation is still in many ways a distant dream, we need platforms where we can discuss and decide together how we can go forward. Platforms where civil society organizations from all over the world (potentially with sympathetic policy makers and academics) join forces in order to create a better society. This is why I am happy that the WorldOutgames are not only about sports, but traditionally hosts a Human Rights Conference. As the Flemish Minister of Equal Opportunities I am glad to support this specific initiative. Equal Opportunities in Flanders, in Europe, in the world - for everyone, irrespective of their sexual or gender identity. Every small step that contributes to reaching that aim, is a big step for humankind.
Gay&Night-ZiZo Juli 2013
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