EU must stand up to homophobic and racist violence urges London Green MEP

29 June 2010 15:37

On the occasion of a European Parliament resolution against racism and homophobia, adopted 15 June 2006, London's Green MEP Jean Lambert commented:

"The recent rise of homophobic and racist sentiments and violence in Europe is disturbing and demonstrates how far we still have to go to establish equality of respect in the EU.

"Politicians have a crucial role in developing a climate in which this kind of intolerance and violence is rejected outright and, as such, I welcome today's resolution and was proud to vote for it.

"The EU must face up to its own prejudices. Member States that flout fundamental rights should be named and blamed. Politicians who seek to stoke homophobic or racial hatred are gravely irresponsible and should have no place in EU politics.

"However, we must also confront the media and institutions when they promote these prejudices. This positive vote today is part of that process."

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