By decision of the Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, a committee is established to draft a National Strategy for Equality of LGBTQ+. The Commission’s objective will be to develop a comprehensive plan that sets out, across the board, the strategy, objectives, and actions of ministries and relevant agencies for the planning, development, and implementation of policies on equality for LGBTQI+ individuals, primarily for the period 2021–2023.

«We are all working toward a modern and just Greece, and such a country cannot be one that excludes or divides its citizens. That is why LGBTQI+ individuals must find an equal place in the economic, political, and social life of our country. »It is their individual right, but it is also the state’s obligation, and I believe it is a mature step forward for the benefit of the nation as a whole,” said Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis during his meeting with the former President of the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) and professor of Public International Law at the Athens Law School, Linos Alexandros Sisilianos, who is appointed Chair of the Committee.

«Issues related to combating discrimination against LGBTQ These issues have repeatedly been addressed by both the European Court of Justice and the Council of Europe’s Commission against Racism and Intolerance. »It is now time for us to adopt a national strategy that responds to international developments,” Mr. Sisilianos noted.

There are many reasons why a strategic approach to LGBTQI+ issues is necessary. First, many of the issues faced by LGBTQI+ individuals are structural in nature, and resolving them requires a comprehensive government-wide approach. Second, challenges persist in many areas and require cross-sectoral actions and policies. A recent study by KMOOP (Center for Social Action and Innovation), as part of the implementation of the European FAROS project, showed that one in three LGBTQI+ individuals has been subjected to insults or abuse because of their sexual orientation or/and/or gender expression or identity from public sector professionals at least once.

While two out of three (63%) believe they do not have equal access to public services compared to people who do not identify as LGBTQI+. Third, a national strategy provides a framework for identifying issues that still need to be addressed. It also provides a structure through which the government, public services, employer and employee representatives, and civil society can collaborate to find solutions. Fourth, through a strategic approach, data can be collected to track the problems faced by LGBTQI+ individuals, so that existing services can be reviewed and adapted to make them more effective and inclusive. Fifth, it should be investigated what additional legislative measures or amendments to existing laws are necessary to achieve full equality for LGBTQI+ individuals.

The National Strategy is part of the government’s broader vision for a safe, fair, and inclusive Greece where all individuals are encouraged to live the life they desire, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or gender characteristics. The goal is inclusion, the protection of rights, to improve the quality of life and well-being of LGBTQI+ individuals so that they can participate fully and equally in the social, economic, cultural, and political life of our country.

The Committee also includes the following members:

From the academic community:

Katerina Fountedaki, Professor of Civil Law at the Law School of Aristotle University of Thessaloniki
Lina Papadopoulou, Associate Professor of Constitutional Law at the Law School of Aristotle University of Thessaloniki

From civil society:

Marina Galanou, President of the Transgender Support Association (SYD)
Apostolos Karabairis, Spokesperson for Thessaloniki Pride – Thessaloniki Pride Festival
Stella Belia, President of the “Rainbow” Families Association”

From the Government: