The Cyprus chapter of Diplomats for Equality, a group representing 26 diplomatic missions, has joined forces to celebrate Pride Month and mark International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Interphobia, and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT).
In a statement on May 17, the group acknowledged the positive steps taken by the Cypriot government, including the ban on conversion therapy. However, they also highlighted areas for further progress.
“We welcome the government’s adoption of legislation criminalizing conversion therapies, a positive step to end practices which inflict considerable harm on LGBTQI+ persons. We encourage it to consider introducing an amendment to remove the legislative exclusion of same-sex couples in civil union from adoption,” the group said.
It further urged the government to push for progress on the legal gender identity recognition bill and recognise same-sex marriages conducted abroad.
Civil society, business (community
The diplomats commended LGBTQI+ civil society groups in Cyprus for their work promoting awareness, advocacy, and education.
The statement made special mention to Accept – LGBTI Cyprus and Queer Cyprus Association “for their decade-long partnership, culminating in their recent achievement of winning the European Citizen’s Prize for 2023, as a recognition for their collaborative efforts in organising the Annual Cyprus Pride Festival.”
The press release also called on the business community to support LGBTQI+ employees and ensure they are treated based on skills and merit alone. (in cyprus)
