Every year on May 17, the international community marks the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Transphobia (IDAHOBIT+) — a day of solidarity with LGBTIQ+ people and a reminder of the need for collective action to overcome all forms of intolerance, discrimination, hate speech and violence.

Ukraine, as a law-based, democratic and European state, reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the protection of human dignity, equality, freedom, non-discrimination, diversity, inclusivity and human rights for all.

At a time when Ukraine is resisting the full-scale aggression of the Russian Federation, the protection of human rights and freedoms is not only a domestic obligation of the state, but also an integral part of our struggle for a democratic future. Ukrainians, including those who belong to the LGBTIQ+ community — among them military personnel, volunteers, activists, employees of state institutions and representatives of civil society — are making a significant contribution to the defense of Ukraine's sovereignty, strengthening its resilience and affirming the European choice of our state.

Ukraine consistently stands against any manifestations of discrimination, violence, persecution or social exclusion. Our efforts must continue to be focused on combating hate crimes, hate speech, persecution and discrimination.

Ukraine endorses the approaches set out in the joint ministerial declaration issued on the occasion of the IDAHOT+ 2026 European Forum in Copenhagen, which reaffirms that equality and non-discrimination are the cornerstones of democratic societies and integral elements of a rules-based international order. Ukraine joins the call to continue joint efforts to protect the safety, well-being, freedom and equal opportunities of LGBTIQ+ people in Europe and around the world.

At the national level, Ukraine continues to strengthen the legal and institutional framework for the protection of human rights in accordance with the Constitution of Ukraine, the National Human Rights Strategy, the country’s international obligations and its European integration agenda. Further steps remain important to improve legislation on combating discrimination, preventing hate crimes, ensuring equal access to education, employment and healthcare, and protecting civil society.

On this day, Ukraine reaffirms that our struggle against Russian aggression is, at the same time, a struggle for a society founded on freedom, dignity, equality and respect for every individual. It is these values that distinguish the democratic world from authoritarianism, intolerance and violence.