Belgrade EuroPride cancellation faces queer resistance …
(EPOA), is the largest demonstration that vindicates our rights in Europe. It is a celebration that has taken place since 1992 without interruption – except in 2020 due to the pandemic – in multiple cities across Europe.
In 2019, EPOA held its annual assembly in Bilbao (Spain) where it was decided by a majority that EuroPride 2022 would be held in Belgrade (Serbia). This decision meant that EuroPride was going to take place for the first time in the Balkans, where the rights of the LGBTQ+ are under constant threat.
Recently, the President of the Republic of Serbia has cancelled the EuroPride march in the city of Belgrade, scheduled for September 12-18, a decision that has been condemned by the international community and especially by the European Union.
This cancellation has been supported by the Orthodox Church in the country. A few days ago, the leader of the Serbian Orthodox Church, Nikanor, has attacked the LGBTQ+ community, applauding the persecution carried out by Vladumir Putin of LGBTQ+ people and called for LGBTQ+ people to be sentenced to jail.
Reuters has reported that far right and pro-Russian groups, supported by the Orthodox Church have recently rallied in their thousands and called for the cancellation to be enforced. However, LGBTQ+ activists opposed to the conservative government of President Aleksandar Vucic have vowed to march. “We will definitely be going out for a walk no matter what happens,” Filip Vulovic, a member of the EuroPride organisational board, told Reuters.
Those that resist the cancellation will be facing significant danger. Several Pride organisations, such as from Spain for example, have stepped up to the mark and have declared that they will send a delegation to help ensure the safety of those marching in Belgrade.
EuroPride 2023 will be in Malta.
