The European Union's High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell, sought to 'highlight the particular challenges faced by lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) persons in many parts of the world.'
These have only been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, as members of the LGBTI community often encounter discrimination and restrictions in their access to healthcare.
Borrell further promised that the EU 'will work with all our partners both inside and outside the EU, joining forces with international organisations, civil society and human rights defenders in defending the human rights of LGBTI persons and in promoting equality and respect for diversity.'
As Luxembourg MEP Marc Angel highlighted, rainbow flags have been flown in EU buildings in various countries in solidarity with the LGBTI community.
Rosa Lëtzebuerg, an LGBI organisation based in the Grand Duchy, explained in a blog post why this day is so important.
To mark the day, the UN LGBTI Core Group, a coalition of 55 states including Luxembourg presented a joint statement highlighting the continuing threats LGBTI people face across the world.
According to the Rainbow Index, Luxembourg ranks third for LGBTI rights worldwide.
