VALLETTA, 15 May 2025 – Malta proudly hosted this year’s edition of the European IDAHOT+ Forum, one of Europe’s most prominent platforms dedicated to advancing LGBTIQ+ rights, equality and inclusion. This year’s edition, “Advancing SOGIGESC Equality and Inclusion in a Transforming Europe,” brought together government officials, civil society leaders and human rights advocates. The Forum aimed to address the rising threats of discrimination and violence faced by LGBTIQ+ individuals.
In his speech, Prime Minister Robert Abela reflected on Malta’s progress in promoting equality over the past decade. He reaffirmed the country’s commitment to ensuring that everyone has the freedom to live authentically and love without constraints. “We have made significant strides forward,” he stated, conveying that “being yourself is not a crime.”
The Maltese Parliamentary Secretary for Equality and Reforms, Rebecca Buttigieg, underscored Malta’s leadership in this domain. She noted that the strong presence of government representatives at this Forum demonstrates a united stand with the LGBTIQ+ community. Buttigieg pointed out Malta’s consistent top ranking in ILGA-Europe’s Equality Index for ten consecutive years, highlighting sustained political will and dedication to civil rights.
Furthermore, it featured keynote addresses Mr Michael O’Flaherty, Commissioner for Human Rights and Madam Justice Lorraine Schembri Orland. Mr Alain Berset, Secretary General of the Council of Europe, Mr Volker Türk United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, and Ms Hadja Lahbib, European Union Commissioner for Equality addressed the Conference virtually.
The Forum was not just a gathering; it served as a strong reminder of our journey towards lasting equality. We must continue to push ahead, acknowledge the strides we’ve taken, and set our sights on even greater accomplishments. The Parliamentary Secretary expressed concerns over the erosion of human rights in certain countries and urged a renewed commitment to safeguarding the hard-won freedoms that have been recognised over time.
The conference called for stronger collaboration and shared accountability. The Forum encouraged countries to take tangible steps to ensure that equality is upheld in legislation and realised in the everyday lives of all citizens. Malta reaffirms its commitment to promoting human rights and fostering a Europe where equality is pursued and achieved.
The Forum was followed by meetings of the Committee of Experts on Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity and Expression and Sex Characteristics.
