Where inequalities and discrimination persist, democracy cannot thrive. Equality is not optional, it is the bedrock of free and resilient societies. Yet across the world, too many LGBTI persons still face violence, discrimination, hate speech, and stigmatisation and are targeted by disinformation campaigns, simply for being who they are. When the full enjoyment of human rights by LGBTI persons is undermined, participation shrinks, and societies become less inclusive and less democratic. On the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia, the EU reaffirms its strong commitment to uphold the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights by LGBTI persons.