Norway expresses her continued support for – and solidarity with- the LGBT people in Serbia and all over the world.
Unfortunately, all over the world, members of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) community are subject to discrimination, often hidden and with impunity, because of the invisibility of the community members themselves. We reject and condemn any discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation and gender identity.
Guaranteeing human rights of LGBT persons requires an active, consistent, determined policy of the authorities, both at the level of central government and at the level of local government, as well as by other state institutions. We express our wholehearted support to all those who - whether as individuals, working for government organizations or for nongovernmental organizations- are working towards this goal.
We recall the tragic outcome of the Belgrade Pride 2001. Let 10 October 2010 be a day we remember as a celebration of diversity, tolerance and respect for every persons basic human rights.
Celebrating diversity is not about promoting a lifestyle. It is about promoting respect for fundamental human rights as set forth in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. It is about the very essence of our democratic values. It is the core of European values.
We wish all those celebrating the Belgrade Pride under the banner “Let’s walk together” a safe and enjoyable day!
Nils Ragnar Kamsvåg
Ambassador