Today, 17 May, marks the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia. According to Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna, the day serves as a reminder that although Estonia has
made significant progress in advancing the rights of sexual minorities in recent years — including the introduction of marriage equality in 2023 — continued attention must be paid to the complete eradication of exclusion and violence. This is especially important at a time when discrimination against sexual minorities is on the rise globally.
“Inclusion of all people, regardless of their gender, age, culture, race, sexual orientation or religious beliefs, is the foundation of a democratic society,” Tsahkna stressed. “Sexual minorities are full and equal members of society. Any persecution, exclusion or violence on the basis of a person’s gender identity or sexual orientation is unacceptable.”
The foreign minister added that promoting the rights of the LGBTQI+ community remains an important part of Estonia’s human rights policy. “That is precisely why rainbow flags have been raised today at Estonia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and at our diplomatic missions abroad — to remind us that the right to love must be guaranteed to everyone, both at home and abroad.”
In April this year, Estonia officially launched its first action plan for promoting equal opportunities for LGBTIQ people, focusing on ensuring equal opportunities for sexual minorities, particularly in the fields of education, healthcare and justice. Estonia will serve as a member of the UN Human Rights Council for the period 2026–2028, giving us an opportunity to advocate for gender equality at the international level as well.
Estonia has been a founding member of the Equal Rights Coalition, which focuses on protecting the rights of LGBTQI+ persons, since 2016. The coalition comprises 45 member states and is currently co-chaired by Spain and Colombia. Since 2024, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has also been a member of the Diversity Charter employers’ network.
This year, Baltic Pride will once again take place in Tallinn. The official march will begin on 6 June at 1 p.m. near the Viru Gates, followed by a concert at 2 p.m. in Telliskivi Creative City. More information.
Additional information
Communication Department
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