Conservatives fail on anti-homophobia and ageism laws
4 May 2008
The European Union has abandoned plans for a far-reaching anti-discrimination directive that would have outlawed homophobia and ageism and guaranteed freedom of religion.
Fearing a revolt from conservative countries, European Commissioners have backtracked on earlier proposals.
They have decided to narrow the focus of proposed anti-discrimination legislation to only protect disabled people.
Racial and sexual discrimination are already outlawed.
South-East England's Green Party MEP Caroline Lucas (pictured left) condemned the move.
She said: “Frankly, I'm appalled: not just that millions of LGBT and older people around Europe will continue to suffer from state-sanctioned persecution.
"But the British Government has failed to stand up for them."
“It's no surprise that the right-wing governments of several EU countries are opposed to guaranteeing the human rights of their citizens when it comes to their sexuality and religious beliefs.
"However that the supposedly 'liberal' democracies such as the UK chose not to put up a effective fight over this is unforgivable.”
Dr Lucas has backed calls from Green Party colleagues on the European Parliament's Human Rights and Social Affairs Committee for a review of the decision.
If necessary, she will push for a completely new anti-discrimination directivethat truly guarantees the human rights of all EU citizens.
Notes to editors:
Media: for more information please contact Ben Duncan on 07973 823358.[ENDS]
