Europe Rainbow Map and Index ranks Montenegro 16th out of 49 countries in respecting LGBT rights

La Valletta, Malta (15 May 2014) – Montenegro’s Minister without Portfolio Marija Vučinović and Prime Minister’s Advisor and National Coordinator for the Implementation of LGBT Strategy Jovan Kojičić attended the International IDAHO Forum 2014, which takes place in Malta on 12 - 15 May.

According to Rainbow Europe Map and Index, issued by the Forum and related to the degree of respects for LGBT rights, Montenegro is ranked 16th out of 49 countries. Index of Montenegro is 47%, which is 1% higher than the average index of the EU member states and 11% higher than the average index in Europe.

Prime Minister of Malta Joseph Muscat and Dutch Minister and President of the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association (ILGA) commended Montenegro for its progress made towards improving respect for LGBT rights. Montenegro is a champion when it comes to the improvement of respect for  rights of LGBT population and it serves as a good example of how to conduct and develop policies in this area, the officials underlined.

Minister Vučinović stressed the significant role of the Government of Montenegro in promoting human rights and fighting against discrimination. She also thanked Montenegro’s partners and international community for their support provided in this area, which resulted in Montenegro’s leadership role in promoting human rights.

Although the Government has adopted strategic documents and action plans, and advanced the legislative framework, it has to work continuously on the fight against homophobia and transphobia, Minister Vučinović emphasised. Montenegro will fight against prejudice and stereotypes by using arguments and facts, and the Government will continue to conduct the policy which will leave no room for discrimination, particularly referring to the sexual orientation of people, Minister Vučinović pointed out.

Having in mind its significant progress, strong international affirmation and concrete results achieved in this important area, Montenegro was unanimously supported to be the host of the next IDAHO Forum which will be held in May 2015.