All across Europe, LGBTIQ individuals suffer from discrimination which affects their educational performance, job prospects, well-being and even the exercise of their fundamental rights, such as the freedom of movement within the EU.

To tackle this situation, the European Economic and Social Committee proposes in an opinion adopted at its April plenary session a non-discriminatory regulation of the notion of "family" at EU level.

The opinion welcomes the LGBTIQ Equality Strategy 2020-2025, adopted by the European Commission, which aims to reduce discrimination and ensure the safety and fundamental rights of LGTBI people in the EU through the adoption of legislative measures at European level.

The rapporteur of the opinion, Ionut Sibian, outlined the timeliness of the strategy and welcomed the courage of the European Commission in adopting this strategy "in a context in which homophobia and transphobia are on the rise at European level".

The adopted text calls for a definition of the notion of "family" recognised by all EU Member States to guarantee that the rights of so-called "rainbow families" are respected all across the EU, especially in cross-border situations. The EESC also urges the European Union to establish lines of action on active employment policies with the aim that Member States develop national employment plans that include specific measures for LGBTIQ people, and calls for the prohibition by all Member States of so-called "conversion" practices and therapies. (dgf)