"According to the European Court of Human Rights, the principle of
non-discrimination is "fundamental" and underpins the Convention along
with the rule of law and the values of tolerance and peace. Lesbian,
gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) persons are still
subject to homophobia, transphobia and other forms of intolerance and
discrimination on the basis of their sexual orientation or gender
identity. For this reason, States must take action to ensure the full
enjoyment of the human rights of these persons.
This factsheet outlines a number of examples of general and, where
appropriate, individual measures adopted and reported by States in the
context of the implementation of the judgments of the European Court to
safeguard and protect the rights of LGBTI persons including:
decriminalisation of same-sex relationships, combating hate crimes,
freedom of assembly and freedom of expression, legal recognition of
gender identity, access of LGBTI persons to social rights, homosexual
persons in the armed forces, same-sex couples and civil union laws,
right of residence and private and family life, right to adoption,
parental authority and custody of children, maintenance and succession
of tenancy agreements."
