Following recent events in Moscow, London’s Green Euro MP Jean Lambert, has called on the Latvian authorities to protect participants of the London twinned, Gay Pride march taking place in Riga this weekend.

Although the 2007 demonstration has been declared legal, the last two consecutive years have been met with violent attacks leading to fears of repeated hostility.  With large numbers of supporters heading from London to Riga to express solidarity with the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) community, Jean Lambert has said it is vital that the Latvian authorities ensure the march goes ahead in peace.

Jean, who is a member of the European Parliament’s Intergroup on Gay and Lesbian rights and has been awarded for her work on Justice and Human Rights today gave her support and said; “Latvian LGBT communities continue to face hostility and discrimination which has been reflected in Givernment policy at times.  The Pride march plays an important role in reinforcing the European proclaimed pricipal of equality and freedom from discrimination and give Latvia an opportunity to re-assert its commitment to these values.

“Human rights must be upheld and valued by the Latvian Government, as part of everyday life and in 2007, the European Year of Equal Opportunities, they must reflect the legal status of the demonstration and protect those exercising their right to a peaceful protest.”

ENDS