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Latvian’s only gay pride event this year has been cancelled by the authorities. The gay pride event in the capital Riga was due to take place on Saturday 16 May, which is also International Day Against Homophobia.

Riga city hall last week gave permission for the parade to go ahead, but some city councilors then insisted that the location change from a city-centre park to a hidden riverside site, citing fears over security.

Mozaika, the Latvian gay, lesbian and transgender rights group which had planned the parade, refused to accept the alternative.

“We declined, saying that there are no legal grounds for the change and that we do not give in to political pressure,” said Linda Freimane, head of Mozaika.

Freimane also questioned the suggestion of security concerns, saying police had assured the group that they could “protect the marchers at any location and that there have been no major changes in their evaluation of the situation”.

Amnesty International has also expressed its disappointment at the decision. “This is a disgraceful move by the Riga city council,” said  Nicola Duckworth, director of the Europe and Central Asia programme at the Amnesty International.

“The decision is unlawful under Latvian law and violates the rights of Baltic LGBT people to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.

“The council should immediately reverse its decision and allow the march. Amnesty International fully supports the legal challenge by the organisers.”

700 people had been expected at this year’s Riga gay pride.

Posted in: Campaigns & Politics |