On the occasion of the International Day against Homophobia and Transphobia (IDAHOT), Pier Antonio Panzeri (S&D, IT), Chair of the Subcommittee on Human Rights stated:
"Today is a day of pride for anyone who believes in human dignity and equality.
Unfortunately, in many places around the world, to expose one's homosexual orientation is not only risky from a social point of view. It is not a question of reputation, but a question of life. Let's never forget that today more than 72 countries worldwide still criminalize homosexuality with at least five applying the death penalty. This is unacceptable..."