EU and Estonia Host Geneva Forum on LGBTQI+ in Armed Forces
Geneva event discusses inclusion of queer soldiers in Ukraine and global armies.
Key points
- The EU and Estonia hosted a side event in Geneva on 17 September.
- Ukrainian and Swiss officers discussed the realities of serving openly.
- A new photo exhibition highlights the experiences of queer soldiers.
On 17 September, the EU and Estonia held a side event in Geneva. The session focused on LGBTQI+ rights in armed forces. It took place during the Human Rights Council's 63rd session. The goal was to discuss inclusion in military service.
Ukraine, France, and the UK co-sponsored the gathering. Experts and individuals with lived experience joined the discussion. They addressed the specific challenges queer people face in conflict. The event highlighted the need for equal treatment in defense sectors.
Formal equality does not guarantee inclusion
EU Ambassador Deike Potzel opened the session. She noted that many armies now allow open service. However, informal barriers often remain in place. Discriminatory attitudes can still shape daily military life. Safety concerns may prevent soldiers from living openly.
Samantha des Forges spoke from the UK Ministry of Defense. She warned that current backlash complicates open living. This trend makes it harder to serve with pride. The UK perspective emphasized the ongoing struggle for equity.
Ukrainian soldiers share personal stories of service
Vadym Pylypenko joined the event via video call. He spoke from the front lines in Ukraine. He is the co-founder of a local LGBT+ military group. His group has grown from grassroots activism. It now acts as a political force. It advocates for greater legal equality and recognition.
Captain Sven Schönauer represents the Swiss Armed Forces. He leads the QueerOfficers Switzerland association. He stressed that all soldiers share the same motivation. They all want to defend their home country. Their identity does not change their duty or resolve.
Photo exhibition brings personal dimension to conflict
The event launched a new photo exhibition. It is titled "Unseen in Life, Visible in Death." The display features queer Ukrainian soldiers. It tells stories of identity and resilience. It also covers experiences of loss during the war.
According to the EEAS, the exhibition adds a personal dimension. It connects human rights to the reality of war. Estonian Ambassador Riia Salsa-Audiffren closed the panel. She stated that equality is not optional. It is essential for free and resilient societies.
