MEPS URGE COMMISSION TO DO MORE TO PROTECT GAY RIGHTS.

• Position: Brief article

A string of recent setbacks for gay rights in Eastern Europe has led the European Parliament to demand a more pro-active response from the EU in fighting homophobia. An EP resolution adopted by 468 votes to 149 on January 18 calls on the European Commission to propose more anti-discrimination legislation and to guarantee EU-wide free movement for same-sex couples. The MEPs demand that same-sex partners be given the same rights as heterosexuals on inheritance, pensions, tax and social security. The EP initiative was launched in response to bans on gay pride marches in Poland, anti-gay remarks made by the new Polish government and moves in Lithuania and Latvia to ban gay marriage. The resolution also urges member states "to finally fully recognise homosexuals as targets and victims of the Nazi regime".

When the issue was debated...