The 14th Montenegro Pride was held in Podgorica, with organisers calling for LGBTIQ+ people to be able to live openly and without fear, while state institutions called for more consistent protection against discrimination.
The march, held under the slogan “We will live, for the sake of life”, was organised by Queer Montenegro. Participants gathered outside the Government building before marching through the centre of Podgorica to Argentina Square.
Queer Montenegro Executive Director Staša Baštrica told those gathered that Pride exists so that people can “finally live as themselves and live their lives” without hiding who they are or whom they love.
She said that the fight for equality cannot be separated from other challenges facing Montenegrin society.
Baštrica said the wars following the break-up of Yugoslavia, the transition, poverty, and long-standing social divisions had left consequences that remain visible today, but that even in such circumstances, a part of society had stood for peace, freedom, and unity.
She also criticised political structures, noting that some court rulings were being called into question, while laws she considers important for citizens were being delayed or blocked. She also assessed that political interests and party-based employment were slowing social progress.
“The real enemies are not gay, lesbian, bisexual and trans people,” Baštrica said, stressing that the fight for equality and acceptance of diversity does not pose a threat to society.
The Ministry of Human and Minority Rights said that protecting the human rights of all citizens, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, remains one of its priorities.
Copyright: Evropska kuća
The Ministry said freedom of assembly and expression, as well as the right to live free from discrimination and violence, are fundamental values of a democratic society, and that holding Pride indicates the acceptance of diversity.
The Ministry also pointed out, however, that improving the legal framework must be accompanied by effective enforcement of the law and an ongoing fight against homophobia, transphobia and hate speech.
Support was also expressed by the Clinical Centre of Montenegro, which said that discrimination and stigmatisation of LGBTIQ+ people are not only human rights issues, but can also have consequences for physical and mental health.
The Clinical Centre of Montenegro said that the healthcare system must provide every patient with a safe and dignified environment and equal access to healthcare, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.
The gathering passed without incident.
Text adapted from N1.