The Signficance of Pride for Equality in the Balkans

14:00 – 15:30, Arkadija

All Western Balkan nations share many similarities – cultural, linguistic, historical and those regarding the public stance towards the LGBTI+ community. A turbulent history of fighting for equality is a shared narrative for all these countries. Discrimination, hate crimes and hate speech are still prevalent, while many nations still do not have basic legislature regarding the protection of hate crimes, same-sex unions, gender identity etc. This discussion will showcase different stories and perspectives of activists from the Western Balkans, on topics spanning from the history of the LGBTI+ movement in their countries, to the current situation and challenges that LGBTI+ activists face.

Speakers:

• Amina Imamović Sarajevo Open Centre, Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Danijel Kalezić, Member of the Organizing Committee of Montenegro Pride
• Blert Morina, Executive Director, Centre for Equality and Liberty, Kosovo
• Xheni Karaj, Co-founder and Current Executive, Aleanca LGBT, Albania
• Stefan Petrovski, Organizer, Skopje Pride, North Macedonia
• Marko Mihailovic, Director, Belgrade Pride (moderator)