Thank you Mr. Vice-President. 

The Kingdom of the Netherlands reiterates its full support to the mandate and align ourselves with the EU statement. We warmly welcome the excellent report on how freedom of expression, peaceful assembly and association relate to the protection from violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

The report underlines what we see happening in countries across the globe. Namely, state and other stakeholders actors seek to constrain freedom of expression and peaceful assembly and association, often directly targeting LGBTIQ+ persons through discriminatory and hostile legislation. 

We are deeply concerned about the spreading of such legislations and we will continue to support those organisations advocating against it, together with the broad coalition of states that supports equality for all.

Mr. Reid,

We have seen a rise in discrimination and harmful rhetoric towards LGBTIQ+ persons, both online and offline, often initiated by states and other groups. How would you advise UN member states to combat these trends, while upholding the right of freedom of expression and assembly? 

I thank you.