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Ukraine: Kyiv Pride cancelled after authorities refuse to police event

Jul 05 2014
Written by Nick Duffy

Illustrated rainbow pride flag on a white background.

A Pride event in Ukraine has been cancelled at the last minute, after authorities said they would not guarantee protection to those taking part.

The first ever Pride in Kyiv took place last year, attracting more than a hundred participants, despite efforts by a “very small” number of people to disrupt the event.

However, this year’s Pride – which was due to take place today – has been cancelled after authorities told the organizing committee they could not protect participants from homophobic violence.

The Mayor of Kyiv, Vitali Klichko, claimed that this was not the time for “entertainment events” in Ukraine, following unrest in the country.

John Dalhuisen of Amnesty International said: “The importance of the right to freedom of assembly was dramatically evidenced in the EuroMaydan protests.

“It’s hugely disappointing that only five months later, the peaceful enjoyment of this right is being selectively denied by the very authorities who profited from it.

“Only last week in a meeting with the Ministry of Internal Affairs we were assured that the event would be properly policed.

“They must ensure, without fail, that next year’s march is adequately policed to ensure the protection of all those wishing to take part.”