■ Ambassador Ric Todd raises the Rainbow Flag at the British Embassy in Warsaw. photo courtesy Foreign & Commonwealth Office

WARSAW, June 6, 2008  –  The British Embassy in Warsaw will fly the rainbow flag alongside the Union Flag this weekend in support of Warsaw Pride 2008.

The Pride March, which marks the end of a week of Equality Days in Warsaw, will pass the Embassy Tomorrow afternoon (June 7).

“The UK remains committed to promoting the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people overseas,” said British Ambassador Ric Todd.

“This small gesture is a symbol of the British Embassy’s commitment to equality and acceptance for all.

“This weekend’s Pride March will be a celebration of diversity in Poland, Europe and beyond.  I particularly hope participants travelling from the UK will enjoy the festivities.”

Last month the Foreign and Commonwealth Office confirmed its commitment to engage with foreign governments about the rights of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people.  It issued an ‘LGBT Toolkit’ to its 261 Embassies, High Commissions and other diplomatic posts.

The kit contains information on the official British policy on gay rights and instructions in how to “provide added value to equality and non-discrimination work”.

It covers a wide range of issues, from decriminalisation, sexual health, reproductive rights and health education to bilateral work with other countries.

The document states that LGBT activists are often targets for persecution and that the FCO should ensure these people are “included among human rights defenders concerning whom the UK will lobby and will engage the support of other governments, especially EU members”.

Last weekend, the British Embassy in Riga, flew the Rainbow Flag to mark Riga Pride and Friendship Days.

SEE ALSO

Warsaw Gay Pride a “Classic, Brimming With Colour, Music and Fun”.  From a special correspondent in Warsaw.  The ‘Gay Pride’ march, known as Parada Rownosci, or Equality Parade, came out in style onto the main streets of Warsaw yesterday, with considerable acceptance by the wider community and demonstrating the vibrant dynamism of the Polish capital which has suffered like no other – and deserves freedom like no other.  (UK Gay News, June 8, 2008)