A community talk held as part of the Belgrade Pride programme brought together members of the LGBTI community, civil society representatives, experts and members of the public to discuss the legal recognition of same-sex partnerships in Serbia and possible ways forward. The discussion, “Legal recognition of same-sex partnerships: What ways out of the stalemate?”, organised by Da se Zna, with speakers from Belgrade Pride, Council of Europe and the community, examined the relevant legal framework and standards, as well as the practical implications of the lack of legal recognition for same-sex couples.

The exchange took place against the background of the European Commission against Racism and Intolerance’s (ECRI) Fourth Report on Serbia. ECRI found that the absence of legal recognition for same-sex couples "falls short of providing protection of private and family life” and exposes LGBTI persons to social and financial vulnerability. As a matter of priority, it recommended that the authorities submit a draft law on same-sex partnerships to the National Assembly without undue delay. This is one of two recommendations that ECRI will review in its interim follow-up. The talk was therefore a timely opportunity to take stock of progress and of the steps still needed.

By connecting European standards and recommendations with the experiences and concerns of the LGBTI community, the talk also aimed to encourage wider public dialogue on equality and human rights.

The event was supported by the action “Combating Discrimination and Promoting Diversity in Serbia”, implemented within the joint European Union and Council of Europe programme “Horizontal Facility for the Western Balkans and Türkiye”. The action supports stronger anti-discrimination mechanisms and the protection of the rights of vulnerable groups, in line with Council of Europe standards and recommendations.