BRUSSELS, December 1, 2011 – The European Parliament gave the ‘green light’ to the accession of Croatia to the European Union – but with several caveats including one on gay, lesbian and transgender rights.

Among the caveats, the text of the resolution calls on Croatia to combat homophobia and prevent homophobic violence. The Parliament’s call follows this year’s Pride march in Split, which was subject to violent attacks.

Additionally, the Parliament “urges the Croatian authorities fully to investigate and prosecute the crimes committed and to develop strategies for preventing similar incidents in the future”, and “calls on the Croatian authorities quickly to adopt and implement an action plan against homophobia”. “Croatia will be welcome in the European Union in 2013, but until then – and once it has become a Member State – it will need to pay close attention to the rights of minorities,” said Marije Cornelissen, a Dutch MEP and a member of the Intergroup.

While acknowledging Croatia’s preparedness for accession, MEPs invited Zagreb to tackle remaining challenges, especially concerning judicial reform and the fight against corruption and organised crime.

They urge Croatia to step up its efforts to prosecute war crimes, comply with all International Criminal Tribunal recommendations for the former Yugoslavia and encourage the return of war refugees, especially Serbs.

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Labels: Croatia, EU, Gay Rights