Tag Archives: Ana Brnabic

Serbia Just Appointed A Gay Woman As Prime Minister

Out politician, Ana Brnabic was chosen by the new President Aleksandar Vucic, to be the countries prime minister.

Her approval by parliament will be largely a formality, as his party and its allies hold an overwhelming majority.

Brnabic is not only Serbia’s first openly gay PM, but also the first woman in that post.

Vucic told reporters,

I believe that Brnabic has professional and personal qualities to be prime minister and that along with other ministers she will work on improvement and progress of our Serbia.”

Last year, Brnabic became the first gay cabinet minister when Vučić appointed her to be Minister for Public Administration.

When he chose her for his cabinet in August, Vučić challenged reporters, saying:

If you can tell me something bad about her professional resume, tell me. I’m only interested in what her result will be in the difficult job ahead of her.

She has a great energy and I am looking forward to working with her.”

The bold decision could help break down barriers in the former Yugoslav Balkan country, which has been reticent to advance on LGBT rights.

Homosexuality only became legal nationwide in 1994, and there is still no recognition of same-sex relationships.

Same-sex marriage remains constitutionally prohibited.

Belgrade Pride parade was banned in 2011, 2012 and 2013 by authorities over fears of violence – after violent clashes marred Belgrade Pride celebrations in 2010.

But the event was allowed to return in each of the last three years.

The leader of the Serbian Orthodox Church, Patriarch Irinej, is a strong opponent of LGBT rights.

He claimed “a great majority” are against “shameless” Pride events.