US Embassy in Bosnia and Herzegovina fully supports the first Bosnian Pride March, ambassador Eric Nelson said in a video message published on Wednesday, a few days before the event is set to take place in the Bosnian capital.

The ambassador called on citizens to join the peaceful walk on Sunday and to support equal rights for everyone.

“The US Embassy expresses support to the first Pride March in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The goal of the pride parade is equal human rights for all. Me and my partner appreciate the welcome and respect we received here. I will take part in the Pride March to give support to all LGBTI community members and their families,” the US ambassador said, addressing the public in the local language(s).

This is a chance for Bosnia and Herzegovina, Nelson stressed, “to accept its diversities and show tolerance and respect for every individual.”

He expressed hope that the event will pass in a safe and dignified manner.

The Pride March is being organised in Bosnia for the first time and, as the organisers earlier said, it is a protest against inequality and violation of human rights of the LGBTIQ persons. It is also a protest against all those exposed to violence, discrimination and those who are excluded from society.

Announcement of the first Bosnian Pride March earlier this year triggered a broad discussion on whether the event should take place or not.

While the liberal political parties including the ruling Nasa Stranka (Our Party, NS) strongly support it, the conservative Bosniak Party of Democratic Action (SDA) opposed the event.

The organisers also received the strong support of foreign organisations and embassies in the country.

The walk will take place on Sarajevo's central streets, starting from the Eternal Flame memorial at 12 o'clock and will end in front of the State Parliament's building. It will not involve any speeches or other manifestations.