In new ways and protests, the world came together on Saturday to mark the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia, an annual event aimed at raising visibility and standing together for LGBT equality. One simple but powerful gesture out of Costa Rica gained the most headlines internationally as the country's new president, Luis Guillermo Solis, raised a pride flag above his residence. Here are in photos are a few of the other moments.
Same-sex couples demonstrate on the eve of the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia, a woldwide celebration of sexual and gender diversities, at the Plaza de Armas square in Asuncion on Friday.
Activists release balloons as they take part in a flash mob devoted IDAHOT in St. Petersburg on Saturday.
A couple kisses as they take part in the flash mob in St. Petersburg.
Thousands stand in front of the 'Bourse' square in central Brussels an event on Saturday.
Albanian LGBT activists march while holding the rainbow flag in the main boulevard of Tirana to commemorate the IDAHOT. Only in recent years has the LGBT community in Albania emerged from marginalized and underground activities to hold public events and parades, although not entirely without causing controversy and prejudice in this small Balkan nation which until the collapse of the communist regime in 1990 penalized homosexuality.
Activists participate in a demonstration at the North Beach in Durban on Saturday. The ninth annual event, billed by organizers as the biggest LGBT solidarity event in the world, is aimed at raising awareness about discrimation facing the community and at calling for equal rights.
Transgender women participate in a parade to celebrate the IDAHOT on Sunday in Manila, Philippines. The Philippines enjoys a vibrant LGBT community with pro-gay legislation and local anti-discrimination ordinances in most metro cities.
Celebrating the ninth International Day Against Homophobia And Transphobia in Manila in this photo above and those below.
