LGBT groups are not going to have a public gathering on May 17 on the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia. In this connection, an independent group of gay rights activists issued a statement.

They say that the authorities failed to provide safe assembly guarantee on Rustaveli Avenue, which is why the decision was taken to cancel the gathering.

As their official statement says, on May 17 the sanctity of the family-related events are planned in the area. LGBT groups have refused the government"s offer of an alternative venue and date.