LGBTQ supporters march in central Kyiv

Thousands of people gathered in the Ukrainian capital Kyiv on Sunday to take part in the annual Pride march in support of the country's LGBTQ community.

Around 7,000 people wearing colourful outfits and waving rainbow flags marched down the streets, some carrying banners reading "Straight Against Hate".

Participants put forward eight demands to Ukrainian authorities, including the legalization of civil partnerships for LGBT people and further laws against LGBT hate crimes.

"Unfortunately, the community faces a lot of violence and discrimination in Ukraine still," said participant Kateryna Lytvynenko.

The march was guarded by police, who sought to prevent clashes with far-right groups that attempt to disrupt the event every year.

Ukraine's human rights ombudswoman Lyudmyla Denisova urged radical groups to refrain from violence.

Several hundred activists opposing the march held their own rally in a park in Kyiv.

No clashes were reported.

IMAGE: AP