Copenhagen is leading – but the world is changing
Copenhagen leads the way: in today’s report from the global NGO ‘Open for Business’ our city receives the highest ranking – an AAA rating – recognizing the strong combination of economic growth and LGBTQIA+ inclusion.
The report evaluates 149 global cities, and Copenhagen stands out as an example of how diversity and equality are not just ideals, but also driving forces for economic development and prosperity.
This is a position we can be proud of – the result of decades of work for equal rights, inclusion and acceptance. However, both nationally and globally, forces are working fast and hard against everything we have built and now need to protect. These forces are threatening the foundations of the LGBTQIA+ community, and Pride needs every person and every organisation that shares our values to step up – now.
LGBTQIA+ rights are under threat
Across the globe, the LGBTQIA+ community is facing increasing resistance. In the United States, we are witnessing a rollback of LGBTQIA+ rights, with growing attacks on both transgender rights and initiatives that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), which directly impact businesses worldwide.
In Europe, the pressure is also mounting. In Hungary, Pride has been banned, and in countries like Italy and Turkey, anti-LGBTQIA+ government policy is gaining ground. In the United Kingdom, trans people are currently facing discriminatory legislation that rolls back the clock and excludes them from some public spaces. Even here, in Denmark, some politicians are attempting to change legislation to make our laws less inclusive.
Clearly, this is a frightening time for all of us, and we must take action before we risk losing those rights we’ve won.
We have come a long way in Denmark – but there is more to do
Although Denmark is often considered a frontrunner in LGBTQIA+ rights, the global trends are also affecting us. In 2024, a trans woman was killed in Copenhagen, and hate crimes against LGBTQIA+ individuals are on the rise. Five men were convicted for hate crimes against Sønderborg Pride, and discrimination is still widespread in workplaces – four out of five LGBTQIA+ individuals have experienced it, and one in ten have been subjected to physical violence. These incidents show that we cannot take our rights for granted, and that the challenges are still present.
The progress we’ve made is fragile
The progress we’ve made is fragile, and we are seeing how it’s being challenged both globally and here at home. Copenhagen Pride is not unaffected by the uncertainty that marks these times. We are experiencing that some of our once-strong allies in business are hesitant. Not because they are against us, but because we are all in uncertain times. Companies are hesitant to take a public stance in these uncertain times, but it is incredibly important to recognise that it has never been more crucial to stand firm.
The time to step up is now
In a time when LGBTQIA+ rights are under threat worldwide, we need allies and businesses to step forward with courage and action, just as our existing commercial partners have already. This is not just about values – it’s about standing up for diversity, inclusion, and equality as the foundation for healthy and productive businesses and safe colleagues.
Now is the time to show your support. If your business or organisation believes in LGBTQIA+ rights, inclusion, and diversity, NOW is the time to raise your flag. Support the cause and be part of the fight for equal rights. Your support for Copenhagen Pride sends a powerful message – a message that we will not let our progress be rolled back. It is time to stand up, show what we stand for, and together ensure that our values are not just words, but actions.
Because if we don’t, our place at the top of Open for Business’ city rankings will be a momentary glory.
