Pride is a Protest – Queer Rights in Europe and Worldwide Under Pressure

Queer Rights Are Human Rights – this may sound self-evident, but unfortunately it is not the case everywhere. According to the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association (ILGA World), same-sex sexual acts are criminalized in 64 UN member states, and in seven countries, they can even be punishable by death. In at least 61 countries, legal restrictions limit freedom of expression on issues related to sexual and gender diversity. In Uganda, for example, a law was enacted in 2023 that imposes severe penalties on same-sex partnerships. In Russia, since 2013, the so-called “propaganda of non-traditional sexual relationships” has been banned. Since his return to office in January, US President Donald Trump has been systematically rolling back the rights of queer people in the United States: all state programs on diversity and inclusion have been cut, and access to medical care for trans people has been restricted. Even ten years after the legalization of same-sex marriage, some US states are once again attempting to exclude queer people from this right.

The situation for queer rights in Europe is also increasingly concerning. In Germany and across the EU, the number of crimes against queer people has risen in recent years. In Hungary, so-called “child protection laws” have been passed that, in reality, push queer realities out of public life. In Germany, as in other Western democracies, solidarity with and visibility of the queer community are being undermined in the name of alleged neutrality. Transphobic narratives are increasingly exploited by populist actors, and sexual and gender diversity is blamed as a scapegoat for societal tensions.

Against this backdrop, we are very pleased to welcome Julia Ehrt, Executive Director of the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association (ILGA World), on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at 5:30 pm at the Schwarzkopf Foundation Young Europe.

Together with Julia Ehrt, we will discuss questions such as: How can queer rights be defended and strengthened at the national, regional, and international levels? What role do institutions like the UN or the EU play? Where is the line between legitimate political debate and the endangerment of fundamental rights? And how can (European) democracies prevent human rights from becoming bargaining chips in political power struggles and election strategies?

We look forward to your participation and kindly ask for a binding registration by October 14, 2025.