2026 Rainbow Map delivers mixed picture on LGBTQ+ rights
Key takeaways
- ILGA Europe has released its annual ranking of LGBTQ+ rights across Europe and Central Asia, with Spain taking the top spot for the first time.
- https://p.dw.com/p/5Ddvy In some European countries, LGBTQ+ rights have been progressing.
- Katrin Hugendubel, Deputy Director of ILGA Europe, told DW Spain's rise shows what is possible when governments make a deliberate choice to advance equality rather than retreat from it.
Why this matters: an international story with cross-border implications worth tracking.
ILGA Europe has released its annual ranking of LGBTQ+ rights across Europe and Central Asia, with Spain taking the top spot for the first time. But behind the numbers, activists warn of a growing backlash against LGBTQ+.
https://p.dw.com/p/5Ddvy In some European countries, LGBTQ+ rights have been progressing. But in others they have been rolled back Image: Fabian Sommer/dpa/picture alliance Advertisement After ten years in the lead, Malta has been overtaken by Spain at the top of ILGA Europe's annual Rainbow Map. The ranking, compiled by the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association (ILGA), compares laws and policies affecting LGBTQ+ people in 49 countries across Europe and Central Asia.
Katrin Hugendubel, Deputy Director of ILGA Europe, told DW Spain's rise shows what is possible when governments make a deliberate choice to advance equality rather than retreat from it.