ILGA-Europe published its 2024 Rainbow Map, ranking Romania as the worst country in the European Union for LGBTQ+ people. Poland, which had been last for six years, improved its position this year. The report evaluates countries based on levels of hate crimes, legal protections, and government attitudes toward LGBTQ+ communities.
Romania’s score dropped because of growing hostility and weak legal rights for LGBTQ+ individuals. Authorities in Romania were criticized for not protecting the basic freedoms of LGBTQ+ citizens. Meanwhile, Malta, Belgium, and Iceland ranked highest, showing strong protections and policies for inclusion.
Romania has seen an increase in hate crimes and public hostility toward LGBTQ+ people. Legal protections remain very limited. Without stronger laws and actions by the government, the community continues to face discrimination and safety risks.
Poland’s position improved after the 2023 elections, when a new government promised to support LGBTQ+ rights. However, no new legal reforms have been passed so far. The report noted that over 35 pride marches were held peacefully across Poland in the past year, reflecting a better environment for civil society.
The removal of the “LGBT-free zones” in Poland was welcomed by activists. These zones had tried to exclude LGBTQ+ people from public life and were widely condemned by the European Union. Despite peaceful events, Polish authorities still do not fully protect participants in LGBTQ+ gatherings.
A recent Ipsos+ survey found that 67% of Poles support same-sex marriage or civil unions. However, the parliament failed to pass civil partnership laws twice due to opposition from conservative lawmakers. This shows a gap between public opinion and current legal protections.
Malta, Belgium, and Iceland lead the EU in protecting LGBTQ+ rights. They have strong anti-discrimination laws and government policies that promote inclusion. These countries serve as examples for others to improve their protections.
The ILGA-Europe report stresses the urgent need for Romania and Poland to make legal reforms and take stronger actions. While Poland shows some progress, lasting change depends on political will. Romania must address rising hostility and improve legal rights to stop further decline.