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In a recent report released by ILGA-Europe, Romania has taken the spot as the worst country in the European Union for LGBTQ+ rights. This change comes after Poland held that position for several years. ILGA-Europe, an organization that works for equality across Europe, published its annual “Rainbow Map” ranking in May 2024. The report tracks how well countries protect LGBTQ+ people through laws and civil rights.

The shift in ranking highlights the growing concerns about LGBTQ+ safety and equality in Romania. It also shows that while some things are improving in Poland, legal reforms are still falling short. Meanwhile, countries like Malta, Belgium, and Iceland continue to set strong examples by offering full protection and rights for LGBTQ+ individuals.

Why Romania Dropped to the Bottom

Romania’s low ranking is tied to several serious issues. LGBTQ+ people in the country have no legal recognition for their relationships. There are no laws that allow same-sex marriage or civil unions. Protections against hate crimes and discrimination are weak or missing. ILGA-Europe pointed out that Romania has failed to take action, even after rulings from international courts.

In 2023, the European Court of Human Rights ruled that Romania must offer legal protections for same-sex couples. The court found that Romania had violated the human rights of LGBTQ+ citizens. Despite this, no new laws have been passed. Many activists say the government is ignoring the ruling.

Social attitudes also play a role. In many parts of Romania, LGBTQ+ people face harassment and rejection. Public events like pride marches are rare and often met with violence or protests. Schools do not teach about LGBTQ+ topics, and media coverage is limited or negative.

Poland Improves Slightly But Still Ranks Second-Worst

Poland has ranked last on ILGA-Europe’s map since 2019. In 2024, it moved up one spot but remains the second-worst EU country for LGBTQ+ rights. The small improvement comes from changes in public space, not from legal reforms.

Since the 2023 elections, civil groups in Poland say things have become more open. ILGA-Europe reported that pride marches now face fewer disruptions. In 2023, over 35 pride events were held, most without serious problems. Activists say this is a positive sign.

One key change was the removal of the last “LGBT-free zone” in Poland. These zones were set up by local governments between 2019 and 2021. They declared that LGBTQ+ rights or topics were not welcome in public areas. At one point, more than 80 such zones existed. The European Union spoke out strongly against them, and the European Parliament condemned them in 2019.

While the removal of these zones is important, ILGA-Europe warns that it’s not enough. Pride events still receive little support from the police. And people who take part sometimes feel unsafe.

Laws Still Lag Behind in Poland

Although there have been small steps forward, Poland’s laws still do not protect LGBTQ+ people. Same-sex couples cannot get married or form civil partnerships. Hate speech laws do not include LGBTQ+ people, and there is no legal protection against discrimination in schools or workplaces.

This is despite growing public support. A recent Ipsos+ poll found that 67% of Poles support either same-sex marriage or civil unions. Younger people are especially supportive. Many want to see Poland catch up with other European countries.

The new government had promised LGBTQ+ reforms during their campaign. However, two bills for civil partnerships were blocked in parliament. The ruling coalition does not have enough votes or unity to pass new laws. Conservatives in government continue to resist change.

ILGA-Europe and other rights groups say these delays are hurting real people. Without strong laws, LGBTQ+ individuals face daily risks. They can lose jobs, face hate crimes, or be refused healthcare with little legal help.

Countries Leading the Way

While Romania and Poland struggle, other countries are setting high standards. Malta again ranked first on the Rainbow Map. The country allows same-sex marriage, gender recognition without surgery, and adoption by LGBTQ+ families. Belgium and Iceland also rank high thanks to their strong laws and support systems.

These countries show that real change is possible when governments take action. Laws that protect LGBTQ+ people make a real difference in their safety, health, and freedom.

Why This Ranking Matters

ILGA-Europe’s Rainbow Map is not just a list. It is a tool that tracks how well countries are doing in protecting basic human rights. It helps show what progress has been made and where more work is needed.

In places like Romania and Poland, LGBTQ+ people still face daily fear and uncertainty. Even as public support grows, laws have not kept up. Many people feel like they live in a society where they are not equal or even fully seen.

This is why activists stress the need for legal change. Events like pride marches are important, but they are not enough. Only with real legal protections can LGBTQ+ people feel safe and respected in every part of their lives.

As we move forward, all eyes will be on the actions of EU governments. Will they listen to the courts, the people, and the growing call for equality? Or will they continue to delay justice?