Assignment

From discriminatory legislation in member states to the vandalism of rainbow flags and defacement of gay monuments, the human rights of LGBTIQ+ people are increasingly under threat in many parts of Europe. To raise awareness of these issues, the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia (IDAHOT) is observed annually on 17 May. One of the key events surrounding this day is the IDAHOT+ Forum, an annual conference for European governments and civil society organizations aimed at improving the status and rights of LGBTIQ+ individuals. Eleven years after the Netherlands initiated the first IDAHOT+ Forum, the conference returned to our country this year with the theme: "The Future of Freedom and Equality in Europe". Given the growing concerns about this issue in Europe, this was a prime moment for the Netherlands to take the lead once again. In collaboration with the Ministry of Education, Culture, and Science, we organized this event.

Result

From 14 to 16 May, The Hague became the vibrant heart of Europe. 250 policymakers, experts, activists, and NGOs from across the continent gathered in the city’s most iconic locations, from the Great Church to Pulchri Art Gallery. Among the impressive speakers were Queen Máxima, Minister Dijkgraaf, and European Commissioner Dalli, all of whom voiced their support for the LGBTIQ+ community. The publication of two European rankings on LGBTIQ+ human rights highlighted areas where some countries could still make progress. Additionally, a significant milestone was achieved in the fight for inclusion: 32 European countries signed the ministerial declaration committing to protect equal rights and improve the social status and acceptance of LGBTIQ+ individuals. On the evening of Wednesday, 15 May, the Great Church hosted a closing dinner, spectacularly opened to the song ‘Multicolor,’ filling the hall with color and energy. Attendees then engaged in extensive discussions about the day’s themes. The next day, the IDAHOT+ Forum concluded at The Hague Holland Spoor station, where Minister Dijkgraaf and Commissioner Dalli departed for Brussels on the ‘Rainbow Express.’ This train journey, an initiative by the Netherlands and Belgium, symbolized the handover of the IDAHOT+ Forum to Belgium, which was organizing a conference on LGBTIQ+ rights in the EU as the current EU chair. Next year, Malta will host the IDAHOT+ Forum.

"We look back on a very successful edition. Thanks to the dedication, flexibility, and excellent organization of Obsession, we were able to fully focus on the content. This has led to an event that directly contributed to improving the status and rights of LGBTIQ+ individuals in Europe. That is what we strive for. The forum not only provided new insights but also led to concrete steps towards a more inclusive Europe." – Nancy de Klerk, Senior Policy Advisor, Ministry of Education, Culture, and Science.