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Netherlands ranks 13th on LGBTQ+ rights list for second year

Netherlands remains in 13th place on Europe's LGBTQ+ human rights ranking. COC Netherlands urges government to strengthen LGBTQ+ rights and safety measures.

RainbowNews EditorialMay 12, 2026 — Netherlands3 min read
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Netherlands ranks 13th on an important LGBTQ+ rights list. This ranking measures LGBTQ+ human rights across Europe. Netherlands has not improved or declined compared to last year.

ILGA-Europe creates this ranking annually. ILGA-Europe fights for LGBTQ+ rights internationally. They examine laws and regulations in different countries. They also assess how well countries protect LGBTQ+ people.

Netherlands performs well on several aspects. Anti-discrimination laws protect LGBTQ+ people effectively. Marriage is available to everyone in Netherlands. This was established early in our country.

However, improvements are still needed. Netherlands loses points on violence protection. LGBTQ+ people still face violence and harassment regularly. The government does too little here, critics argue.

COC Netherlands is dissatisfied with 13th place. COC is Netherlands' largest LGBTQ+ organization. They believe Netherlands should rank higher. Netherlands was once a pioneer in LGBTQ+ rights. That position has weakened now.

Countries like Malta, Belgium and Iceland rank higher. They perform better on LGBTQ+ rights and protection. Netherlands can learn from these countries, COC says.

COC urges Dutch government to do more. They want better transgender protection. They also demand increased funding for LGBTQ+ policies. Additionally, street safety needs more attention.

This ranking shows much work remains. Even in advanced countries like Netherlands. Equality for LGBTQ+ people isn't automatic yet. That must change, COC Netherlands believes.

RE

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