More than 30 million LGBTQ+ people work in the European Union today. But their legal protection is still different from country to country. This affects the everyday reality of companies, teams, and employees. EU law bans discrimination based on sexual orientation, but it does not address gender identity or gender expression. Trans and non-binary people therefore often remain without clear legal protection, and the differences between individual countries are significant.
When companies do more than they have to
Many companies today are taking the situation into their own hands. Progressive organisations do not wait only for laws, nor are they satisfied with doing only what is required. They create their own rules and policies to fill the gaps in protection and build workplaces where people can feel safe and respected. This kind of psychological safety is the foundation of innovation, productivity, and long-term growth. But can EU laws really guarantee the rights of LGBTQ+ people at work? Or is the protection of talent and Europe’s economic future mainly driven today by brave companies? And does Europe need a clear directive that would firmly anchor the safety of LGBTQ+ people in the workplace?
Awards for the most committed changemakers
The conference programme includes the ceremonial LGBTQ+ Friendly Employer Awards Ceremony – an award for employers who support inclusion and create safe and fair working environments. You will meet people and organisations who turn fairness in the workplace from words into action. Will you join us?
Later the same day, the celebration continues with the European EPBN – WISE Awards Ceremony. This year, the conference is part of the Workplace Inclusion for Sustainable Europe project (EPBN – WISE), which we are delivering together with other organisations from the European Pride Business Network in Italy (EDGE), France (L’Autre Cercle), Germany (Berufsverband VK), and Austria (Pride Biz).
