In the heart of Bucharest, Romania’s capital, an impressive turnout of tens of thousands gathered to celebrate the annual gay pride parade. This year, the event carved its significance against the backdrop of a turbulent election cycle characterized by a surge in anti-LGBTQ+ sentiment. Participants spanned all age groups, filling the streets with vibrant colors as they marched down the iconic Victory Avenue. Many carried rainbow flags and placards with empowering messages like “Be proud, be bold, be you!” This parade marked the 20th anniversary of Bucharest Pride, which has been a staple event since 2005.
Romania’s recent elections were notably contentious, seeing increased support for far-right and conservative factions within the country, one of the most religious in the European Union. The tension within the political realm has mirrored growing challenges for the LGBTQ+ community. Victor Ciobotaru, who leads the ACCEPT Association—an advocacy group for LGBTQ+ rights—shed light on the escalating adversity faced by the community. According to Ciobotaru, the 2024-2025 election cycle has seen a dramatic rise in hate crimes. “We’ve witnessed an increase in reports of harassment and attacks against community members,” Ciobotaru remarked. “This climate of hate speech has tangible effects. Nonetheless, we are resolute and will continue to advocate for our rights regardless of political pressures.”
In contrast, the city also witnessed an anti-LGBTQ+ march earlier in the day. Right-wing organizations advocating for traditional family values gathered, brandishing Romania’s tricolor national flag and placards adorned with religious imagery. This counter-march was a deliberate show of opposition on the same day as the pride event. Prior to the parade, ACCEPT reported the discovery of a large “STOP LGBT” banner displayed on an abandoned building, which was subsequently removed. Ciobotaru commented, “Actions like these gain more legitimacy through the ongoing hate rhetoric. But we will not succumb to fear; our presence on the streets will continue.”
Romania’s journey toward LGBTQ+ rights has been gradual, with 24 years having passed since the decriminalization of homosexuality in this nation of 19 million. Despite this progress, a recent report by ILGA-Europe, known as the 2025 Rainbow Map, positioned Romania last among all EU member states in terms of legal and policy frameworks for LGBTQ+ rights, trailed only by Poland and Bulgaria. The continued efforts to fight for equality in Romania face significant challenges, yet advocates remain committed to their cause.