For over a decade, the annual survey on the quality of life in European cities has been a compass, offering a distinctive look into the heartbeat of city life. In 2023, this extensive survey, encompassing the voices of over 70,000 individuals across 83 cities, reveals insights into the European urban experience. We are focusing on the voices of the LGBTIQ community..
LGBTIQ Inclusiveness: Navigating the Urban Landscape
A compelling facet of the report explores the perceptions of LGBTIQ inclusiveness. Encouragingly, 76% of LGBTIQ individuals consider their city a welcoming place. As expected, cities outshine rural areas by 7 percentage points in terms of being favorable for LGBTIQ residents. Diving deeper, Copenhagen, Munich, and Groningen claim the top spots, with noteworthy progress observed in Cluj-Napoca, Verona, and Gdansk.
An interactive map unfolds a dynamic narrative, illustrating the varying perceptions across Europe. Western and Central Europe emerges as an inclusive haven, while a shift towards uncertainty is noted as we move east and southeast. Notably, non-EU countries face challenges, with exceptions in western and southwest EU cities like Lille and Marseille, where concerns about safety for LGBTIQ residents persist.
Beyond the statistics and charts, the report echoes the sentiment that cities fostering diversity are perceived as better places to live. The correlation between satisfaction levels and inclusivity underscores the importance of workplaces where everyone, regardless of their background, feels acknowledged and valued. EPBN, with its diverse member base spanning Spain, Poland, Italy, Croatia, Slovenia, Germany, Switzerland, Austria, France, Hungary, and the Czech Republic, stands as a collaborative force shaping a future where work environments are not just spaces for employment but arenas for empowerment. Through shared experiences and collaborative initiatives, we aim to contribute to the narrative that an inclusive workplace isn’t just a goal but a necessity for the thriving communities we envision.
Source: https://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/information-sources/maps/quality-of-life_en
