Among European countries, the Netherlands—along with Sweden and Denmark—is one of the most positive towards LGBTIQ+ people. Research shows that 86% of Dutch people have a positive attitude towards homosexuality, and 71% towards transgender people.
In general, LGBTIQ+ persons in the Netherlands can live openly and freely. You can walk hand-in-hand with a same-sex partner, kiss in public, and talk openly about your identity at work. However, the Netherlands is not a perfect country. Discrimination still exists, and some people may react negatively or say offensive things. Homophobia and transphobia are still present.
History of the Dutch LGBTIQ+ movement
In 1927, one of the first known gay bars in the world opened in Amsterdam: Café ’t Mandje. It still exists today and is located on the Zeedijk in Amsterdam.
After World War II, the LGBTIQ+ organization the Shakespeare Club was founded. In 1949, it became known as COC. During the 1950s and 1960s, COC grew larger. It organized parties in its own club and led the first protest against Article 248bis. This law, introduced in 1911, made same-sex sexual contact illegal. The article was removed from Dutch law in 1971.
In the 1970s, homosexuality became more accepted. The first Pride event in the Netherlands was held in 1978 and was called Roze Zaterdag (Pink Saturday). Each year, it took place in a different city. In 1987, the Homomonument was opened in the center of Amsterdam. This monument honors people who were persecuted because of their LGBTIQ+ identity. A remembrance ceremony is held there every year.
In 2001, the Netherlands became the first country in the world to legalize marriage between same-gender couples. In 2023, another major milestone was reached: LGBTIQ+ rights were officially added to the Dutch constitution.