Thousands of people marched in Bucharest on Saturday to celebrate the city’s annual Pride Parade. Supporters of all ages walked down Victory Avenue, waving rainbow flags and holding signs that read, “Be proud, be bold, be you!”
Organizers noted that this year’s event marked 20 years since the first Bucharest Pride in 2005. It became a powerful show of unity during a time of political and social tension.
Hate Speech Grows During Elections
The parade came shortly after a heated election cycle. During the campaign, Romania saw a rise in support for far-right and conservative groups. As a result, hate speech targeting the LGBTQ+ community also increased.
Victor Ciobotaru, executive director of the ACCEPT Association, said the organization recorded “a huge increase” in hate crimes during the 2024–2025 election season. He added that “more people complained about being harassed on the streets or being attacked.”
Ciobotaru also warned, “This hate speech doesn’t remain without effect—we can feel the tension within the society.” However, he stressed, “We are going to continue to fight for our rights, no matter the political climate.”
Anti-LGBTQ+ Rally Held Same Day
Earlier on Saturday, right-wing groups held an anti-LGBTQ+ rally in the capital. Many protesters carried Romania’s tricolour flags and religious icons. They called for traditional family values and condemned same-sex marriage.
The ACCEPT Association also reported a “STOP LGBT” banner draped across an abandoned building. Authorities later removed it. Ciobotaru said that “these types of actions are now more legitimized by the hate discourse which was spread all during these years.” Still, he stated firmly, “We will not be afraid to go on the streets.”
Romania Ranks Last in EU LGBTQ+ Rights
Although Romania decriminalized homosexuality 24 years ago, the country still struggles with LGBTQ+ rights. According to the 2025 Rainbow Map by ILGA-Europe, Romania ranks last among the EU’s 27 member states. The group noted that only Poland and Bulgaria scored slightly better.
Final Words
Despite political hostility and growing hate, thousands in Bucharest marched proudly. Their message was clear: “We are here, and we won’t back down.”