The Network of European LGBTIQ* Families Associations (NELFA) welcomes the European Commission’s new LGBTIQ Equality Strategy as an important continuation of the EU’s commitment to equality and human rights for all. The new strategy builds upon the first-ever LGBTIQ Equality Strategy (2020–2025), which marked a historic milestone in placing LGBTIQ rights firmly on the European policy agenda.
That first strategy helped raise the visibility of rainbow families and the issues they continue to face across the continent, especially when exercising their right to free movement within the EU. Thanks to years of advocacy by civil society, including NELFA and its member organisations, the Commission publicly recognized that freedom of movement must mean equality for all families. As Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated: “If you are a parent in one country, you are a parent in every country.”
Yet, five years later, the reality for many families remains unchanged. Despite landmark rulings from both national and EU courts, such as the “Baby Sara” case before the Court of Justice of the European Union, many Member States still refuse to recognise same-sex parenthood or family ties established elsewhere in the Union. The promise of equal mobility remains unfulfilled.
NELFA acknowledges that the new Equality Strategy is again a step in the right direction. It sets out ambitious goals, reaffirms key principles of non-discrimination and inclusion, and recognises the diversity of families in Europe. However, while rich in commitments, the strategy lacks binding enforcement mechanisms. It does not include sanctions, conditionality, or coercive legal tools to compel Member States to implement its measures.
As a result, progress continues to rely on political will at the national level—a fragile foundation, especially in times of rising anti-LGBTIQ rhetoric and legislative backsliding in parts of the EU. Without enforcement, the strategy risks remaining a roadmap of good intentions rather than a guarantee of equal rights for all citizens.
In other words, the plan charts a noble direction, but it hands Member States a compass without ensuring they take the journey.
NELFA calls on the European Commission, the European Parliament, and Member States to ensure that the principles of equality and mutual recognition are not only affirmed, but enforced. Every family deserves to live, move, and thrive freely within the Union, without discrimination or fear.
