A recent study conducted by Emisil has highlighted the most queer-friendly capitals around the world, ranking them based on various metrics that include inclusivity, safety, and economic factors. The study assessed cities by compiling data from five crucial indices: equality, safety, cost of living, rent, and the number of LGBTQ+-focused establishments and events. Each capital’s performance on these indices was aggregated to produce a composite score, with Reykjavik leading the list with a perfect score of 100.
The city achieved a safety index of 74.6 and an impressive equality index of 93, having embraced inclusivity, demonstrated by the legalisation of same-sex marriage in 2010. The presence of Rainbow Street, a landmark celebrating LGBTQ+ culture, further illustrates Reykjavik’s commitment to creating a supportive environment for both residents and visitors.
Securing the second spot on the list is Berlin, which scored 98. Known for its vibrant nightlife, it offers a staggering 147 queer bars and clubs, ensuring a plethora of safe spaces for the community. Furthermore, Berlin ranks as the second most affordable city in the survey, with a cost of living index of 44.
Third place is occupied by Oslo, with a score of 97. The city consistently achieves high scores across all indices, with a public opinion index that reflects strong societal support for LGBTQ+ rights. Additionally, Oslo offers the highest annual salary among the ranked capitals, averaging $102,000.
Denmark’s capital, Copenhagen, claims the fourth position with a score of 96. The city has demonstrated strong legal support for LGBTQ+ rights since the legalisation of same-sex marriage in 2012, and it houses 36 queer-friendly venues, fostering community engagement and inclusivity.
Fifth place goes to Bern, Switzerland, scoring 94. Though it legalised same-sex marriage only recently in 2022, Bern boasts a high safety index of 73.9 and offers competitive annual salaries, making it an appealing destination for LGBTQ+ individuals seeking economic stability and safe living conditions.
Amsterdam follows in sixth place with a score of 93, having been the first city globally to legalise same-sex marriage in 2001. With 67 LGBTQ+ events annually, Amsterdam remains steadfast in its dedication to providing avenues for social connection and support for the community.
London, the UK’s capital, ranks seventh with a score of 92. It hosts an impressive 3,800 LGBTQ+ events yearly, the most among the capitals assessed, alongside a wealth of queer bars and safe spaces available to residents and visitors alike.
Madrid comes in eighth with a score of 90, supported by an equality index of 83 and its historical significance in advancing LGBTQ+ rights, having legalised same-sex marriage in 2005. The supportive societal stance reflected in its public opinion index contributes to Madrid’s inclusive environment.
Vienna placed ninth with a score of 88 thanks to a competitive cost of living index of 45 with a strong equality index while completing the top ten is Helsinki, Finland, which achieved a score of 86. The city balances its equality index of 74 and a safety index of 73.8 with an affordable cost of living index of 42, promoting a welcoming atmosphere in the Nordic country despite a lower number of LGBTQ+ venues.
Commenting on the findings, a spokesperson from Emisil observed, “Cities that prioritise equality and safety for LGBTQ+ individuals build communities where people can thrive socially, culturally, and economically.” This statement underscores the notion that fostering inclusivity can lead to stronger, more resilient communities for everyone.
Source: Noah Wire Services
- https://www.gscene.com/news/international-news/reykjavik-ranked-top-queer-friendly-capital-in-the-world/ – This article supports the claim that Reykjavik is a top queer-friendly capital, highlighting its high equality and safety indices. It also mentions the legalisation of same-sex marriage in Iceland in 2010.
- https://www.gscene.com/news/international-news/reykjavik-ranked-top-queer-friendly-capital-in-the-world/ – The article further corroborates the ranking of Berlin and Oslo as second and third, respectively, in terms of queer-friendliness.
- https://www.outtraveler.com/travel-guides/travel-queer-trans-friendly-cities – This article provides additional context on queer-friendly cities, including Amsterdam and London, which are known for their LGBTQ+ events and venues.
- https://www.brusselstimes.com/1329264/brussels-among-10-best-city-in-the-world-for-lgbtq-singles – While not directly related to the specific rankings mentioned, this article supports the broader theme of cities being evaluated for their LGBTQ+ inclusivity and social opportunities.
Noah Fact Check Pro
The draft above was created using the information available at the time the story first
emerged. We’ve since applied our fact-checking process to the final narrative, based on the criteria listed
below. The results are intended to help you assess the credibility of the piece and highlight any areas that may
warrant further investigation.
Freshness check
Score:
6
Notes:
The narrative mentions recent legal changes, such as Bern legalising same-sex marriage in 2022, but lacks specific dates for the study or its publication. This suggests the content may not be entirely up-to-date.
Quotes check
Score:
8
Notes:
The quote from an Emisil spokesperson is present, but there is no online evidence of its earliest use. This could indicate it is an original source.
Source reliability
Score:
4
Notes:
The narrative originates from Vacationer Travel, which is not a widely recognised or reputable source in the context of LGBTQ+ studies or news.
Plausability check
Score:
8
Notes:
The claims about cities being welcoming to LGBTQ+ communities are plausible and align with known policies and cultural attitudes in these locations.
Overall assessment
Verdict (FAIL, OPEN, PASS): OPEN
Confidence (LOW, MEDIUM, HIGH): MEDIUM
Summary:
While the narrative presents plausible information about LGBTQ+ friendly cities, its freshness and source reliability are questionable. The lack of a well-known source and specific publication date reduces confidence in its accuracy.
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