Pride Month: which countries are most LGBTQ friendly?

With Pride Month in full swing throughout June, experts have revealed the countries setting the gold standard when it comes to creating a safe and supportive environment.  

The study, conducted by global workspace provider Instant Offices, analysed factors such as social acceptance, safety figures, employment discrimination protection and Equality Index data to determine the world’s most LGBTQI+ friendly countries.  

Netherlands tops global rankings for being most LGBTQ friendly

The results reveal The Netherlands as a frontrunner for LGBTQ+ workplace inclusion, with the highest Social Acceptance Score (9.46) and a near-top Equality Index Score of 83. It’s closely followed by Norway, Canada, and Sweden — all of which combine high safety scores with strong legislative protections and a cultural climate that supports diversity. 

Unsurprisingly, all countries in the top 10 scored a 1 for employment discrimination protections, indicating legal safeguards are in place. However, the Equality Index Scores vary, suggesting some countries still have work to do to ensure full parity across all areas of life. 

The UK, while performing relatively well with a Social Acceptance Score of 8.34, lands lower on the Equality Index (74) compared to peers like Norway and Canada — a potential sign that lived experiences still fall short of legal frameworks. 

This data underscores that inclusion isn’t just about policy, it’s about everyday culture, safety, and visibility. And as we celebrate Pride, it’s a powerful reminder that progress must be felt across all fronts: legal, societal, and workplace culture. 

How to create a culture of LGBTQI+ acceptance in the workplace

Research shows that LGBTQI+ workers experience higher job dissatisfaction, lower psychological safety and higher levels of workplace conflict than their heterosexual counterparts. With this in mind, how can workplaces create a culture of acceptance:  

• Communicate your diversity, equality and inclusion (DEI) goals to all employees and provide DEI training for all employees. This includes explaining what it means to be an LGBTQI+ ally. Read more about DEI in the workplace.
• Use inclusive language and encourage all employees to do the same.
• Review your DEI practices regularly and identify the areas that need improvement.
• Follow inclusive recruitment practices.
• Create an employee resource group (ERG) for LGBTQI+ employees.
• Encourage the celebration of Pride in the workplace.

An inclusive workplace is a productive workplace, with employees who feel safe and valued being highly engaged and less likely to leave their employer. Creating a culture of inclusivity benefits businesses as well as individuals. 

You can view the full study here.