Reports of violence and discrimination against LGBTQIA+ individuals in the Netherlands have surged in recent years, according to a joint report by the police and anti-discrimination agencies (ADVs) released on Wednesday 15 April 2026.
COC Nederland, a leading LGBTI+ rights organisation, has described the trend as an “extremely worrying development” and is urging the government to take immediate action.
Sharp increase in reported incidents
The number of reported cases of discrimination and violence against LGBTI+ people has nearly doubled over the past three years. In 2022, there were 2,654 reports; this figure rose to 3,257 in 2023, 4,467 in 2024, and reached 4,800 in 2025.
Despite the increase, only six individuals were convicted for LGBTI+ discrimination in 2025, as highlighted in a separate report by the Public Prosecution Service, also published on 15 April.
Call for government action
A spokesperson for COC emphasised the need for a society where everyone can live openly and authentically: “We want a country where everyone can visibly be themselves, no matter who you are or who you love”.
The organisation is calling on the Rob Jetten cabinet to address discrimination against the rainbow community and other minority groups.
COC is advocating for increased focus on acceptance and respect in schools, as well as additional resources for discrimination investigators and police capacity to combat hate crimes. They are also pushing for the implementation of anti-violence measures outlined in the 2025 Rainbow Agreement.
Alarming rise in anti-transgender discrimination
Data from Transgender Network Netherlands reveals a dramatic 51% increase in unique reports of discrimination against transgender individuals, rising from 264 in 2024 to 399 in 2025. Remke Verdegem, chair of Transgender Network, expressed grave concern: “Transgender people, who were largely ignored a decade ago, are now routinely subjected to verbal abuse and threats”.
Broader trend of rising discrimination
Overall, reports of discrimination across all grounds – including race, origin, religion, gender, and disability – have also risen sharply. The total number of reports increased from 26,078 in 2024 to 40,077 in 2025.
The spike is partly attributed to over 14,000 reports related to a controversial social media post by the leader of the PVV party.
LGBTQIA+ and travel
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