Pedro Sanchez has issued a defiant message celebrating equality after Spain was ranked the safest country in the world for LGBTQ+ people.
The socialist leader shared the message on X after Spain topped the latest Rainbow Map ranking of LGBTQ+ rights and freedoms in Europe for the first time.
‘Spain leads for the first time the Rainbow Map of LGTBI rights and freedoms in Europe,’ the prime minister wrote.
‘A recognition of the social and legislative advances in our country, and of all the people who poured their heart and soul into living with equality and without fear.’
The Spanish premier also appeared to take aim at growing anti-LGBTQ rhetoric from parts of the far right across Europe.
‘In the face of those who strive to drag us back to the past, we move forward with strength, dignity and joy,’ he added, ‘Pride in our country.’
Spain overtook countries including Malta and Belgium in the annual ranking, which evaluates nations based on legal protections, anti-discrimination laws, gender recognition rights, family protections and broader equality measures.
The country has long been viewed as one of Europe’s most progressive nations on LGBTQ+ rights after legalising same-sex marriage back in 2005 under former prime minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero.
In recent years Spain has further expanded protections through new transgender rights legislation and anti-discrimination reforms.
