Barcelona bids to host WorldPride 2030, calling itself a 'refuge of freedom'

Barcelona has officially launched its bid to host WorldPride 2030, with Mayor Jaume Collboni proclaiming the city a "refuge of freedom" against the backdrop of increasing intolerance. The proposal, which will be decided in November, places Barcelona in the final selection phase against Bangkok, following London's withdrawal.

Collboni emphasized that Barcelona does not need tourism promotion but rather seeks to leverage its reputation and history to champion global equality. He highlighted that hard-won rights are currently at risk. "When Barcelona speaks, the world listens," the mayor stated to LGTBIQ+ representatives, promising the city would embrace diversity with a smile and a combative message against hate speech.

The bid is centered on the theme 'Let's think, let's answer, let's change' and proposes three weeks of activities expected to quintuple the attendance of the local pride celebration. Key initiatives include establishing a residency for LGTBQ+ refugees, offering political asylum and social support, reinforcing Barcelona's role as a sanctuary city.

Furthermore, the proposal includes a human rights conference aiming to gather over 600 activists worldwide. The goal is to draft the 'Barcelona Manifesto,' a document intended to influence global policies for the defense of the LGTBQ+ community.

“

When Barcelona speaks, the world listens.