The COC celebrates a milestone and sends a clear message: the Netherlands must lead again on equal rights. The organisation has championed LGBTQ+ rights for decades. It now sees opportunities being missed.

Many countries have made great progress recently. Same-sex marriage, adoption, and gender recognition are examples. Yet progress varies worldwide. The Netherlands once led the way. It celebrated the world's first same-sex marriage in 2001. But the COC warns we are becoming more cautious now.

This goes beyond major laws alone. The COC finds that LGBTQ+ people face daily discrimination. This happens at work and in schools. The organisation calls for stronger action: better legal protection and more societal awareness.

The COC's question is straightforward: why shouldn't we lead again? Other countries look to us. We have the knowledge and experience. We simply need to make it a priority.