Riga - Post Report Question and Answers
Is this a good city for LGBT expatriates? Why or why not?
Despite being in Europe, Latvia ranks toward the bottom of the EU in terms of any measure relating to LGBTQI rights. While the expat community is welcoming, there is quite a degree of prejudice in the local population. - Mar 2022
Not great, but vastly improved from 10 years ago. Still, Latvia ranks at the bottom of every index for EU countries as far as quality of life for LGBT individuals. There is one active NGO that puts on events on a fairly regular basis. - Jul 2017
There is one LGBTI association in Riga, and it is working steadfastly to promote change and greater acceptance of the LGBTI community. Overall, I imagine that Riga would be a difficult place to be openly LGBTI, as homophobia is unfortunately still quite common. However, in 2015, Riga hosted a successful EuroPride event- a sign that change is happening, albeit gradually. - Sep 2016
I suppose it could be worse. It's tough to be out here; there's a lot of homophobia, but there is a scene, I gather. - Jul 2010
Not sure. There is at least an annual gay/lesbian event which always sparks protests. - Aug 2008
