The 2026 Ipsos Pride Report indicates that the sharp decline in LGBTQ+ public acceptance seen during recent corporate and political pushbacks has leveled off, giving way to a period of stabilization.
The global study, tracking nearly 20,000 adults, shows that foundational support remains robust. Sixty-six percent of respondents back marriage equality or legal recognition, anchored by heavy approval in the Netherlands, Spain, and Sweden. However, sharp cultural divides persist. Support for brands actively promoting LGBTQ+ equality flattened at 42%, a major drop from nearly half of the public five years ago.
Furthermore, policy issues surrounding transgender individuals continue to see the most intense resistance. Global support for trans athletes competing based on gender identity dropped to just 22% this year, down from 32% in 2021. Experts say while basic legal protections remain stable, cultural consensus remains highly fragmented.
