The ITB Berlin, the world's leading travel trade show, has launched an online survey among LGBTIQ+ travelers in collaboration with A3M Global Monitoring and Diversity Tourism. The aim of this first market survey is to identify the risks and challenges faced by queer travelers worldwide. The insights gained will contribute to updating A3M's annual global LGBTQ+ risk map, which has so far been primarily based on the legal frameworks of individual countries.

Background of the survey

LGBTIQ+ travelers often face specific risks and uncertainties, ranging from legal restrictions to societal discrimination. A study has shown that many queer individuals have experienced discrimination during their travels and feel unsafe. ITB Berlin has made it their mission to better understand these challenges and develop solutions to improve the safety and well-being of LGBTQ+ travelers.

Objective of the survey

The survey invites LGBTIQ+ individuals to share their personal experiences and perceptions regarding various travel destinations around the world. Participants are asked to evaluate the LGBTIQ+ situation in a country of their choice – ideally in a country where they have the most experience. There is also the option to complete the survey for multiple countries by selecting a separate questionnaire for each country.

Meaning for the LGBTIQ+ community

The collected data will enable a more comprehensive picture of the actual risks and challenges faced by LGBTIQ+ travelers. This goes beyond merely looking at legal frameworks and also takes into account social and cultural factors that can influence the travel experience. By participating in the survey, queer travelers can actively contribute to making the travel industry more inclusive and safer.

Engagement of ITB Berlin for LGBTIQ+ issues

Since the late 1990s, LGBTIQ+ tourism has been present at ITB Berlin and was established as an official segment in 2010. Over the years, this segment has developed into the largest LGBTIQ+ tourism presence at a global tourism fair and is now one of the most diverse areas of ITB Berlin. Annually, ITB Berlin, in collaboration with its partner agency Diversity Tourism GmbH, hosts the established LGBTIQ+ Tourism Pavilion with exhibitors, stage programs, and networking events for industry professionals and media.

Participation in the survey

ITB Berlin is calling on LGBTIQ+ travelers worldwide to participate in the survey and share their experiences. Participation is anonymous, and the collected data will be treated confidentially. By actively participating, each individual can help make the travel industry safer and more inclusive for the LGBTIQ+ community.

The results of the survey are expected to be presented at the upcoming ITB Berlin and are intended to serve as a basis for future initiatives and measures that promote the safety and well-being of LGBTIQ+ travelers.