Dansk Industri (DI), Denmark’s main business lobby organization, has once again chosen not to participate in Copenhagen Pride, the country’s most prominent LGBTQ+ event. For the second consecutive year, the organization will not sponsor or take part in the celebrations, which are scheduled for 17 August 2025.
In a written statement to the Danish press agency Ritzau, DI’s Director of Counselling, Kinga Szabo Christensen, explained that the organization has had “many internal discussions” and ultimately decided to wait before re-engaging with the event.
“We have had many internal discussions and have decided to wait and see, so that good intentions can take shape before we actively participate in the parade again under the DI flag.”
Backlash from last year’s Pride controversy
DI’s withdrawal last year followed a controversial decision by Copenhagen Pride to ask sponsors to take a public stance on the Israel-Hamas conflict. Although Pride later reversed this request, the move led to a significant number of sponsors withdrawing their support.
That incident left a lasting impact on the relationship between Copenhagen Pride and corporate sponsors, and this year’s decision by DI indicates that confidence has yet to be fully restored.
Uncertain future for corporate sponsorship
The absence of DI raises further questions about the future of corporate sponsorships for Pride events in Denmark. As one of the most influential business organizations in the country, DI’s continued hesitation could influence other companies to follow suit or adopt a cautious approach.
Despite this, Copenhagen Pride is expected to proceed as planned, with strong backing from grassroots organizations, the LGBTQ+ community, and several public institutions. Copenhagen Pride 2025 will culminate in a grand parade through the streets of the Danish capital on 17 August.
