Maersk and Google Denmark have confirmed they will not sponsor Copenhagen Pride 2025, joining a growing list of major companies choosing to distance themselves from the event for the second consecutive year.
Both companies shared their decisions with Kforum, part of Watch Medier, explaining that their current stance continues the approach taken in 2024, when a major controversy erupted over the Pride organizers’ request for sponsors to take a public position on the Israel-Palestine conflict. That demand was later withdrawn, but not before it triggered a wave of sponsor withdrawals.
Pride support continues internally and globally
A spokesperson from Maersk stated:
“Our decision from spring 2024 remains unchanged. We continue to support our employees in celebrating diversity through internal activities and participation in Pride celebrations around the world.”
Similarly, Google Denmark emphasized its commitment to diversity and inclusion:
“This year, we are building on the direction we took last year by supporting this important cause in ways other than being an official sponsor of Copenhagen Pride. We fully support our employees participating in the celebrations.”
Impact of last year’s controversy still felt
The controversy from 2024 continues to shape corporate relationships with Copenhagen Pride. Although the organizers reversed the requirement for political statements, the incident appears to have left a lasting mark on sponsor trust and engagement.
This latest round of withdrawals, following the announcement that Dansk Industri will also skip this year’s event, raises fresh concerns about the long-term sustainability of corporate partnerships with Pride events in Denmark.
Copenhagen Pride 2025 remains scheduled for 17 August, with expected strong turnout from local communities, activists, and public bodies.
