Europe Unites to Bolster LGBTIQ+ Shelter Network
New Federation Aims to Enhance Support for Vulnerable Youth
A significant step towards greater European solidarity for LGBTIQ+ individuals facing housing insecurity was taken in Lyon on July 24, 2025. Dialogai and The Geneva refuge were among several European organizations to formally establish the European Federation of LGBTIQ+ Shelters.
Forging a United Front
This new federation intends to significantly boost collaboration among reception facilities across the continent. A primary focus will be placed on assisting young LGBTIQ+ individuals experiencing precarious living situations or familial estrangement. The collective aims to elevate access to secure housing, tailored support services, and more inclusive policies at a pan-European level.
Matthias Erhardt, president of Dialogai, officially signed the founding statutes, cementing the organization’s role as a foundational member of this developing network. His commitment underscores the shared vision for a more supportive European infrastructure.
Addressing Critical Needs
The initiative comes at a critical time, with reports indicating a rising number of LGBTIQ+ youth facing homelessness. For instance, The Trevor Project’s 2023 National Survey on LGBTQ Youth Mental Health found that 30% of LGBTQ youth reported experiencing homelessness or housing instability at some point in their lives (The Trevor Project, 2023). The European Federation seeks to provide a more robust and coordinated response to such challenges.
