Queen Máxima of the Netherlands made history on Saturday by becoming the first queen consort to participate in a Pride march, joining the opening of WorldPride 2026 in Amsterdam.
The event brought together hundreds of thousands of participants from around the world and served as a public show of support for the LGBTQ+ community. Her participation marked a symbolic gesture by the Dutch monarchy and government amid growing concerns over rising anti-LGBTQ+ discrimination and restrictions in parts of Europe.
The appearance comes as advocacy groups continue to warn of an increase in hate crimes and political efforts to roll back LGBTQ+ rights across the continent, despite significant legal advances made in many European Union member states.
