Under the slogan Love of Freedom - Freedom to Love, Copenhagen hosted the 2nd World Outgames this summer. Between July 25 and August 2, over 5,500 LGBT athletes from 92 countries participated at this world sporting event. Backed up by the City of Copenhagen, several key partners, and the thousands of volunteers, the athletes and the visitors could enjoy 2,200 events and compete in 1,800 events in 34 sports.
According to the organisers, World Outgames 2009 was a smashing success socially, politically and economically. The final report is expected to end with a neutral or positive outcome. Speaking of organisers - the core task was done by Pan Idræt, EGLSF member club who also organised the EuroGames in Copenhagen in 2003.
Apart from sports, Outgames also offered over 300 cultural activities, featuring 6 out-cities: Antwerp, Mexico City, Melbourne,
Tel Aviv, Rio de Janeiro and Aarhus who all impressed the audience with spectacular shows & events during the games.
A very important part of the Outgames was also the International Conference on LGBT Human Rights. Between July 27 and 29, 110 workshops were held, with 24 prominent keynote speakers. A very valuable outcome of the conference is also the Copengahen catalogue of good practices. At the conference, Mr Ben Baks also presented the The Copenhagen Principle on Sport o behalf of EGLSF, which proposes an addendum to the existing Yogyakarta Principles.
The need for hosting such events was unfortunately proven also in Copenhagen, as there were two violent homophobic attacks against LGBT athletes participating at the Outgames.
EGLSF is proud to have supported and participated at this global event celebrating pride and diversity through sport, culture and human rights.