Pride organizers from across Europe and Central Asia will gather in Tirana, Albania, this December for the second 'UNSTOPPABLE' summit, a forum dedicated to political strategy and building collective power. The event, hosted by ILGA-Europe in partnership with local organization Aleanca LGBT, will take place from December 10-13, 2026.
The summit aims to address the growing pressures on Pride events, which are increasingly on the front lines of political debate. In many parts of Europe, organizers face restrictions on assembly, mobilization from far-right groups, and political polarization that challenge their ability to organize. The event seeks to move beyond practical training, creating a space for experienced activists to discuss difficult political choices and share mobilization strategies.
A Focus on Political Action
The choice of Tirana as the host city is significant. Organizers highlight Albania's capital as a place where the politics of public space and protest are very much alive, with recent sustained demonstrations on issues ranging from environmental protection to social security.
The summit's agenda will focus on several key strategic questions:
Defining Political Goals: Discussions will cover how Prides can set their political agendas, prioritize demands, and navigate competing expectations from within their own communities. The sessions will explore what makes Pride mobilization politically effective and the compromises that can come with institutional recognition and public support.
Building Alliances: As civic space comes under pressure, the summit will explore how Prides can connect with other protest movements. It will address what tangible solidarity looks like, how to navigate disagreements, and how to maintain political independence while building broader coalitions.
Sustaining Momentum: A key theme is how to turn the annual energy of a Pride march into lasting political participation. Organizers will share strategies for building a constituency that can act politically year-round, beyond a single event.
Cross-Border Cooperation: The event will also facilitate discussions on where stronger international connections, joint advocacy, or hands-on solidarity could make a difference for Pride organizers facing similar challenges in different countries.
Who Should Apply?
This is not a beginner's training but a peer strategy gathering for those in leadership roles. ILGA-Europe is looking for applicants who actively shape the political work of their Pride. Ideal candidates should:
- Have a central or leadership role in shaping their Pride’s political direction for at least two years.
- Represent an organization with experience in hosting Pride as part of a broader strategy for political mobilization and change.
- Have a genuine interest in working more closely with other Pride organizers on shared analysis and potential cooperation.
- Be ready to engage in substantive strategic exchange, sharing both successes and failures to foster collective learning.
Applications are particularly encouraged from organizers in contexts where civic freedoms are under pressure. The goal is to bring together a diverse group of 20-25 participants. Only one application per organization will be considered.
Practical Information & How to Apply
Dates: December 10-13, 2026 (Arrival on Dec 10, departure on Dec 13).
Location: Tirana, Albania.
Language: The summit will be conducted in English.
Costs: ILGA-Europe will cover all travel and accommodation costs. A daily allowance will also be provided.
Application Deadline: Applications must be submitted by 10 November 2026, 23:59 CET.
Interested organizers can complete the application form on SurveyMonkey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Unstoppable-2026
All applicants will be notified of the outcome by November 13. For any questions, contact Imanol at imanol@ilga-europe.org.
