The global IDAHOT theme for 2025 chosen by Civil Society Organisations is “The Power of Communities”. What does this motto mean to you personally?

We are living in a time of rising far-right movements and setbacks for our rights and dignity. Alongside this trend, progressive forces are becoming better organized and are also gaining ground. But for them to have the ability to defend all of us, these forces must include and build strong communities. Together, we are stronger, less vulnerable, and far more courageous. Communities are power if they unite and fight together.

EUDEL IN SWITZERLAND AND LIECHTENSTEIN

In what ways does your work contribute to political and social change in Switzerland and across Europe and how do you view the role of European collaboration in strengthening advocacy for LGBTQIA+ communities?

We provide information to our community, the public, and political decision-makers. We debunk misinformation and pool our community’s resources to help projects flourish across Switzerland. We greatly benefit from the experiences of other organizations at the European level in this work, as we share the same concerns. The studies and expertise from neighboring countries help us address our own gaps.

EUDEL IN SWITZERLAND AND LIECHTENSTEIN

What does solidarity with LGBTQIA+ communities look like to you in three words?

Joy – Strength - Knowledge

Muriel Waeger (she/her) is the co-director of the Swiss lesbian, bisexual and queer women organization (LOS). She is in charge of the political work, provides expertise for public administration and works on informing public and queer people about their rights. Her favourite part of advocacy was the lobbying process for the marriage equality bill in Switzerland and the organisation and execution of LOS’ annual LGBTQI+ Conference.