Madrid was chosen to host the IGLTA convention in 2014. The decision was made by the board of directors of IGLTA, the International Gay and Lesbian Tourism Association.
"I believe that our first convention in Spain will be an immense success. Madrid guarantees equal rights to its citizens and hosts the biggest Parade in Europe. And UNWTO (UN World Tourism Organization), our organizational partner, is based there. All of this points to a well-organized conference", says John Tanzella, president of the institution.
The choice is important for the city and the country. The economic crisis that is shaking Spain is causing opposition to the government of President José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero to gain strength. The conservatives of the Popular Party have a chance of winning the elections that take place in the country on November 20th. With this, gay marriage and other LGBT rights can be revoked.
Former president José María Aznar accuses the Zapatero government "of years of frivolity, extremism and irresponsibility."
Next year, it will be Florianópolis's turn to host IGLTA. The fair will be held in the capital of Santa Catarina in April.
