RFSL's history
Since 1950, people have organised through RFSL to change society. Here are some milestones in the movement’s history and how its work has developed.
RFSL’s history – a journey of change and inclusion
RFSL is founded
On 21 October 1950, the organisation that will become RFSL is founded as a Swedish section of Denmark’s Forbundet af 1948. Two years later, it becomes independent under the name Riksförbundet för sexuellt likaberättigande – the Swedish Federation for Sexual Equality.
Working for rights across borders
In 1979, RFSL becomes a member organisation of ILGA, an international association of organisations working for LGBTQI rights.
Solidarity across borders is central to this work: sharing experiences, strengthening community organising and creating space for people to drive change themselves.
Advocating for health, knowledge and respect
As AIDS comes to public attention in Sweden, RFSL advocates for information, prevention efforts and societal responsibility.
The work on HIV also becomes a struggle against fear, stigma and discrimination – and for the right to health, sexuality and respectful treatment.
Support for people subjected to violence
RFSL’s support service opens to support LGBTQI people who have experienced threats, violence and degrading treatment.
Insights from this work also contribute to knowledge and advocacy on issues including hate crime and domestic abuse. Individual support and social change go hand in hand.
Young people build their own organisation
Four young activists take the initiative to establish RFSL Ungdom. In 2003, it becomes an independent youth organisation.
Young LGBTQI people gain their own platform for community, organising and advocacy – centred on their experiences and their right to make decisions about their own lives.
Knowledge that transforms workplaces
Through RFSL Utbildning AB, workplaces receive support to improve how they treat people and how they work, through training, LGBTQI certification and organisational change.
A norm-critical approach and knowledge of LGBTQI people’s lives are put into practice to create more equal and inclusive organisations.
A stronger voice at the United Nations
RFSL is granted consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council, ECOSOC. This opens up more opportunities to participate in UN work and advocate for LGBTQI rights.
The status also helps create space for activists and partner organisations to make their own voices heard internationally.
Transformering makes information accessible
RFSL Ungdom launches transformering.se in 2010, a website providing information on trans issues, rights, healthcare and respectful treatment. Since 2017, RFSL and RFSL Ungdom have run the platform jointly.
Bringing knowledge together in one place makes it easier for trans people, those close to them and professionals to find information and support.
Newcomers builds community in more locations
RFSL Newcomers is active in 16 locations across Sweden. The network brings together LGBTQ asylum seekers, undocumented people and recent arrivals through regular gatherings, activities and advice.
Rights throughout life
Issues affecting older LGBTQI people become a priority for RFSL. Their experiences and living conditions gain greater prominence in the organisation’s work.
The focus is on challenging invisibility and vulnerability, and strengthening opportunities for community, participation and respectful treatment throughout life.
Help shape the next chapter
Change becomes possible when people organise together. As a member, you strengthen RFSL’s work for LGBTQI people’s human rights in Sweden and internationally.