Not only are the names of generations evolving—Boomers, Generation X, Millennials, or Gen Z—but attitudes toward lived sexuality have also undergone significant changes. Are we heading toward a truly “diverse society”?
LGBTQ+ has become the new term representing a steadily growing share of the (global) population. Particularly among Generation Z, those born after 1996, traditional gender roles are widely rejected. What is driving this shift, and what does it mean for society?
Clear Differences Between Generations
Among Baby Boomers, 95% firmly identify with traditional gender roles, with only 5% considering themselves part of the LGBT+ community. In contrast, a striking 22% of Generation Z in Germany have moved away from traditional gender roles, compared to 17% globally. According to the IPSOS Global Advisor Study “LGBT+ Pride 2023,” Germany ranks above the global average in this regard.
IPSOS suggests that Generation Z might be the first truly globally connected generation, growing up in an internet-driven world. Progressive ideas have spread—even to regions that are more conservative and often hostile, if not repressive, toward gender diversity.
Gender-Specific Differences in LGBTQ+ Acceptance Even Among Gen Z
However, gender-specific differences in attitudes toward LGBTQ+ issues are also evident within Generation Z. Among women surveyed by IPSOS, 65% support same-sex marriage, compared to just 45% of men.
The Baby Boomer generation, in this context, can be characterized as conservative and inflexible. While 43% of Gen Z are open to LGBTQ+ characters in movies and TV, only 27% of Baby Boomers share this acceptance—a sign that cultural figures like Charlie Harper have left their mark.
Note on the figures: The 24 survey says 17% for “Global” among Gen Z, 11% among Millenials, 6% for Gen X and 5 for Boomers, source here:
What Does LGBTQ+ Mean for the Future?
The increasing openness toward homosexuality and other forms of gender expression does not mean humanity is facing extinction. LGBTQ+ also embraces binary sexualities and represents a move away from traditional roles toward a more self-determined “freedom of mind and emotions.”
As Boomers age out, Gen Z will grow older, and the next generation will rise in an environment that is significantly more liberal than the society shaped by Boomers.
This cultural shift could also impact sports. For instance, consider the debate surrounding Algerian boxer Imane Khelif at the 2024 Olympics. Will future athletes be categorized as male or female based on chromosomes or their subjective self-perception? While Gen Z is far from taking over the old-guard IOC leadership, this generation is laying the groundwork for change.
