Mr Gay Europe 2018 crowned in Poland, despite protests
Pride parade through Polish city’s streets attracted hundreds of protesters
The final of this year’s edition of Mr Gay Europe took place on Saturday in the western city of Poznan in Poland, a conservative and devout Catholic country where many do not accept homosexuality.
“I hope this will help us in our fight for the same rights as those enjoyed in the rest of Europe,” said event organiser Pawel Zabilski.
Enrique Doleschy, the 30-year-old German who beat six other finalists to win the title, said the event was necessary so long as gay people are disrespected and unable to be themselves.
“As long as there’s one person feeling like this, we need competitions like this to bring out the best in people and to force them, to drive them, to be better for each other,” he insisted.
A gay pride parade was held earlier in the day to coincide with the event and attracted hundreds of protesters.
