Accreditation & Certification Program
Who we are
QueerVadis is the first international LGBTQ+ Diversity, Equity & Inclusion accreditation and certification program developed specifically for the tourism industry. Launched in 2020 by Sonders & Beach, a group founded in 2002 with offices in Europe and the United States, the program was created with the support of leading LGBTQ+ associations and is based on the QueerVadis DE&I Protocol, certified by the international certification body RINA.
The Accreditation & Certification Program
In recent years, an increasing number of individuals and organizations have made genuine efforts toward greater openness and inclusivity. However, the path to achieving diversity, equity and inclusion is often complex and not always clearly defined.
While many companies express support for LGBTQ+ inclusion, gaps between policies and organizational culture can still persist. When policies are not reflected in everyday practices, organizations risk losing talent. Conversely, inclusive businesses may struggle to effectively communicate their commitment without clear and structured policies in place.
QueerVadis is committed to supporting meaningful inclusion for the LGBTQ+ traveling community worldwide.
The QueerVadis Program consists of two distinct steps:
Accreditation, which requires staff training on DE&I topics and the formal adoption of the QueerVadis Ethical Code.
Certification, which requires the implementation of the QueerVadis DE&I Protocol. Organizational compliance is verified by RINA, which certifies the business as a QueerVadis Approved Organization.
Benefits
QueerVadis Label
Show your commitment to LGBTQ+ inclusion
Web Directory
Be listed on QMagazine
Training Platform
Access dedicated DE&I training
LGBTQ+ Index
Display your inclusivity score
MKTG Tool Kit
Communicate your certification
Differences Between Accreditation and Certification
The QueerVadis Accreditation and Certification Programs together form a comprehensive framework for organizations aiming to become genuinely LGBTQ+ welcoming.
The Certification Program represents an in-depth evaluation process that verifies how organizations translate their commitment to LGBTQ+ inclusion into concrete policies and everyday practices. Certification ensures that inclusion is not only stated, but consistently implemented across operations, services and guest experience.
The Accreditation Program, by contrast, serves as a preparatory and foundational step. It is designed for organizations that are either new to LGBTQ+ inclusion or require structured support before undergoing the certification review. Through accreditation, organizations are guided in building the internal knowledge and operational readiness required for certification.
The program includes targeted training and advisory support, providing practical tools to better understand LGBTQ+ needs. Key areas of implementation may include staff training, the development of inclusive internal policies and improvements in customer service practices.
Accreditation may also support organizations in assessing and implementing necessary changes within their premises, ranging from physical adaptations, such as gender-neutral facilities, to cultural initiatives that foster an inclusive and respectful working environment.
Upon completion of the accreditation process, organizations are equipped with the skills, structures and resources needed to successfully undergo the certification audit. Together, accreditation and certification create a clear and progressive pathway toward authentic and measurable LGBTQ+ inclusion.
Certification Levels
The QueerVadis DE&I Protocol defines three certification levels, based on an organization’s level of commitment to LGBTQ+ inclusion.
Silver
Basic commitments to LGBTQ+ inclusion.
Gold
Strategic marketing and communication initiatives addressing the LGBTQ+ community.
Platinum
Active advocacy for LGBTQ+ inclusion, including membership in organizations such as ELTA, AITGL and IGLTA.
How Does the Certification Work?
The certification measures and promotes performance, transparency and accountability through a structured process illustrated in the flowchart below. Supporting materials, including documentation and media assets, are provided to support alignment with your internal processes.
Supporting Subheading
Being QV Certified by RINA Means
Trained Staff
Staff trained to interact respectfully with diversity.
Equal Treatment
No Discrimination
Zero tolerance for prejudice, harassment or any form of physical or psychological abuse.
Business Growth
Ongoing Verification
Annual audits conducted by RINA to verify compliance with the QueerVadis Standard.
Inclusive Workplace
A certified environment that values equity, wellbeing and respectful working conditions.
Obligations for Certified Organizations
Organizations applying to the QueerVadis DE&I Protocol commit to the following principles and actions:
- Adopt the QueerVadis DE&I Protocol;
- Sign the QueerVadis Ethical Code;
- Address prejudice and stereotypes;
- Promote inclusion and respect;
- Ensure safety and protection;
- Support the community in accessing inclusive accommodation and travel experiences;
- Maintain compliance through the annual certification fee.
How Does the Certification Compare to Other Standards?
QueerVadis Approved certified by RINA, is a rigorous certification focused on LGBTQ+ welfare and safety across four key areas.
Governance
Strengthen governance through clear DE&I policies addressing LGBTQ+ inclusion.
Welfare
Enhance workplace wellbeing while attracting and retaining diverse talent.
Marketing
Develop new marketing opportunities aligned with inclusive values.
Loyalty
Build trust and long-term loyalty among LGBTQ+ guests and travelers.
Comparison between Queervadis & other D&EI Certifications/Labels
| Features | Queervadis | Others |
|---|---|---|
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Accreditation&Certification Program
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Protocol validated by International Certification Body |
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Impact assessment |
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Mandatory training |
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Diversity management resources |
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Marketing&sales resources |
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D&I management handbook |
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Register of evidence |
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Media kit |
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Diplomas for attendees |
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Three available labels |
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Audit for certification assignment with third party, International Certification Body |
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Yearly surveillance audits with third party, International Certification Body |
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Networking for LGBTQ+ sales and marketing |
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Only Badge |
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Certification trade-mark available for commercial use |
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Acknowledgement by International lgbtq+ associations |
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API Widget LGBTQ+ Inclusivity index Score |
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Special discounts for marketing/sales consultancy |
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Usable for accessing UNI/ISO certification |
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RINA auditors have conducted a severe analysis on the D&I Protocol and validated it as applicable, with respect to specific norms, national and international regulations. We acknowledge the value of protocol D&I as a tool to promote, monitor and evaluate the capacity of its addressees to create a more inclusive environment, both for guests and for workers. We do believe that protocols like this are a great contribution to the thriving and improvement of the travel industry, aligned with RINA vision in terms of sustainability.
Comparison Between QueerVadis and Other DE&I Certifications and Labels
| Features | Queervadis | Others |
|---|---|---|
|
Accreditation Program
|
|
|
|
Certification Program
|
|
|
|
Protocol validated by International Certification Body |
|
|
|
Impact assessment |
|
|
|
Mandatory training |
|
|
|
Diversity management resources |
|
|
|
Marketing&sales resources |
|
|
|
D&I management handbook |
|
|
|
Register of evidence |
|
|
|
Media kit |
|
|
|
Diplomas for attendees |
|
|
|
Three available labels |
|
|
|
Audit for certification assignment with third party, International Certification Body |
|
|
|
Yearly surveillance audits with third party, International Certification Body |
|
|
|
Networking for LGBTQ+ sales and marketing |
|
|
|
Only Badge |
|
|
|
Certification trade-mark available for commercial use |
|
|
|
Acknowledgement by International lgbtq+ associations |
|
|
|
API Widget LGBTQ+ Inclusivity index Score |
|
|
|
Special discounts for marketing/sales consultancy |
|
|
|
Usable for accessing UNI/ISO certification |
|
|
|
Third part Audit |
|
|