Emancipation policy has been both lauded and contested, with its proponents praising pro-active promotion of acceptance of LGBTI identities and its opponents often questioning the conceptualization of emancipation as a clear path to be followed and achieved when set objectives are met. Some governmental actors have even profiled themselves on the development and implementation of LGBTI emancipatory policies.

Many changes have taken place in the last several decades regarding LGBTI rights and acceptance in Europe. Many European governments have enacted anti-discrimination legislation, and some countries have legalized various forms of same-sex partnerships. Some local and national governments have also engaged in pro-active policies to promote the acceptance of LGBTI identities.

LGBTI representation in a number of media has also continued to rise.
Despite many changes throughout Europe, there are a number of issues that are cause for concern amongst LGBTIs: Many people have increasingly voiced concerns about anti-gay violence; LGBTI youth often face discrimination and bullying in schools; Trans, bisexual, and intersex issues deserve to receive much more attention; Critiques of racism and ageism in the mainstream gay and lesbian community have not received sufficient attention; The once extravagant and proud gay and lesbian nightlife seems to be withering.

Additionally, some activists and scholars have raised concerns aboutthe normalization of the LGBTI movement and community and the marginalization of queer and sexradical perspectives.