Cologne/Berlin, July 2, 2026. UFA will once again participate in this year’s Christopher Street Day (CSD) parades in Cologne and Berlin, thereby sending a clear message in support of diversity, equality, and respectful coexistence. Together with Bertelsmann’s cross-divisional employee network be.queer, sister networks such as be.queer@rtl, and other companies in the Bertelsmann Group, UFA will be represented on the float and in the marching groups.

For several years now, participating in the CSDs has been an integral part of UFA’s social commitment. As one of the leading TV and streaming production companies in the German-speaking world, UFA sees it as its responsibility to take a stand beyond its content and actively promote diversity.

Sascha Schwingel, CEO of UFA: “For us, CSD is more than just a date on the calendar. It highlights what we stand for as a company: diversity, respect, and equal opportunity. We want to help ensure that different life experiences are recognized as a matter of course—in the workplace, in our industry, and in society. I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to our Queer Ambassador, Andreas Kohnen, and the entire be.queer team for their dedication and commitment to CSD and far beyond!”

The CSD parades will take place in Cologne on July 5, 2026, and in Berlin on July 25, 2026, and are among the largest Pride events in Europe. Every year, hundreds of thousands of people participate to advocate for the rights and visibility of the LGBTQIA+ community. In addition to participating in the parades, UFA also uses its own communication channels to raise awareness of issues related to diversity and inclusion and to provide coverage of the events.

Organized by the Bertelsmann employee network be.queer, and in Cologne under the leadership of the local network be.queer@RTL, Bertelsmann and its subsidiaries RTL, Penguin Random House, BMG, Arvato, Arvato Systems, Riverty, Territory, and UFA are jointly participating in the CSD parades in Cologne and Berlin.

UFA’s commitment goes well beyond individual events: UFA works continuously to create a work environment characterized by openness, equal opportunity, and mutual respect. In close collaboration with the Bertelsmann employee network be.queer, corresponding initiatives are promoted across the Group and put into practice in everyday business life.