Thousands marched in the Polish capital on Saturday in an Equality Parade which aimed to raise awareness about lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) rights.

People march in the Equality Parade in Warsaw. Photo: PAP/Adam Guz.

The parade's organisers said some 45,000 people took part in the event.

But police said that figure was exaggerated.

The annual parade, held for the 18th time, also aimed to advocate for other minorities, women's rights, disabled people's rights and animals rights.

People marched with rainbow umbrellas, European Union flags, and banners which read “Marriage for all, because love does not exclude”, “Smile if you're gay”, “Pride for everyone”, “Love prevails” and “Dignity, equality, tolerance”.

The march was inaugurated by the Irish Ambassador to Poland who read an open letter, signed by envoys from more than a dozen countries, including Brazil, Montenegro, Australia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina.

In the letter, the diplomats expressed support for LGBT communities in Poland and around the world.

A number of organisations, political parties and businesses also showed their support during the march. (vb)

Source: PAP