LGBTQIA+ Rights and Local Organizations Across the World
In a world as diverse as ours, the spectrum of human experiences and identities is vast and vibrant. Among these identities, the LGBTQIA+ community represents a significant and integral part of the global population. However, the rights and acceptance of LGBTQIA+ individuals vary dramatically from one country to another, ranging from full legal recognition and protection to severe criminal penalties and widespread social stigma. This comprehensive list aims to shed light on the status of LGBTQIA+ rights across the world, offering a detailed, country-by-country breakdown of the legal and social landscape that these individuals navigate daily.
A Global Perspective on LGBTQIA+ Rights
From the progressive nations that have embraced marriage equality and anti-discrimination laws to the countries where same-sex relationships are still criminalized, the global scenario for LGBTQIA+ rights is a patchwork of progress and persecution. In some parts of the world, LGBTQIA+ individuals can marry their partners, adopt children, and live openly and authentically without fear of legal repercussions. In stark contrast, other regions impose harsh penalties, including imprisonment or even death, for same-sex relationships or non-conforming gender identities.
The Importance of Local Advocacy
In every corner of the globe, resilient and courageous advocates are working tirelessly to promote change. Local organizations are the lifeblood of the LGBTQIA+ rights movement, offering support, education, and advocacy within their communities. These groups understand the unique cultural and political contexts in which they operate, making their work both challenging and critical. From grassroots activists in Uganda fighting against oppressive anti-LGBTQIA+ legislation to organizations in Taiwan celebrating and solidifying marriage equality, these local heroes are shaping a more inclusive and compassionate world.
The Role of International Solidarity
While local organizations are deeply embedded in their communities, international groups and alliances play a crucial role in the global fight for LGBTQIA+ rights. These entities, such as Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International, leverage their platforms to draw attention to injustices, advocate for policy change, and support local organizations with resources and expertise. In a world where information is more accessible than ever, international solidarity is not just possible; it is a powerful force for change.
The Complex Landscape of Gender Identity
While much of the world’s attention has been focused on the rights of gay, lesbian, and bisexual individuals, the rights of transgender, non-binary, and gender non-conforming individuals are an equally critical aspect of LGBTQIA+ rights. In many countries, the legal recognition of oneโs gender identity is a complex and challenging process, fraught with medical, legal, and social hurdles. This list aims to highlight the countries that are leading the way in terms of gender recognition, as well as those where the journey toward equality remains steep.
Legal Protections vs. Social Reality
It is important to note that legal protections for LGBTQIA+ individuals do not always translate into social acceptance. In some countries, the law may be progressive, but societal attitudes are lagging, leading to a disconnect between what is permitted by law and what is accepted by the community. This dichotomy underscores the importance of cultural change alongside legal changeโa transformation that is often driven by the tireless work of activists and advocates.
A Call to Action
This list is not just a compilation of facts; it is a call to action. For readers in countries with robust LGBTQIA+ rights, it is a reminder of the privileges they enjoy and a challenge to not take these rights for granted. For those in less accepting nations, it is a testament to the global community that stands with them in solidarity, advocating for a world where love is never illegal, and identity is never a source of shame.
A Living Document for a Changing World
As the world evolves, so too does the landscape of LGBTQIA+ rights. Laws change, attitudes shift, and new generations rise to challenge the status quo. This list is a living document, reflecting the current state of LGBTQIA+ rights across the globe, but it is also a historical record, charting the progress and setbacks of a dynamic and ongoing movement.
Conclusion
In presenting this comprehensive list of LGBTQIA+ rights across the world and the local organizations that champion these rights, we aim to educate, inspire, and mobilize. We hope to educate readers about the diverse realities faced by LGBTQIA+ individuals globally, inspire action and support for those fighting for equality, and mobilize a new wave of advocates committed to creating a world where every individual can live openly, authentically, and free from discrimination.
๐ฆ๐ซ Afghanistan
LGBTQTIA+ rights are severely violated in Afghanistan, especially after the Taliban takeover in August 2021. According to Human Rights Watch, LGBT people in Afghanistan face arbitrary arrests, torture, sexual violence, killings, and forced marriages by the Taliban and other armed groups12. The Taliban have also issued death threats to LGBT people and their families, and have used phone tracking and informants to locate and target them12.
There are very few organizations that can support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Afghanistan, as most of them have been forced to flee or operate underground. Some of the organizations that have tried to help are:
- Rainbow Railroad, a Canadian organization that helps LGBT people escape persecution and violence in their countries3
- The International Refugee Assistance Project (IRAP), a US-based organization that provides legal assistance and advocacy for refugees and displaced people3
- The Organization for Refuge, Asylum & Migration (ORAM), an international organization that specializes in the protection of LGBT refugees and asylum seekers3
๐ฆ๐ฑ Albania
According to Wikipedia1, Albania is one of a very few countries in Europe that explicitly bans discrimination on the grounds of gender identity. However, it is also considered to be rather conservative in public reactions regarding LGBTQIA+ rights and visibility1.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in Albania are:
- Aleanca Kunder Diskriminimit LGBT (Alliance Against LGBT Discrimination)1
- Pro LGBT1
- Pink Embassy/LGBT PRO ne Shqiperi1
- ILGA-Europe2
You can also browse other non-profits in Albania on GlobalGiving3 or support LGBTQ+ rights in Africa through Action Change4.
๐ฉ๐ฟAlgeria
According to Wikipedia1, Algeria is one of the countries where homosexuality is illegal and punishable by imprisonment. LGBT persons in Algeria face legal challenges and discrimination not experienced by non-LGBT citizens12.
There are few organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in Algeria, such as:
You can also find more information on Equaldex3, a collaborative knowledge base for the LGBTQ+ movement, or support LGBTQ+ rights in Africa through Human Rights Watch4 or Action Change5.
๐ฆ๐ธ American Samoa
According to Wikipedia1, American Samoa is a territory of the United States that recognizes legal same-sex marriages from other jurisdictions since 13 December 2022, but does not allow same-sex couples to marry within the territory12. LGBT people in American Samoa face legal challenges and discrimination not experienced by non-LGBT citizens1.
The main LGBT organization in the territory is the Society of Faโafafine in American Samoa (S.O.F.I.A.S.), which organizes events and festivals, and campaigns for the betterment of the faโafafine community in American Samoa1. Faโafafine are people who identify as a third gender, typically assigned male at birth but embodying both masculine and feminine traits1.
You can also find more information on Equaldex2, a collaborative knowledge base for the LGBTQ+ movement, or Gayther3, a platform that provides LGBTQIA+ guides and resources.
๐ฆ๐ฉ Andorra
According to Wikipedia1, Andorra is a country that has recognized civil unions for same-sex couples since 2014, which grant all the benefits of marriage (including adoption)1. Discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation is constitutionally banned1. In July 2022, Andorra became the 33rd country to recognize marriage equality for same-sex couples2.
There are no specific LGBT organizations in Andorra, but there is a group called DiversAnd, which focuses on preventing and addressing bullying and discrimination in schools, advocating for transgender peopleโs rights to change their name and gender, and same-sex marriage1. It organised a pride parade in June 20191.
You can also find more information on Equaldex3, a collaborative knowledge base for the LGBTQ+ movement, or ILGA-Europe4, a European region of the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association.
๐ฆ๐ด Angola
According to Wikipedia1, Angola is a country that has legalized same-sex sexual activity and banned discrimination based on sexual orientation since November 202012. In February 2021, Angola became the sixth African country to recognize same-sex marriage23.
There are few specific LGBT organizations in Angola, but there is a group called Iris Angola, which is the first and only LGBT association in the country. It was founded in 2013 and officially recognized by the government in 2017. It provides support, education and advocacy for the LGBT community in Angola1.
You can also find more information on Equaldex4, a collaborative knowledge base for the LGBTQ+ movement, or support LGBTQ+ rights in Africa through Action Change5 or Human Rights Watch6.
๐ฆ๐ฎ Anguilla
Anguilla is a British overseas territory in the Caribbean.
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQTIA+ rights in Anguilla are limited compared to other parts of the world. Same-sex sexual activity is legal, but same-sex couples cannot marry or obtain civil partnerships12. There are no laws restricting the discussion or promotion of LGBTQ+ topics, but there is also no protection from discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity2. The Constitution of Anguilla 1982 guards the human rights of all persons within the country, but gender-based violence is still a threat to womenโs rights3.
As for organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Anguilla, there are not many options. Due to Anguillaโs small population, there is virtually no gay scene on the island. There are no gay organisations, venues, bars and clubs, or pride events1. A small protest occurred on 17 May 2011 in The Valley for the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia1. Equaldex4 is a collaborative knowledge base for the LGBTQ+ movement that provides information and resources for LGBTQTIA+ people in Anguilla and other regions. The Anguilla National Youth Council5 is an organization that represents and coordinates youth projects and addresses problems affecting youth on a national, regional or international level.
๐ฆ๐ถ Antarctica
Antarctica is a continent that is not governed by any single country, but rather by a treaty system that regulates its use for scientific and peaceful purposes. The Antarctic Treaty System (ATS) has 54 signatories, including 29 consultative parties that have active research stations on the continent1.
According to Equaldex1, LGBTQTIA+ rights in Antarctica are not explicitly defined by the ATS, but rather depend on the laws of the country that operates each research station. Therefore, the rights of LGBTQTIA+ people may vary depending on where they are located on the continent. For example, same-sex marriage is legal in some stations operated by countries like Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Canada, France, New Zealand, Norway, South Africa, Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom, but not in others operated by countries like Chile, China, India, Japan, Russia and the United States12. Similarly, other rights such as adoption, military service, discrimination protection and legal gender recognition may differ depending on the country of origin of each station12.
As for organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Antarctica, there are not many options either. Equaldex3 does not list any LGBTQTIA+ organizations in this region. Wikipedia4 lists some organizations based in Antarctica, but none of them are specifically focused on LGBTQTIA+ issues. The Antarctic and Southern Ocean Coalition (ASOC)5 is an organization that works for the protection of Antarctica and the surrounding Southern Ocean, but it does not mention any LGBTQTIA+ related topics on its website.
๐ฆ๐ฌ Antigua & Barbuda
According to various sources123, LGBTQTIA+ rights in Antigua and Barbuda have improved significantly in recent years. On 5 July 2022, the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court ruled that sections of the Penal Code that made consensual same-sex intimacy illegal were unconstitutional, and therefore void. This effectively decriminalized homosexuality in the country, and was hailed as a landmark ruling for human rights and dignity123. However, there are still challenges and barriers for LGBTQTIA+ people in Antigua and Barbuda, such as social stigma, discrimination, violence and lack of legal recognition for same-sex couples2.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Antigua and Barbuda are:
- The Halo Foundation, Inc., which is a non-profit organization that advocates and supports the underprivileged and vulnerable, including LGBTQTIA+ people. It assists 36 charitable bodies and organizations that fall under the patronage of Their Excellencies Sir Rodney and Lady Williams4.
- Human Rights Watch, which is an international organization that monitors and reports on human rights abuses around the world, including those affecting LGBTQTIA+ people. It has documented and advocated for the decriminalization of homosexuality in
- Antigua Barbuda Workers Union Youth Arm4: This is a youth organization that aims to sensitize and educate young people on various issues, including human rights, gender equality and sexual diversity. They are located in Lower Newgate Street, Saint Johnโs, and you can contact them at (268) 462-2005 or visit their Facebook page.
- Women Against Rape2: This is a civil society organization that provides support and advocacy for survivors of sexual violence, including LGBTQTIA+ persons. They were one of the claimants in the case that challenged the discriminatory laws in Antigua and Barbuda. You can find more information about them on their website.
- The Caribbean Equality Project5: This is a New York-based organization that empowers and advocates for Caribbean LGBTQIA+ communities in the diaspora and the region. They provide education, outreach, support and resources for Caribbean LGBTQIA+ persons and allies. You can follow them on social media or visit their website.
- In The Know, which is a digital media platform that celebrates diversity and inclusion, especially for marginalized communities. It has featured and supported several Caribbean-founded LGBTQTIA+ organizations, such as J-FLAG, SASH Bahamas, SASOD Guyana, United Belize Advocacy Movement, United and Strong Inc. St. Lucia and Womenโs Empowerment for Change Jamaica5.
๐ฆ๐ท Argentina
Argentina is one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly destinations in South America and the world. It was the first country in Latin America and the tenth in the world to legalize same-sex marriage in 2010, which also included full adoption rights. It also passed a groundbreaking Gender Identity Law in 2012, which allows people to officially change their gender identities without facing barriers such as hormone therapy, surgery, psychiatric diagnosis or judge approval1234.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Argentina are:
- AKAHAT, which is a non-governmental organization that works for the promotion and defense of human rights of transgender people, especially those living with HIV/AIDS5.
- Federaciรณn Argentina LGBT, which is a national federation of LGBT organizations that advocates for equal rights and social inclusion of LGBT people in Argentina5.
- Grupo Nuestro Mundo, which was the first attempt of LGBT organization in Argentina, founded in 1969. It is still active today and focuses on cultural and educational activities5.
๐ฆ๐ฒ Armenia
LGBTQTIA+ rights in Armenia are very limited and face widespread social rejection1. According to Human Rights Watch, LGBTQTIA+ people face discrimination, harassment, and violence2. Some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Armenia are:
- Pink Armenia, a community-based organization that provides services, research, and advocacy for LGBTQTIA+ people34.
- GALAS LGBTQ+ Armenian Society, a group that promotes cultural awareness and social justice for LGBTQ+ Armenians5.
- Armenia Rainbow Initiative, a coalition of activists and allies that works to advance the human rights of LGBTQ+ people in Armenia5.
- Equality Armenia, a US-based organization that aims to secure equal rights and protections for LGBTQ+ Armenians5.
๐ฆ๐ผ Aruba
LGBTQTIA+ rights in Aruba are more advanced than in Armenia. Same-sex sexual activity is legal and LGBTQTIA+ people are protected from discrimination12. However, same-sex marriage is not legal, although a recent court ruling has ordered Aruba to recognize same-sex marriages performed in the Netherlands3. Some of the LGBTQTIA+ associations in Aruba are:
- Equality Aruba, an organization that advocates for equal rights and social acceptance for LGBTQTIA+ people1.
- Equal Rights Aruba, a group that promotes diversity and inclusion in Aruba1.
- Alternative Lifestyle Federation Aruba, a federation that supports the alternative lifestyle community in Aruba1.
๐ฆ๐บ Australia
LGBTQTIA+ rights in Australia are relatively progressive, but there are still some challenges and gaps. Australia has legalized same-sex marriage, adoption, and anti-discrimination laws at the federal level, but some states and territories have different laws on issues such as vilification, conversion therapy, and gender recognition12. Some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Australia are:
- Amnesty International Australia, a human rights organization that campaigns for LGBTQTIA+ equality and safety in Australia and around the world3.
- Australian Human Rights Commission, a statutory body that promotes and protects the human rights of LGBTIQ+ people in Australia4.
- Equality Australia, a national organization that advocates for the dignity and equality of LGBTIQ+ people in Australia.
๐ฆ๐น Austria
LGBTQTIA+ rights in Austria are relatively progressive, but there are still some differences between same-sex and opposite-sex couples. Austria has legalized same-sex marriage, adoption, and anti-discrimination laws, but same-sex couples do not have equal access to fertility treatment or joint parental responsibility12. Some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Austria are:
- HOSI Wien, the oldest and largest LGBTQTIA+ organization in Austria, which provides counseling, education, and advocacy for LGBTQTIA+ people1.
- Rechtskomitee Lambda, a legal organization that defends the rights of LGBTQTIA+ people in Austria and Europe1.
- Queer Base, a project that supports LGBTQTIA+ refugees and asylum seekers in Austria1.
- The Austrian Lesbian and Gay Forum (ALGF) and Afro Rainbow Austria (ARA) for LGBT+ migrants from Africa in Austria1
- Rainbow Europe, an organization that monitors the human rights situation of LGBT+ people in Europe2
๐ฆ๐ฟ Azerbaijan
LGBTQTIA+ rights are the human rights of people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual or other sexual and gender minorities. Some of these rights include:
- The right to equality and non-discrimination
- The right to privacy and personal autonomy
- The right to freedom of expression and association
- The right to health and bodily integrity
- The right to marry and form a family
- The right to education and work
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Azerbaijan are:
- Nefes LGBT Azerbaijan Alliance, an organization that advocates for the rights and well-being of LGBTQTIA+ people in Azerbaijan1.
- Gender and Development, a non-governmental organization that promotes gender equality and human rights in Azerbaijan1.
- Minority Azerbaijan Magazine, an online magazine that covers the issues and stories of LGBTQTIA+ people in Azerbaijan1.
- Gay.az, the first information portal for LGBT people in Azerbaijan1
- Love Is Love, an online photo campaign designed to provide support to the LGBT community in Azerbaijan1
- Gender and Development, an organization that carries out local projects in collaboration with the Ministry of Health1
- Equaldex, a website that provides information on the legal status and rights of LGBT people in different countries2
- Human Rights Watch, an international organization that monitors and advocates for human rights, including LGBT rights3
๐ง๐ธ Bahamas
Here are some facts about LGBTQTIA+ rights in the Bahamas:
- Same-sex relationships are legal since 1991, but have a higher age of consent (18) than opposite-sex ones (16) 1.
- Same-sex marriages and civil unions are not legal, and the constitution defines marriage as between a man and a woman 1.
- There is no anti-discrimination law that protects LGBTQTIA+ people from discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity 2.
- Gender-based violence is a serious issue that affects womenโs human rights, and there is no specific law that addresses domestic violence or sexual harassment 3.
Here are some organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in the Bahamas:
- Errol and Nancyโs Place: A safe space for LGBTQTIA+ people in Nassau that provides free private parking, counseling, and support services 4.
- Rainbow Alliance of The Bahamas: A non-governmental organization that advocates for the human rights of LGBTQTIA+ people and promotes social change through education, community outreach, and activism 5.
- Bahamas Transgender Intersex United: A grassroots organization that empowers transgender and intersex people to live authentically and access health care, education, employment, and legal services 5.
๐ง๐ญ Bahrain
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQTIA+ people living in Bahrain face legal challenges and discrimination not experienced by non-LGBTQTIA+ residents. Vague laws against indecency are used to target gender and sexual minorities. Discussion of homosexuality has also been allowed in Bahrain since the 1990s.
According to Equaldex2, homosexuality is legal in Bahrain, but same-sex marriage, adoption, and military service are not. There is no anti-discrimination law or legal gender recognition for transgender people.
I could not find any specific organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Bahrain, but there is a website called Arab.org3 that lists some NGOs in Bahrain that may have some relevance to your interest. You can also check out the Ministry of Culture and Information4 which is located near you and may have some information on cultural diversity and inclusion.
๐ง๐ฉ Bangladesh
LGBTQTIA+ rights in Bangladesh:
- Homosexuality is illegal under Section 377 of the Bangladeshi Penal Code, which dates back to the colonial era. The penalty is up to life in prison with hard labor and fines 1.
- Same-sex marriages and civil unions are not recognized, and there is no anti-discrimination law that protects LGBTQTIA+ people from discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity 2.
- Transgender people face harassment, violence, and discrimination in accessing health care, education, employment, and legal services. They are also often denied identity documents that reflect their gender identity 3.
Here are some organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Bangladesh:
- Boys of Bangladesh: The largest network of self-identified Bangladeshi gay men. It is a non-formal group that provides a safe space, peer support, and advocacy for gay rights 45.
- Bandhu Social Welfare Society: A non-governmental organization that works for the well-being and human rights of sexual minorities and gender-diverse people in Bangladesh 6.
- Roopbaan: A community-based platform that promotes freedom of expression and social inclusion of LGBTQTIA+ people. It publishes the first LGBTQTIA+ magazine in Bangladesh 6.
๐ง๐ง Barbados
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQTIA+ people in Barbados do not enjoy the same rights as non-LGBTQTIA+ people. However, in December 2022, the courts ruled Barbadosโ laws against buggery and โgross indecencyโ were unconstitutional and struck them from the Sexual Offences Act123.
According to Equaldex4, homosexuality is legal in Barbados, but same-sex marriage, adoption, and military service are not. There is no anti-discrimination law or legal gender recognition for transgender people.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Barbados are:
- Barbados Gays, Lesbians And All-Sexuals Against Discrimination (B-GLAD): It is an organization that is dedicated to create an education mechanism and open public dialogue in a supportive manor for the LGBTQTIA+ community in Barbados4.
- Pride Barbados: It is a largely celebrated collaborative initiative that consists of a committee made up of LGBTQTIA+ civil society leaders and event coordinators. The organization also made an acronym for Pride: People Respecting Individuality, Diversity & Equality5.
You can also check out some NGOs in Barbados that may have some relevance to your interest, such as the Caribbean Youth Environment Network6 or the Eden Lodge Youth Charitable Trust7.
๐ง๐พ Belarus
LGBTQTIA+ rights in Belarus:
- Homosexuality is legal since 1994, but has a higher age of consent (18) than heterosexuality (16) 1.
- Same-sex marriages and civil unions are not legal, and the constitution defines marriage as between a man and a woman 1.
- There is no anti-discrimination law that protects LGBTQTIA+ people from discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity. Hate crimes and hate speech against LGBTQTIA+ people are not criminalized 12.
- LGBTQTIA+ people face harassment, violence, and persecution from the authorities and society. They are often denied access to health care, education, employment, and legal services. They are also excluded from the public discourse and the democratic movement 23.
Here are some organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Belarus:
- Human Rights Center Viasna: A non-governmental organization that monitors human rights violations, provides legal assistance to victims, and advocates for democratic reforms 4.
- Human Rights Foundation: An international organization that supports civil society in Belarus through the Belarus Solidarity Fund, which provides direct aid to activists, journalists, workers, and others who face repression 5.
- Journalists for Tolerance: A media initiative that promotes tolerance and diversity in Belarusian society, including LGBTQTIA+ issues 6.
๐ง๐ช Belgium
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQTIA+ rights in Belgium are seen as some of the most progressive in Europe and the world. Belgium ranks second behind Malta in terms of legal, political and human rights granted to LGBTQTIA+ people on the ILGA-Europe Rainbow Index for 202312.
According to Equaldex3, homosexuality is legal in Belgium, and same-sex marriage, adoption, and military service are also allowed. There is an anti-discrimination law and legal gender recognition for transgender people without surgery.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Belgium are:
- Network of European LGBTIQ Families Associations (NELFA)*: It is the European platform of LGBTIQ* families associations, bringing together LGBTI parents and parents-to-be from all over Europe4.
- RainbowHouse Brussels: It is a federation of LGBTQI+ associations in Brussels that offers various services, activities, and events for the LGBTQI+ community5.
๐ง๐ฟ Belize
Here is a brief list of LGBTQIA+ rights and organizations in Belize:
- LGBTQIA+ rights: Same-sex sexual activity was decriminalized in 2016 by the Supreme Court1. However, same-sex marriage and adoption are still illegal2. There is no anti-discrimination law or legal gender recognition for transgender people2.
- LGBTQIA+ organizations: The oldest and only LGBTQIA+ led policy and advocacy non-governmental organization in Belize is UNIBAM (United Belize Advocacy Movement)3. Other non-profits that support LGBTQIA+ rights in Belize include PETAL (Promoting Empowerment Through Awareness for Lesbian and Bisexual Women), Our Circle (a family support group), and The National AIDS Commission4. You can also find LGBTQIA+ friendly locations and businesses on Gayther5.
๐ง๐ฏ Benin
LGBTQTIA+ rights in Benin:
- Homosexuality is legal since 1996, but has a higher age of consent (21) than heterosexuality (18) 12.
- Same-sex marriages and civil unions are not legal, and there is no constitutional protection for LGBTQTIA+ people 12.
- There is no anti-discrimination law that protects LGBTQTIA+ people from discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity. Hate crimes and hate speech against LGBTQTIA+ people are not criminalized 12.
- LGBTQTIA+ people face stigma, violence, and harassment from the authorities and society. They often hide their sexuality and identity for fear of reprisals. They also face barriers in accessing health care, education, employment, and legal services 13.
Here are some organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Benin:
- Association pour lโEducation la Sexualitรฉ et la Santรฉ en Afrique (AESHA): A non-governmental organization that works for the sexual and reproductive health and rights of marginalized groups, including LGBTQTIA+ people 4.
- CARE: An international organization that runs a country-wide program to combat gender-based violence, working with communities and local organizations to promote behavioral change 5.
๐ง๐ฒ Bermuda
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQTIA+ people in Bermuda face legal challenges and discrimination not experienced by non-LGBT people. Homosexuality is legal in Bermuda, but the territory has long held a reputation for being homophobic and intolerant. Since 2013, the Human Rights Act has prohibited discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation. Bermuda has been in the international spotlight in recent times over the legalisation of same-sex marriage12.
According to Equaldex3, homosexuality is legal in Bermuda, but same-sex marriage, adoption, and military service are not. There is an anti-discrimination law but no legal gender recognition for transgender people.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Bermuda are:
- Bermuda Pride: It is an annual Pride celebration that offers the LGBTQ+ community and allies a period of greater visibility, connection and support by producing events that inspire, educate, and celebrate diversity and inclusion4.
- The Coalition: It is an organization that informs adults about the negative impact of child abuse while empowering them to take a stand against it. It also provides support services for survivors of child sexual abuse, including LGBTQ+ individuals5.
๐ง๐น Bhutan
Here is a brief list of LGBTQIA+ rights and organizations in Bhutan:
- LGBTQIA+ rights: Homosexuality was decriminalized in 2021 by the King of Bhutan1. However, same-sex marriage and adoption are still unrecognized2. There is no anti-discrimination law or legal gender recognition for transgender people2. Some MPs have called for enacting legislation granting LGBT people some rights3.
- LGBTQIA+ organizations: There are some local groups and organizations that provide assistance and advocacy for LGBTQIA+ people in Bhutan, such as Rainbow Bhutan (a youth-led initiative)4, Pride Bhutan (a social media platform)5, and QVoB (Queer Voices of Bhutan)6.
๐ง๐ด Bolivia
LGBTQTIA+ rights in Bolivia:
- Homosexuality is legal since 1995, and has the same age of consent (16) as heterosexuality 12.
- Same-sex civil unions are legal since 2016, but same-sex marriages are not recognized 12.
- The Bolivian Constitution bans discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. Hate crimes and hate speech against LGBTQTIA+ people are not criminalized 12.
- Transgender people are allowed to legally change their name and gender since 2016, without requiring surgery or medical intervention. They also have access to free health care and hormone therapy 13.
- LGBTQTIA+ people face social stigma, violence, and harassment from the authorities and society. They also face barriers in accessing education, employment, and legal services 13.
Here are some organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Bolivia:
- Coordinadora de la Mujer: A non-governmental organization that works for the empowerment and rights of women and LGBTQTIA+ people. It implements a project funded by the UN Democracy Fund to enhance the leadership and advocacy skills of the Bolivian LGBTQTIA+ community 4.
- GlobalGiving: An online platform that connects donors with local non-profits in Bolivia, including some that work for LGBTQTIA+ rights and well-being 5.
๐ง๐ฆ Bosnia & Herzegovina
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQTIA+ people in Bosnia and Herzegovina may face legal challenges not experienced by non-LGBTQTIA+ residents. Both male and female same-sex sexual activity are legal in Bosnia and Herzegovina, but same-sex couples and households headed by same-sex couples are not eligible for the same legal protections available to opposite-sex married couples1.
According to Equaldex2, homosexuality is legal in Bosnia and Herzegovina, but same-sex marriage, adoption, and military service are not. There is no anti-discrimination law or legal gender recognition for transgender people.
According to Human Rights Watch3, the holding of its first LGBTQTIA+ Pride in 2019 was a welcome development, even though lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people continue to face discrimination and violence. The 2021-2024 Action Plan for the Promotion of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms of LGBTQTIA+ People in Bosnia and Herzegovina was adopted in July 2022, after more than a year of waiting4.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Bosnia and Herzegovina are:
- Sarajevo Open Centre (SOC): It is an independent feminist civil society organization that advocates for the full respect of human rights and social inclusion of LGBTI people and women.
- CURE Foundation: It is a feminist activist organization that works on empowering girls and women through education, art, and activism.
๐ง๐ผ Botswana
Here is a brief list of LGBTQIA+ rights and organizations in Botswana:
- LGBTQIA+ rights: Both female and male same-sex sexual acts have been legal in Botswana since 2019 after a unanimous ruling by the High Court of Botswana1. The ruling was upheld by the Court of Appeals in 2021, making Botswana one of the few African countries that recognizes the rights and dignity of its sexual minorities23. However, same-sex marriage and adoption are still not recognized1. There is no anti-discrimination law or legal gender recognition for transgender people1.
- LGBTQIA+ organizations: The main LGBTQIA+ organization in Botswana is LEGABIBO (Lesbians, Gays and Bisexuals of Botswana), which was registered in 2016 after a legal battle with the government1. LEGABIBO provides support, advocacy and education for LGBTQIA+ people and allies in Botswana. Other organizations that work on LGBTQIA+ issues in Botswana include Rainbow Identity Association (a transgender rights group), BONELA (Botswana Network on Ethics, Law and HIV/AIDS), and Ditshwanelo (the Botswana Centre for Human Rights).
๐ง๐ท Brazil
Here is a brief list of LGBTQIA+ rights and organizations in Brazil:
- LGBTQIA+ rights: Brazil ranks among the highest in the world for LGBTQIA+ rights1. Same-sex couples have enjoyed the same rights as heterosexual ones since 2013, including marriage and adoption1. There is also anti-discrimination law and legal gender recognition for transgender people2. However, Brazil also has a high rate of violence and hate crimes against LGBTQIA+ people1.
- LGBTQIA+ organizations: There are many organizations that support and advocate for LGBTQIA+ rights in Brazil, such as TODXS (a non-profit social startup that promotes LGBTQIA+ inclusion)3, ABGLT (the Brazilian Association of Gays, Lesbians, Bisexuals, Transvestites and Transsexuals), Grupo Gay da Bahia (the oldest LGBTQIA+ organization in Brazil), and All Out (an international organization that campaigns for LGBTQIA+ rights in Brazil and other countries).
๐ฎ๐ด British Indian Ocean Territory
According to the web search results, same-sex marriage has been legal in the British Indian Ocean Territory since 3 June 20141. However, there is no information about other LGBTQTIA+ rights or organizations in the territory23. This may be because the territory is not permanently inhabited and is administered by the UK
๐ป๐ฌ British Virgin Islands
- LGBTQTIA+ rights in the British Virgin Islands are relatively restricted as compared with most Western countries, including the United Kingdom12.
- Same-sex sexual activity has been legal since 2001, but there is no recognition of same-sex unions, no adoption rights for same-sex couples, and no anti-discrimination laws covering sexual orientation or gender identity13.
- The British Virgin Islands signed the UN declaration on sexual orientation and gender identity in 2008, but the UK is responsible for its defence4.
- There are no LGBTQTIA+ organizations in the British Virgin Islands according to Equaldex5, but there is a non-profit foundation called Unite BVI that works on various causes, including community enrichment6.
๐ง๐ณ Brunei
According to the web search results, LGBTQTIA+ persons in Brunei face severe challenges and discrimination12. Homosexuality is illegal and punishable by death by stoning, imprisonment, whipping or caning123. There is no legal recognition or protection for same-sex couples, transgender people, or intersex people3. There are very few NGOs that focus on LGBTQTIA+ issues in Brunei, and they may face legal and social obstacles
๐ง๐ฌ Bulgaria
- LGBTQTIA+ rights in Bulgaria are also relatively restricted as compared with most Western countries, including the European Union12.
- Same-sex sexual activity has been legal since 1968, but there is no recognition of same-sex unions, no adoption rights for same-sex couples, and limited anti-discrimination laws covering sexual orientation or gender identity13.
- Bulgaria signed the UN declaration on sexual orientation and gender identity in 2008, but it has not ratified the European Convention on Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms2.
- There are several LGBTQTIA+ organizations in Bulgaria, such as Bilitis Resource Center, LGBT Deystvie, GLAS Foundation, Single Step Foundation, LGBT Plovdiv, and Sofia Pride Foundation456.
๐ง๐ซ Burkina Faso
According to Wikipedia1, same-sex sexual acts are legal in Burkina Faso, but LGBTQIA+ persons face discrimination and stigma in society. There is no legal recognition of same-sex relationships, no anti-discrimination laws protecting LGBTQIA+ people, and no laws allowing transgender people to change their legal gender2. The legislation also includes a vague term of โpublic nuisanceโ, which can be used against LGBTQIA+ persons3.
There are no official LGBTQIA+ organizations in Burkina Faso, but some exist unofficially. There are also some international organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in Africa, such as Outright International4. You can also check out GlobalGiving5 for a list of non-profits working in Burkina Faso on various issues.
๐ง๐ฎ Burundi
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQTIA+ rights in Burundi are very limited and same-sex sexual activity is criminalized with up to two years in prison and a fine. In 2021, prosecutors charged 24 people with engaging in same-sex acts and inciting homosexuality in others2. Human Rights Watch reported that the law passed in 2009 was a severe setback for the LGBTQTIA+ community in Burundi, who faced discrimination, violence and stigma3.
Finding LGBTQTIA+ organizations in Burundi is not easy, as there is little or no acceptance in the general society4. However, some international NGOs and nonprofits may offer some support or advocacy for LGBTQTIA+ rights in Burundi, such as GlobalGiving5 or Cordaid6. You can check their websites for more information.
๐ฐ๐ญ Cambodia
According to Wikipedia1, same-sex sexual activity is legal in Cambodia, but same-sex marriage is not2. Cambodia provides no anti-discrimination protections for LGBTQIA+ people, nor does it prohibit hate crimes based on sexual orientation and gender identity1. However, the UN has praised Cambodia for its efforts to fully integrate LGBT people into society, and protect them from violence and discrimination3.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in Cambodia are:
- Oxfam: This is an international confederation of charitable organizations that works to end poverty and injustice around the world. It leads the Voice programme in Cambodia, which offers grants to a wide range of organizations and projects that can amplify and connect LGBTQIA+ voices, as well as the voices of other marginalized groups4.
- OHCHR: This is the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights. It monitors and reports on human rights violations and advocates for the promotion and protection of human rights for all. It has a country office in Cambodia that works on various issues, including LGBTQIA+ rights5.
- SafespaceBTB: This is a local organization that provides a safe space for LGBTQIA+ people in Battambang, Cambodia. It organizes events, workshops, and activities to raise awareness and empower LGBTQIA+ individuals and communities6.
๐จ๐ป Cape Verde
. I can only provide you with some information and links from the web search results. Here are some of the LGBTQTIA+ rights in Cape Verde:
- Legalization of same-sex sexual activity
- Ban on employment discrimination based on sexual orientation
- Membership in the UN LGBTI Core Group
Here are some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Cape Verde:
- Arco Iris
- Pan-African ILGA
- Cape Verde Foundation
๐จ๐ฒ Cameroon
LGBTQTIA+ rights in Cameroon are very limited and LGBTQTIA+ people face legal challenges, stigmatization and violence. Some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Cameroon are:
- Alternatives-Cameroun, which provides advocacy, health care and shelter for LGBTQTIA+ people
- Cameroonian Foundation for AIDS (CAMFAIDS), which monitors and documents human rights violations against LGBTQTIA+ people
๐จ๐ฆ Canada
According to my search results, LGBTQTIA+ rights in Canada are some of the most extensive in the world. Same-sex sexual activity, marriage, adoption, military service and anti-discrimination laws are all legal and protected in Canada123. Canada also supports the human rights of LGBTQTIA+ people globally4. Some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Canada are:
- Egale Canada, which is Canadaโs leading organization for 2SLGBTQI people and issues, and provides research, education, awareness and advocacy5
- PFLAG Canada, which is a national charitable organization that offers peer-to-peer support for 2SLGBTQI people and their families6
- Health Initiative for Men (HIM), which is a non-profit society that aims to strengthen the health and well-being of gay men in British Columbia6
๐ฎ๐จ Canary Islands
- LGBTQTIA+ rights in the Canary Islands are the same as in Spain, which is one of the most progressive countries in the world in terms of LGBTQTIA+ rights12.
- The Canary Islands have laws that ban all anti-gay discrimination, allow same-sex marriage and adoption, and recognise transgender peopleโs right to change their legal gender12.
- Some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in the Canary Islands are:
- The Gay Canaries, an online guide to the LGBT community in the Canary Islands3
- Gayther LGBTQIA+, a platform that provides services, tools and businesses for the LGBTQIA+ community4
- Turismo de Islas Canarias, the public company that promotes tourism in the Canary Islands and expresses its commitment to LGBTQIA+ visitors5
๐ฐ๐พ Cayman Islands
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQTIA+ persons in the Cayman Islands may face legal challenges not experienced by non-LGBTQTIA+ residents. However, there are no laws restricting the discussion or promotion of LGBTQ+ topics2. Some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in the Cayman Islands are:
- Cayman LGBTQ Foundation: A foundation that helps the Cayman Islands community of persons of all genders and provides counseling, live coaching, health services, etc.3
- Colours Cayman: The first legally recognized LGBTQ+ NPO in Cayman4.
- Caring for Life Foundation: A foundation that helps to improve the quality of life for people living with HIV/AIDS5.
๐จ๐ซ Central African Republic
According to Wikipedia1, the Central African Republic is one of the few African states that signed a joint statement at the United Nations, condemning violence and discrimination against LGBTQTIA+ people. However, LGBTQTIA+ persons face stigmatization among the broader population1.
Equaldex2 provides a summary of the legal status and rights of LGBTQTIA+ people in the Central African Republic, such as:
- Homosexuality: Legal
- Same-sex marriage: Not legal
- Adoption: Single only
- Military service: No information
- Discrimination protections: None
- Gender identity: No information
- Blood donation: No information
- Age of consent: Equal
I could not find any specific organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in the Central African Republic, but there are some global or regional ones that may be relevant, such as:
- Action Change (Formerly GVI Trust)3: Fighting for LGBTQ+ Rights in Africa
- Equaldex4: A collaborative knowledge base for the LGBTQ+ movement
๐น๐ฉ Chad
According to my search, LGBTQTIA+ rights in Chad are very limited and challenging. Here are some key points:
- Both male and female same-sex sexual activity is illegal in Chad and can be punished by up to three years in prison and a fine1.
- Homosexual activity between adults was never criminalised before the new penal code took effect in August 20171.
- There is a strong opposition to LGBTQIA+ rights in Chad, based on limited public opinion data. Only 13% of people perceive their local area as a โgood placeโ for gay and lesbian people2.
- The UN Human Rights Office has a country office in Chad since 2018, which advises and assists the Chadian Government in the development and implementation of human rights and gender policies, strategies, programs and measures3.
๐จ๐ฑ Chile
LGBTQTIA+ rights in Chile have advanced significantly in the 21st century and are now quite progressive1. However, there are still some challenges and discrimination faced by LGBTQTIA+ people2. Some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Chile are:
- Movilh: A human rights organization that advocates for the rights of sexual minorities in Chile1.
- Fundaciรณn Iguales: A foundation that promotes equal rights and social inclusion for LGBTQTIA+ people in Chile3.
- OTD Chile: An organization that defends the rights of transgender and diverse people in Chile3.
๐จ๐ณ China
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQTIA+ rights in China are complex, as Chinese culture does not stigmatize homosexuality, but there is no legal recognition of same-sex relationships or anti-discrimination laws. Transgender people are allowed to change their legal gender after sex reassignment surgery1.
However, under the rule of Xi Jinping, China has tightened its control over LGBTQTIA+ content and activities, censoring LGBT-themed films, TV shows, and media, and cracking down on LGBTQ groups and platforms23. Some LGBTQTIA+ activists and advocates have faced harassment, intimidation, and detention by the authorities2.
There are some organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in China, such as:
- Beijing LGBT Center4: A non-profit organization aimed at empowering Chinaโs LGBT community
- UNDP China5: A United Nations agency that works on promoting human rights and social inclusion for sexual and gender minorities
๐จ๐ฝ Christmas Island
Christmas Island is an Australian external territory in the Indian Ocean. Here is what I found about LGBTQTIA+ rights there:
- LGBTQTIA+ rights in Christmas Island are the same as in Australia, which is relatively progressive in terms of LGBTQTIA+ rights1.
- Same-sex marriage, adoption, and military service are legal in Christmas Island, as well as anti-discrimination laws and the right to change legal gender1.
- However, Christmas Island is also known for being the site of an Australian detention centre for asylum seekers, which has been criticised by human rights organisations for its poor conditions and lack of transparency23.
- The detention centre has only four asylum seekers left, but costs $26 million a year to operate2.
- The Australian Human Rights Commission has called for the shutdown of the Christmas Island detention facilities and the transfer of the remaining detainees to the mainland or a third country3
๐จ๐จ Cocos Islands
LGBTQTIA+ rights in the Cocos Islands are not very well documented or recognized. The Cocos Islands are an Australian territory, but they have their own local laws and customs1. Homosexuality is not illegal, but same-sex marriage is outlawed2. There is no evidence of any LGBTQTIA+ organizations or groups operating in the Cocos Islands3. However, there are some regional organizations that may offer support or advocacy for LGBTQTIA+ people in the Cocos Islands, such as:
- Sunshine Coast Pride Network: A network that helps the LGBTQTIA+ community on the Sunshine Coast, Australia, to network, support and band together4.
- The Caribbean Equality Project: A project that empowers and advocates for the Caribbean LGBTQ+ community in New York City and the Caribbean region5.
๐จ๐ด Colombia
According to Wikipedia1, Colombia is one of the most progressive countries in Latin America in terms of LGBTQTIA+ rights. It has legalized same-sex marriage, adoption, and joint property rights for same-sex couples, as well as anti-discrimination laws and gender identity recognition1.
However, LGBTQTIA+ people still face violence, harassment, and discrimination in some areas of the country, especially in rural and conservative regions. According to a report by Colombian civil society organizations, there were 600 cases of violence against LGBTQTIA+ people between 2015 and 2019, including 148 murders2.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Colombia are:
- Colombia Diversa3: A national organization that works to advance the human and legal rights of LGBTQTIA+ people
- Caribbean Afirmativo2: A regional organization that works to promote the social inclusion and political participation of LGBTQTIA+ people
- Santamarรญa Foundation2: A national organization that works to prevent and address violence against LGBTQTIA+ people
๐ฐ๐ฒ Comoros
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQTIA+ rights in Comoros are very limited and same-sex sexual activity is illegal with up to five years in prison and a fine. LGBTQTIA+ persons face legal challenges, social stigma and discrimination2. There are no laws protecting LGBTQTIA+ persons from hate crimes or discrimination3.
Finding LGBTQTIA+ organizations in Comoros is also difficult, as there is no official recognition or support for the LGBTQTIA+ community. However, some websites may offer some information or resources for LGBTQTIA+ persons in Comoros, such as Equaldex4, arab.org5 or NGO Explorer6. You can check their websites for more details.
๐จ๐ฌ Congo – Brazzaville
The Republic of the Congo, also known as Congo-Brazzaville, is a country in Central Africa. Here is what I found about LGBTQTIA+ rights there:
- Both male and female same-sex sexual activity is legal in the Republic of the Congo, and has never been criminalised12.
- However, there is no legal recognition of same-sex couples or households, and no anti-discrimination laws or the right to change legal gender23.
- LGBTQTIA+ people face a high level of discrimination and abuses in the Republic of the Congo, especially from religious groups and traditional leaders2.
- The Republic of the Congo should not be confused with the Democratic Republic of the Congo, which is a neighbouring country with a different legal and social situation for LGBTQTIA+ people4.
๐จ๐ฉ Congo – Kinshasa
Republic of the Congo. I assume you are referring to the former, also known as Congo – Kinshasa. LGBTQTIA+ rights in Congo – Kinshasa are not very well protected or respected. Same-sex sexual activity is legal, but LGBTQTIA+ people face discrimination, harassment, violence and stigma1. There are no anti-discrimination laws or recognition of same-sex relationships1. Some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Congo – Kinshasa are:
- Rainbow Sunrise Mapambazuko: A human rights organization that works for the promotion and protection of LGBTQTIA+ rights in Congo – Kinshasa2.
- Jeunialissime: A youth organization that advocates for the rights and well-being of LGBTQTIA+ people in Congo – Kinshasa2.
- African Men for Sexual Health and Rights (AMSHeR): A regional coalition of organizations that works to promote the health and human rights of men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender people in Africa2.
๐จ๐ฐ Cook Islands
According to Wikipedia1, the Cook Islands is a self-governing island country in free association with New Zealand. It has a population of about 17,000 people and a mixed legal system based on English common law and customary law1.
LGBTQTIA+ rights in the Cook Islands are evolving, as the country recently decriminalized homosexual acts between men on 1 June 2023, after a vote by the Parliament of the Cook Islands23. Female homosexual acts have never been illegal, but same-sex marriage is outlawed2.
The only LGBTQTIA+ advocacy group in the Cook Islands is the Te Tiare Association, which officially launched in June 2008, and encourages debates on the issue and has organised events with the aim of raising awareness of the lives of LGBTQTIA+ people24.
๐จ๐ท Costa Rica
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQTIA+ rights in Costa Rica have evolved significantly in the past decades. Same-sex sexual relations have been legal since 1971 and same-sex marriage and adoption became legal in 2020. LGBTQTIA+ persons are also protected from discrimination and hate crimes by law12.
There are many LGBTQTIA+ organizations in Costa Rica that offer support, advocacy and resources for the LGBTQTIA+ community, such as Costa Rica LGBTIQ Chamber of Commerce3, People in Need4 or Outright International5. You can check their websites for more information.
๐ญ๐ท Croatia
Croatia is a country in Southeast Europe and a member of the European Union. Here is what I found about LGBTQTIA+ rights there:
- LGBTQTIA+ rights in Croatia have expanded in recent years, but LGBTQTIA+ people may still face some legal and social challenges1.
- Same-sex sexual activity is legal in Croatia since 1977, and the age of consent is equal to that of heterosexual activity since 1998213.
- Anti-discrimination laws protect LGBTQTIA+ people from discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity in various areas, such as employment, education, health care, and hate crimes213.
- Same-sex relationships are recognized in Croatia since 2003 under a law dealing with unregistered cohabitations, and since 2014 under a law that grants life partnerships similar rights to marriage, except for joint adoption213.
- Life partners can adopt the biological or adopted child of their partner after their death, and can jointly foster children since 202021.
- Transgender people can change their legal gender in Croatia, but they need to undergo medical procedures and obtain a court order1.
๐จ๐บ Cuba
LGBTQTIA+ rights in Cuba have significantly advanced in the 21st century, especially after the 2022 Cuban Family Code referendum, which legalized same-sex marriage, adoption and surrogacy12. However, LGBTQTIA+ people still face some challenges and repression, such as police harassment, discrimination and censorship34. Some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Cuba are:
- CENESEX: The National Center for Sex Education, a government-funded institution that promotes sexual health and education, as well as LGBTQTIA+ rights1.
- Cubalex: A legal information center that provides free legal assistance to human rights defenders, including LGBTQTIA+ activists4.
- The Caribbean Equality Project: A project that empowers and advocates for the Caribbean LGBTQ+ community in New York City and the Caribbean region5.
๐จ๐ผ Curaรงao
According to Wikipedia1, Curaรงao is a constituent country of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in the Caribbean Sea. It has a population of about 160,000 people and a legal system based on Dutch civil law1.
LGBTQTIA+ rights in Curaรงao are relatively advanced, as the country recognizes same-sex marriage, adoption, and anti-discrimination laws since 2012, following the extension of the Dutch Marriage Act to the island12. However, some LGBTQTIA+ people still face social stigma and prejudice in some parts of the society1.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Curaรงao are:
- Curaรงao Pride3: An annual celebration of diversity, inclusivity, and love on the island
- Nos Centro / Our Center4: A community center that provides information, support, and activities for LGBTQTIA+ people and their allies
- Caribbean Housing5: A housing service that offers affordable and safe accommodation for LGBTQTIA+ youth
๐จ๐พ Cyprus
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQIA+ persons in Cyprus face legal challenges not experienced by non-LGBTQIA+ residents. However, some progress has been made, such as legalizing civil unions in 2015 and receiving recommendations from the UN to combat discrimination and violence in 20191. Equaldex2 provides a summary of the legal status of LGBTQIA+ rights in Cyprus, such as the prohibition of censorship and employment discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
There are also some LGBTQIA+ organizations and communities in Cyprus that support LGBTQIA+ rights, such as Accept – LGBTI Cyprus3, which is a member of ILGA-Europe, and Queer Cyprus Association4, which is based in the northern part of the island. For the first time in Cyprus, these two organizations joined forces for a Pride march in 20224.
๐จ๐ฟ Czechia (Czech Republic)
According to my search, some of the LGBTQIA+ rights in Czechia are:
- Legalization of same-sex registered partnerships since 20061
- Equal age of consent since 19902
- Anti-discrimination laws in employment and other areas since 20093
- Right to change legal gender after surgery since 19982
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in Czechia are:
- Prague Pride, which organizes the annual pride festival and other events4
- PROUD, which advocates for legal and social equality of LGBTQIA+ people4
- Trans*parent, which provides support and information for transgender people4
๐ฉ๐ฐ Denmark
Sure, I can help you with that. Here are some facts and links about LGBTQTIA+ rights and organizations in Denmark:
- Denmark ranks among the highest in the world for LGBTQTIA+ rights1 and was the third most LGBT+ friendly country in Europe in 20232.
- Denmark was the first country to establish registered partnership for same-sex couples in 19891 and legalized same-sex marriage in 20123.
- Denmark also protects LGBTQTIA+ people from discrimination, hate crimes, and harassment, and allows them to serve openly in the military, adopt children, and change their legal gender3.
- Some of the LGBTQTIA+ organizations in Denmark are LGBT+ Danmark4, LGBT Asylum5, LGBT Ungdom5, and Sabaah5.
๐ฉ๐ฏ Djibouti
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQIA+ persons in Djibouti face legal challenges not experienced by non-LGBTQIA+ residents. LGBT persons face stigmatization among the broader population1. Equaldex2 provides a summary of the legal status of LGBTQIA+ rights in Djibouti, such as the illegality of homosexuality and the lack of protection from discrimination and hate crimes. Djibouti is ranked as one of the worst countries for LGBTQIA+ rights by the Asher & Lyric LGBTQIA+ Travel Safety Index3.
๐ฉ๐ฒ Dominica
I see. Dominica is one of the countries in the Caribbean region that has criminalized homosexuality and has no legal recognition or protection for LGBTQIA+ people1. There is a strong opposition to LGBTQIA+ rights in the country, based on religious and cultural beliefs1.
However, there are some organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in the Caribbean region, such as:
- Caribbean Vulnerable Communities Coalition (CVC), which works to advance the health and human rights of marginalized groups, including LGBTQIA+ people2
- Caribbean Forum for Liberation and Acceptance of Genders and Sexualities (CariFLAGS), which is a regional network of activists and organizations that promotes social justice and equality for LGBTQIA+ people2
- Action Change, which is a global organization that supports local LGBTQIA+ groups in Africa and the Caribbean, and provides education, advocacy and empowerment programs3
๐ฉ๐ด Dominican Republic
Okay, here are some facts and links about LGBTQTIA+ rights and organizations in the Dominican Republic:
- LGBTQTIA+ people in the Dominican Republic face legal and social challenges that are not experienced by other people1. They are not protected from discrimination in most areas of life, and they face violence and harassment from society2.
- Same-sex conduct is legal in the Dominican Republic, but same-sex marriage and adoption are not recognized13. Transgender people can change their legal name, but not their gender marker3.
- Some of the LGBTQTIA+ organizations in the Dominican Republic are RevASA4, Trans Siempre Amigas5, Amigos Siempre Amigos5, and Diversidad Dominicana5.
๐ช๐จ Ecuador
According to the web sources I found, some of the LGBTQTIA+ rights in Ecuador are:
- Legalization of same-sex sexual activity since 19971
- Anti-discrimination laws based on sexual orientation and gender identity since 19981
- Recognition of same-sex civil unions since 20091
- Legalization of same-sex marriage since 20191
- Right to change legal gender since 20162
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Ecuador are:
- Fundaciรณn Ecuatoriana Equidad (Ecuadorian Foundation for Equity), a non-profit organization that works for the human rights of LGBT people, especially in health, education and employment
- Silueta X Association, a trans-feminist organization that advocates for the rights of transgender and intersex people, especially in health, education and legal recognition
- Indรณmita, a feminist digital media outlet that covers topics such as gender, sexuality, diversity and human rights3
๐ช๐ฌ Egypt
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQTIA+ people in Egypt face legal challenges and discrimination under public morality laws. There is little public support for LGBTQTIA+ rights in Egypt12. Some of the rights that are denied or restricted for LGBTQTIA+ people in Egypt are:
- Same-sex marriage or civil unions
- Adoption by same-sex couples
- Serving openly in the military
- Legal recognition of gender identity
- Protection from discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity
- Donating blood
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Egypt are:
- Alliance of Queer Egyptian Organizations (AQEO), a coalition of three Egypt-based LGBT rights organizations3
- Bedayaa, an organization for LGBTQI+ people in Egypt and Sudan3
- No Hate Egypt, a campaign against homophobia and transphobia3
- GlobalGiving, a platform that connects donors with grassroots projects, including some that support LGBTQTIA+ people in Egypt4
๐ธ๐ป El Salvador
According to my search, some of the LGBTQIA+ rights in El Salvador are:
- Legalization of same-sex sexual activity between all genders since 18281
- Right to join armed forces, right to donate blood, right to stand in the election2
- Protection from discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in employment since 20101
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in El Salvador are:
- Red LGBTQIA+ El Salvador, a network of LGBTQIA+ and intersex activists that was launched in May 20233
- Asociaciรณn Entre Amigos, a non-governmental organization that provides health and legal services, education and advocacy for LGBTQIA+ people4
- Colectivo Alejandrรญa, a feminist organization that works for the rights of lesbian and bisexual women
๐ฌ๐ถ Equatorial Guinea
According to the web sources I found, some of the LGBTQTIA+ rights in Equatorial Guinea are:
- Legalization of same-sex sexual activity since 19631
- No anti-discrimination laws based on sexual orientation or gender identity12
- No recognition of same-sex unions or adoption rights12
- No right to change legal gender2
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Equatorial Guinea are:
- Human Rights Watch, an international non-governmental organization that monitors and reports on human rights violations around the world, including in Equatorial Guinea3
- Amnesty International, a global movement of people who campaign for human rights, including for LGBT people in Equatorial Guinea
- ILGA World, the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association, a federation of more than 1,600 organizations from over 150 countries and territories that work for the human rights of LGBTI people
๐ช๐ท Eritrea
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQTIA+ people in Eritrea face legal challenges and persecution by the government. Homosexual acts are illegal in Eritrea, punishable by up to three years in prison12. Some of the rights that are denied or restricted for LGBTQTIA+ people in Eritrea are:
- Same-sex marriage or civil unions
- Adoption by same-sex couples
- Serving openly in the military
- Legal recognition of gender identity
- Protection from discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity
- Donating blood
I could not find any specific organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Eritrea, but Human Rights Watch3 has reported on the human rights violations and abuses that LGBTQTIA+ people face in the country.
๐ช๐ช Estonia
I see. You are interested in LGBTQIA+ rights in Estonia. Here is what I found:
Some of the LGBTQIA+ rights in Estonia are:
- Legalization of same-sex sexual activity between all genders since 19921
- Right to change legal gender since 1992; no sterilization or surgery required since 19971
- Protection from discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in employment and housing since 20042
- Recognition of same-sex civil unions since 20161
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in Estonia are:
- Estonian Human Rights Centre, a non-governmental organization that promotes human rights and equal treatment, including for LGBTQIA+ people3
- Eesti LGBT รhing, a non-profit organization that advocates for the rights and well-being of LGBTQIA+ people in Estonia1
- Oma Tuba, a community center and safe space for LGBTQIA+ youth in Tallinn1
๐ช๐น Ethiopia
According to the web sources I found, some of the LGBTQTIA+ rights in Ethiopia are:
- Criminalization of same-sex sexual activity with penalties ranging from 10 days to 10 years in prison12
- No anti-discrimination laws based on sexual orientation or gender identity12
- No recognition of same-sex unions or adoption rights12
- No right to change legal gender2
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Ethiopia are:
- Rainbow Ethiopia, a non-profit organization that provides health and social services to LGBT people, especially those living with HIV/AIDS
- House of Guramayle, a non-governmental organization that advocates for the human rights and dignity of LGBT people in Ethiopia and the Horn of Africa
- Sida, the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency, which supports civil society organizations that work for LGBTI rights in Ethiopia3
๐ซ๐ฐ Falkland Islands
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQTIA+ people in the British Overseas Territory of the Falkland Islands enjoy most of the same rights as non-LGBTQTIA+ people Marriage and civil partnerships have been open to both opposite-sex and same-sex couples since 29 April 201712. Some of the rights that are granted or protected for LGBTQTIA+ people in the Falkland Islands are:
- Adoption by same-sex couples
- Serving openly in the military
- Legal recognition of gender identity
- Protection from discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity
- Donating blood
I could not find any specific organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in the Falkland Islands, but there is a category on Wikipedia that lists some related topics3.
๐ซ๐ด Faroe Islands
Some of the LGBTQIA+ rights in the Faroe Islands are:
- Legalization of same-sex sexual activity between all genders since 1933; age of consent equalized in 19881
- Protection from hate crime and hate speech based on sexual orientation and gender identity since 20071
- Recognition of same-sex marriage since 20171
- Right to adopt children by same-sex couples since 20171
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in the Faroe Islands are:
- LGBT Fรธroyar, a non-governmental organization that works for the rights and visibility of LGBTQIA+ people in the Faroe Islands1
- Amnesty International Faroe Islands, a branch of the global human rights organization that campaigns for LGBTQIA+ rights among other issues2
๐ซ๐ฏ Fiji
According to the web sources I found, some of the LGBTQTIA+ rights in Fiji are:
- Legalization of same-sex sexual activity since 201012
- Anti-discrimination laws based on sexual orientation and gender identity since 201312
- Recognition of same-sex de facto relationships since 201312
- Right to change legal gender since 201312
- Ban on gay and bisexual men from donating blood since 20171
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Fiji are:
- Rainbow Pride Foundation, a non-governmental organization that advocates for the human rights and dignity of LGBTIQ+ people, especially in the context of climate change and COVID-193
- Drodrolagi Movement, a network of LGBTIQ+ students and allies that promotes social justice and equality in Fiji
- Pacific Sexual Diversity Network, a regional network of LGBTIQ+ organizations that works for the empowerment and visibility of LGBTIQ+ people in the Pacific
๐ซ๐ฎ Finland
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQTIA+ rights in Finland are among the most advanced in Europe. Both male and female same-sex sexual activity have been legal in Finland since 1971, and the age of consent is equalized at 1612. Some of the rights that are granted or protected for LGBTQTIA+ people in Finland are:
- Same-sex marriage and adoption since 2017
- Serving openly in the military
- Legal recognition of gender identity by self-determination since 202313
- Protection from discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity
- Donating blood
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Finland are:
- Seta, an advocacy organization for LGBTIQ rights4
- HeSeta, a regional branch of Seta in Helsinki4
- Trasek, an advocacy organization for trans and intersex rights4
- Rainbow Families, an organization for LGBTIQ families4
๐ซ๐ท France
Some of the LGBTQIA+ rights in France are:
- Legalization of same-sex sexual activity between all genders since 1791; age of consent equalized in 19821
- Right to change legal gender without surgery since 20101
- Protection from discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in employment, education, health care and other areas since 19851
- Recognition of same-sex marriage and adoption by same-sex couples since 20131
- Criminalization of so-called โconversion therapyโ to attempt to change the sexual orientation or gender identity of LGBTQIA+ people since 20232
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in France are:
- SOS Homophobie, a non-profit organization that fights against homophobia, biphobia and transphobia through awareness campaigns, legal assistance and helpline services1
- Inter-LGBT, a federation of LGBTQIA+ associations that organizes events such as the Paris Pride March and advocates for LGBTQIA+ rights at the national and international levels1
- Acceptess-T, an association that supports transgender and intersex people, especially those who are migrants, refugees or sex workers1
๐ต๐ซ French Polynesia
According to the web sources I found, some of the LGBTQTIA+ rights in French Polynesia are:
- Legalization of same-sex sexual activity since 179112
- Anti-discrimination laws based on sexual orientation since 1985 and on gender identity since 201612
- Recognition of same-sex civil unions since 1999 and same-sex marriage since 201312
- Right to change legal gender since 201012
- No ban on gay and bisexual men from donating blood2
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in French Polynesia are:
- Cousins Cousines de Tahiti, a non-profit organization that provides support and information to LGBT people and their families in French Polynesia
- Fรฉdรฉration LGBTI+, a federation of LGBT associations in France and its overseas territories, including French Polynesia
- ILGA Oceania, a regional chapter of ILGA World that represents LGBTI organizations in Oceania, including French Polynesia
๐น๐ซ French Southern Territories
According to Equaldex1, LGBTQTIA+ rights in the French Southern Territories are the same as those in France, as they are an overseas territory of France. Homosexuality is legal, and same-sex marriage and adoption are allowed since 201312. Some of the rights that are granted or protected for LGBTQTIA+ people in the French Southern Territories are:
- Changing legal gender without surgery
- Protection from discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity
- Serving openly in the military
Non-binary gender recognition is not legally recognized1. I could not find any specific organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in the French Southern Territories, but there may be some that operate in France or other nearby regions.
๐ฌ๐ฆ Gabon
Some of the LGBTQIA+ rights in Gabon are:
- Legalization of same-sex sexual activity between all genders since 1960, except for a period between July 2019 and June 2020 when it was criminalized1
- Right to join armed forces since 19602
- No protection from discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in any area1
- No recognition of same-sex unions or adoption by same-sex couples1
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in Gabon are:
- Association for the Support and Defense of Sexual Minorities (ASDMS), a non-governmental organization that provides health and social services, education and advocacy for LGBTQIA+ people3
- Human Rights Watch, an international human rights organization that monitors and reports on the situation of LGBTQIA+ rights in Gabon and other countries3
๐ฌ๐ฒ Gambia
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQIA+ rights in the Gambia are very limited. Same-sex sexual activity is illegal for both males and females, and there is no legal recognition or protection for same-sex couples or transgender people. The Gambia is ranked as one of the worst countries for LGBTQ+ rights by World Population Review2.
There are not many organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in the Gambia, but some of them are:
- The Institute for Human Rights and Development in Africa (IHRDA), which works to raise awareness and increase redress on sexual and gender-based violence in the Gambia3.
- The Gambia Center for Victims of Human Rights Violations (the Victimsโ Center), which provides legal, medical and psychosocial support to victims of human rights violations, including LGBTQIA+ people3.
- LGBT Voice of Tanzania, which advocates for the rights of LGBTQIA+ people in Tanzania and other African countries, including the Gambia4.
- The Caribbean Equality Project, which empowers and supports LGBTQIA+ people of Caribbean origin and descent through education, advocacy and community building5.
๐ฌ๐ช Georgia
According to my search, LGBTQIA+ rights in Georgia (the country) are not very well protected or respected. Homosexuality is legal, but same-sex marriage and adoption are not. There is also no anti-discrimination law or legal gender recognition for transgender people12. Only 23% of the Georgian population believes that the protection of LGBTQIA+ rights is important1.
However, there are some organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in Georgia. Some of them are:
- OUT Georgia Business Alliance, which is Georgiaโs LGBTQ+ and allied chamber of commerce3.
- Pride Center at the University of Georgia, which fosters an inclusive and informed community for LGBTQIA+ individuals through collaboration, education and advocacy4.
- City of Atlanta LGBTQ Resources, which provides information and services for LGBTQ residents and visitors in Atlanta5.
๐ฉ๐ช Germany
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQTIA+ rights in Germany rank among the highest in the world and have evolved significantly over the course of the last decades. Germany has an anti-discrimination law known as the General Equal Treatment Act which protects individuals against the discrimination they may face because of their skin colour, country of origin, sex, religion, disability, age or sexual/gender identity2. Germany also has a commissioner for the acceptance of sexual and gender diversity appointed in 20213.
Some of the LGBTQTIA+ organizations in Germany are:
- Bundesverband Trans* e.V., an association of individuals, groups, clubs, associations and initiatives at regional, state and national level4.
- LSVD (Lesbian and Gay Federation in Germany), a civil rights organization that campaigns for equal rights and social acceptance of lesbians, gays, bisexuals and transgender people2.
- Queer Refugees Deutschland, a project that supports LGBTIQ refugees and asylum seekers in Germany2.
๐ฌ๐ญ Ghana
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQIA+ rights in Ghana are also very limited. Same-sex sexual activity is illegal for both males and females, and there is no legal recognition or protection for same-sex couples or transgender people. Ghana is also ranked as one of the worst countries for LGBTQ+ rights by World Population Review1.
One of the organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in Ghana is:
- LGBT+ Rights Ghana, which advocates for the freedom and dignity of LGBTQIA+ people in Ghana. The organization has created a blacklist to combat the blackmail and extortion of gay men, and has opened a safe space for LGBTQIA+ people in Accra, which was later raided and closed by the authorities234.
๐ฌ๐ฎ Gibraltar
According to Wikipedia1, LGBT rights have evolved significantly in Gibraltar in the past decades. Same-sex sexual activity, adoption and marriage are legal12. However, I could not find any specific organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Gibraltar. The closest I could find were some general charities based in Gibraltar345, but none of them seem to focus on LGBTQTIA+ issues. Perhaps you could contact some of them and ask if they have any information or connections to LGBTQTIA+ groups or activists in Gibraltar.
๐ฌ๐ท Greece
Here is a brief list of some of the LGBTQIA+ rights and organizations in Greece:
- Greece is one of the most popular LGBTQIA+ holiday destinations in the world, with a long history of same-sex relationships dating back to the Greek poet Sappho1.
- Though same-sex marriage is not legal, marriages performed in the EU have been recognised since 2018 and discrimination against sexual orientation or gender identity is banned by law12.
- Greece achieved one of the highest improvements among the 49 countries in the legal and policy situation of LGBT people in the last decade, with an overall score of 57%23.
- Some of the LGBTQIA+ organizations in Greece are: Colour Youth (an Athens-based LGBTQ youth community), Greek Transgender Support Association (a non-profit organization that supports transgender people and their rights), Rainbow Families (a group of LGBTQ parents and their children), Athens Pride (an annual festival and parade celebrating LGBTQ culture and diversity), and Thessaloniki Pride (a similar event in the second largest city of Greece)456.
๐ฌ๐ฑ Greenland
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQTIA+ rights in Greenland are some of the most extensive in the Americas and the world, relatively similar to those in Denmark proper in Europe. Some of the rights include:
- Legal same-sex sexual activity
- Same-sex marriage and adoption
- Anti-discrimination laws
- Legal gender change without medical intervention
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Greenland are:
- LGBT Qaamaneq2, a Greenlandic LGBT association
- GlobalGiving Atlas3, a database of NGOs, including charities and nonprofits in Denmark and Greenland
- Samtรถkin ’782, an Icelandic LGBT organization that also operates in Greenland
๐ฌ๐ฉ Grenada
According to Wikipedia1, homosexuality is illegal in Grenada proper, and punishable by imprisonment for ten years. However, there are some organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in Grenada, such as:
- Human Rights Watch2, an international organization that defends and protects human rights, including LGBTQIA+ rights.
- Equaldex3, a collaborative knowledge base for the global LGBTQIA+ movement that provides information on the legal status and social attitudes towards LGBTQIA+ people in different countries, including Grenada.
- The Caribbean Vulnerable Communities Coalition (CVC)4, a regional network of community leaders and non-governmental agencies that provide services and advocate for the rights of vulnerable groups, including LGBTQIA+ people.
๐ฌ๐ต Guadeloupe
According to my search results, LGBTQIA+ rights are the rights that protect people from discrimination, violence, torture and other human rights violations based on their sexual orientation and gender identity123. However, these rights are not universally recognized or respected, and many LGBTQIA+ people face challenges and hostilities in accessing health care, legal protections, education and social services1.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in Guadalupe are:
- GLAAD, which is a media advocacy organization that works to accelerate acceptance of the LGBTQIA+ community4.
- IGLYO, which is an international network of LGBTQIA+ youth and student groups that promotes empowerment, inclusion and diversity5.
- ILGLaw, which is an association of lawyers, judges, scholars and activists that promotes the development of LGBTQIA+ law and human rights5.
๐ฌ๐บ Guam
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQTIA+ rights in Guam are similar to those in the United States mainland. Some of the rights include:
- Legal same-sex sexual activity
- Same-sex marriage and adoption
- Anti-discrimination laws
- Legal gender change with medical intervention
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Guam are:
- Guam Human Rights Initiative2, a nonprofit organization that advocates for human rights and social justice
- The Caribbean Equality Project3, a regional organization that empowers LGBTQIA+ people of Caribbean descent
- UNFPA4, a United Nations agency that promotes equality in dignity and rights for LGBTQIA+ people
๐ฌ๐น Guatemala
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQIA+ people in Guatemala face legal challenges and discrimination that are not experienced by non-LGBTQIA+ residents. There is no legal recognition or protection for same-sex couples, sexual orientation and gender identity are not included in the non-discrimination laws, and hate crimes against LGBTQIA+ people are common and often unpunished23.
However, there are some organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in Guatemala, such as:
- OASIS4, an organization that promotes and defends LGBTQIA+ rights in Guatemala since 1993.
- GlobalGiving5, a platform that connects donors with local non-profits that work on various causes, including LGBTQIA+ rights.
- Oxfam2, an international organization that works to end poverty and injustice, including supporting LGBTQIA+ people in Guatemala.
๐ฌ๐ฌ Guernsey
According to my search results, LGBTQIA+ rights are the rights that protect people from discrimination, violence, torture and other human rights violations based on their sexual orientation and gender identity123. However, these rights are not universally recognized or respected, and many LGBTQIA+ people face challenges and hostilities in accessing health care, legal protections, education and social services1.
In the British Crown dependency of Guernsey, same-sex sexual activity for both men and women is legal since 1983, and same-sex marriage has been legal since 20174. Guernsey also has anti-discrimination laws, adoption rights and gender recognition laws for LGBTQIA+ people4.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in Guernsey are:
- Pride House Guernsey, which is a welcoming and safe space for LGBTQIA+ sports fans, athletes and allies at the Guernsey 2023 Island Games5 .
- Gayther LGBTQIA+, which is a platform that provides information, guides and resources for LGBTQIA+ people around the world.
- Guernsey Registry, which is a register of charities and non-profit organizations that may include some LGBTQIA+ related causes.
๐ฌ๐ณ Guinea
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQTIA+ rights in Guinea are very limited and LGBTQTIA+ people face legal and social challenges. Some of the issues include:
- Illegal same-sex sexual activity
- No recognition of same-sex relationships
- No anti-discrimination laws
- No legal gender change
- High risk of violence and harassment
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Guinea are:
- Equaldex2, a collaborative knowledge base for the LGBTQ+ movement
- Amnesty International3, a global human rights organization that campaigns for LGBTQTIA+ rights
- The United States Embassy4, which provides grants to local groups that improve the quality of life for citizens and communities in Guinea
๐ฌ๐ผ Guinea-Bissau
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQIA+ people in Guinea-Bissau face legal challenges and discrimination that are not experienced by non-LGBTQIA+ residents. Same-sex sexual activity is legal in Guinea-Bissau, but same-sex couples and households headed by same-sex couples are not eligible for the same legal protections available to opposite-sex couples12.
However, there are some organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in Guinea-Bissau, such as:
- Equaldex3, a collaborative knowledge base for the global LGBTQIA+ movement that provides information on the legal status and social attitudes towards LGBTQIA+ people in different countries, including Guinea-Bissau.
- GlobalGiving4, a platform that connects donors with local non-profits that work on various causes, including LGBTQIA+ rights.
- Amnesty International5, an international organization that campaigns for human rights, including LGBTQIA+ rights.
๐ฌ๐พ Guyana
According to my search results, LGBTQIA+ rights are the rights that protect people from discrimination, violence, torture and other human rights violations based on their sexual orientation and gender identity123. However, these rights are not universally recognized or respected, and many LGBTQIA+ people face challenges and hostilities in accessing health care, legal protections, education and social services1.
In the South American country of Guyana, homosexual acts including anal sex and oral sex are still illegal and punishable by up to life imprisonment4. Guyana is the only country in South America, and the only country in the Americas outside the Caribbean, where this is the case4. Guyana also does not have any anti-discrimination laws, adoption rights or gender recognition laws for LGBTQIA+ people4.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in Guyana are:
- The Society Against Sexual Orientation Discrimination (SASOD), which is a human rights organization that advocates for equality and justice for LGBTQIA+ people in Guyana45.
- The Caribbean Equality Project (CEP), which is a diaspora-based organization that empowers and supports Caribbean LGBTQIA+ people and their allies through education, advocacy and community-building.
- GlobalGiving, which is a platform that connects donors with grassroots projects that support LGBTQIA+ rights and other causes in Guyana and around the world5.
๐ญ๐น Haiti
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQTIA+ rights in Haiti are limited and LGBTQTIA+ people face social and legal challenges. Some of the issues include:
- No recognition of same-sex relationships
- No anti-discrimination laws
- No legal gender change
- High risk of violence and harassment
- Vague vagrancy law that can be used against transgender people
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Haiti are:
- F&M LGBTQI+ Human Rights2, a global initiative that monitors and evaluates the human rights situation of LGBTQI+ people
- The Caribbean Equality Project3, a regional organization that empowers LGBTQI+ people of Caribbean descent
- GlobalGiving4, a platform that connects donors with vetted and verified nonprofits in Haiti
๐ญ๐ณ Honduras
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQIA+ people in Honduras face legal challenges and discrimination that are not experienced by non-LGBTQIA+ residents. Same-sex sexual activity is legal in Honduras, but same-sex couples and households headed by same-sex couples are not eligible for the same legal protections available to opposite-sex couples12. Moreover, LGBTQIA+ people face high levels of violence and hate crimes, especially human rights defenders34.
However, there are some organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in Honduras, such as:
- The Rainbow Association of Honduras3, an organization that promotes and defends LGBTQIA+ rights in Honduras since 2008.
- The Kukulkan Association3, a non-profit that provides health services and education to LGBTQIA+ people in Honduras.
- GlobalGiving5, a platform that connects donors with local non-profits that work on various causes, including LGBTQIA+ rights.
๐ญ๐ฐ Hong Kong SAR China
According to my search results, LGBTQIA+ rights are the rights that protect people from discrimination, violence, torture and other human rights violations based on their sexual orientation and gender identity123. However, these rights are not universally recognized or respected, and many LGBTQIA+ people face challenges and hostilities in accessing health care, legal protections, education and social services1.
In the special administrative region of Hong Kong SAR China, homosexual acts for both men and women are legal since 1991, but same-sex marriage and civil unions are not recognized4. Hong Kong also has some anti-discrimination laws, but they do not cover sexual orientation or gender identity4. Hong Kong does not have any adoption rights or gender recognition laws for LGBTQIA+ people either4.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in Hong Kong SAR China are:
- The Harmonics Choir Hong Kong, which is the largest LGBTQIA+ choir in Hong Kong that connects the city through music and spreads the message of love and diversity5.
- UNHCR, which is the United Nations agency that works to protect and assist LGBTQIA+ refugees, asylum-seekers, internally displaced and stateless people in Hong Kong and around the world6.
- Thoughtworks, which is a global software consultancy that works to build a community of allies, bust myths and normalize the LGBTQIA+ issues in the workplace and beyond.
๐ญ๐บ Hungary
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQIA+ people in Hungary face legal and social challenges not experienced by non-LGBTQIA+ residents. Homosexuality is legal in Hungary, but discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and sex is banned. However, households headed by same-sex couples are not eligible for all of the same legal rights available to heterosexual married couples1. The Hungarian government has also passed legislation that restricts the civil rights of LGBTQIA+ Hungarians โ such as ending legal recognition of transgender Hungarians and banning LGBTQIA+ content and displays for minors12. The EU has condemned this law and voted for action against Hungary3.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in Hungary are:
- Labrisz Lesbian Association: Its purpose is making the lives and issues of lesbian, bisexual and transgender women more visible, along with providing community services and education4.
- Prizma: An organization for trans rights in Hungary4.
- Hungarian LGBT Alliance: Umbrella organization uniting LGBTQIA+ organizations in Hungary. Aims to protect human rights, reduce discrimination and prejudice, increase the social inclusion and visibility of LGBTQIA+ people, and strengthen their self-awareness and identity5.
- Human Rights Watch: An international organization that monitors and reports on human rights abuses around the world, including LGBTQIA+ rights in Hungary6.
๐ฎ๐ธ Iceland
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQIA+ rights in Iceland rank among the highest in the world. Same-sex couples have equal access to adoption and IVF since 2006, and the country had the worldโs first openly gay head of government in modern times. The OECD2 also reports that Iceland has a high level of legal LGBTI inclusivity, but suggests some areas for improvement.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in Iceland are:
- Samtรถkin ’78, the National Queer Organization of Iceland3
- Trans Iceland, an organization for transgender people and their allies3
- Intersex Iceland, an organization for intersex people and their allies3
๐ฎ๐ณ India
- LGBTQIA+ rights in India: Same-sex relations are legal since 2018, but same-sex marriages or civil unions are not recognized. Legal gender recognition is possible for transgender people, but not for intersex people. LGBTQIA+ people face social and legal challenges, such as discrimination, violence, stigma and lack of health care access12.
- LGBTQIA+ organizations in India: There are many organizations that support LGBTQIA+ people in India, such as Queerythm, Bi Collective Delhi, Goodasyou, Humsafar Trust, Harmless Hugs, Sangama, Indian Aces, Sappho and Naz Foundation345. These organizations provide various services, such as counseling, advocacy, education, health care, community building and legal aid.
๐ฎ๐ฉ Indonesia
LGBTQTIA+ rights in Indonesia are very limited and often challenged by legal and social barriers. According to 1, homosexuality is legal in most parts of Indonesia, but traditional mores disapprove of it and transgender people face discrimination and harassment. There is no legal recognition of same-sex marriage or adoption, and no anti-discrimination laws to protect LGBTQTIA+ people. Some regions, such as Aceh, have implemented Sharia law that criminalizes consensual same-sex acts with harsh punishments12.
There are some organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Indonesia, such as GAYa Nusantara, which was founded in 1987 by Dede Oetomo as an association to fight for LGBTIQ rights in Indonesia34. Another organization is International Organisation for Migration, which provides humanitarian assistance and protection to vulnerable migrants, including LGBTIQ people5. You can find more information about these and other organizations by following the links below.
๐ฎ๐ท Iran
According to Wikipedia1, LGBT rights in Iran have come in conflict with the penal code since the 1930s and any type of sexual activity outside a heterosexual marriage is forbidden and punishable by imprisonment, corporal punishment, fines, or execution. The Center for Human Rights in Iran2 published a fact sheet that highlights the extreme rights violations and deadly violence perpetrated by both the state and society against the LGBTQ community in Iran. Some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Iran are:
- The Center for Human Rights in Iran3, an independent, nonpartisan, nonprofit organization that protects and promotes human rights in Iran.
- ILGA World4, a worldwide federation of 1919 member organizations from 169 countries campaigning for lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and intersex rights.
- International womenโs organizations5, such as Womenโs March Global, Womenโs Learning Partnership, and Equality Now, that have backed the protests, condemned the government crackdown and pushed for the expansion of rights for women and all Iranians.
๐ฎ๐ถ Iraq
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQIA+ rights in Iraq are very limited. Openly gay men are not allowed to serve in the military and same-sex marriage or civil unions are illegal. LGBTQIA+ people also face violence, torture and execution by vigilantes and Sharia courts23.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in Iraq are:
- Iraqueer, which aims to raise awareness and advocate for LGBTQIA+ identities in the Iraqi society1.
- Rasan, which provides legal, social and psychological support to LGBTQIA+ people in Iraq1.
- Human Rights Watch, which documents and denounces human rights violations against LGBTQIA+ people in Iraq and the Kurdistan Region of Iraq34.
๐ฎ๐ช Ireland
Here is a brief list of some LGBTQIA+ rights and organizations in Ireland:
- Same-sex marriage is legal in both the Republic of Ireland (since 2015) and Northern Ireland (since 2020)123.
- Discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity is prohibited in employment, education, housing, health care and other areas23.
- Hate speech and hate crimes against LGBTQIA+ people are criminalized2.
- Gender recognition is based on self-declaration for people aged 18 and over23.
- Adoption and foster care by same-sex couples are allowed23.
- Blood donation by gay and bisexual men is permitted after a 12-month deferral period3.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in Ireland are:
- LGBT Ireland: A national charity that provides support services, information and advocacy for LGBTQIA+ people and their families4.
- BeLonG To: A national organization that supports LGBTQIA+ youth and works to create an Ireland where they are equal, safe and valued5.
- TENI: A non-profit organization that advocates for the rights and equality of transgender people in Ireland5.
- GCN: A national media platform that amplifies LGBTQIA+ voices and stories in Ireland5.
๐ฎ๐ฒ Isle of Man
According to Wikipedia1, LGBT rights in the Isle of Man have evolved substantially since the early 2000s. Private and consensual acts of male homosexuality were decriminalised in 19921. Same-sex couples have been allowed to enter civil partnerships since 2011 and same-sex marriage since 20162. The Isle of Man also protects LGBT people from discrimination, hate crimes, and harassment, and allows transgender people to change their legal gender3. The Isle of Man police chief recently apologised for the historical mistreatment of gay men by the police4. Some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in the Isle of Man are:
- Isle of Pride5, a charity that championed equality and inclusion for the LGBTQIA+ community and organised the islandโs first Pride event in 2021.
- LGBTQIA+ Support Isle of Man6, a Facebook group for the LGBTQIA+ community looking for support from their peers.
๐ฎ๐ฑ Israel
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQIA+ rights in Israel are considered the most developed in the Middle East. Same-sex sexual activity has been legal since 1988 and LGBTQIA+ people can serve openly in the military. However, same-sex marriage is not performed in Israel and LGBTQIA+ couples face legal and social challenges2.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in Israel are:
- The Aguda, which is the national association of LGBTQIA+ people in Israel and provides advocacy, education and community services1.
- Jerusalem Open House for Pride and Tolerance, which is a grassroots organization that promotes LGBTQIA+ rights and visibility in Jerusalem1.
- Al-Qaws, which is a Palestinian organization that works to challenge social norms and create safe spaces for LGBTQIA+ Palestinians3.
๐ฎ๐น Italy
Here is a brief summary of LGBTQIA+ rights and organizations in Italy:
- According to ILGA-Europeโs 2021 report, the status of LGBT rights in Italy is the worst among Western European countries12.
- Italy does not recognize same-sex marriage, nor does it grant parental rights to same-sex couples, such as adoption and IVF12.
- Italy also lacks nationwide discrimination protections for goods and services based on sexual orientation and gender identity12.
- Some of the organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in Italy are:
- Arcigay โ This national LGBT+ organization was Italyโs first. They focus on policy work, education, and campaigns23.
- Arcilesbica โ This national lesbian organization works to promote the visibility and rights of lesbian women in Italy3.
- Famiglie Arcobaleno โ This national association represents and supports families with same-sex parents and their children3.
- MIT โ This national transgender organization advocates for the rights and dignity of transgender people in Italy3.
๐ฏ๐ฒ Jamaica
Here is a brief summary of LGBTQIA+ rights and organizations in Jamaica:
- LGBTQIA+ rights: Homosexual acts are illegal in Jamaica, punishable by up to 10 years of imprisonment with hard labor1. There is no legal protection against discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity2. The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights has called on Jamaica to repeal its anti-LGBT laws3.
- LGBTQIA+ organizations: Some of the organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in Jamaica are:
- J-FLAG: The first human rights organization in Jamaica to serve the needs of LGBTQIA+ people, founded in 199845.
- Quality of Citizenship Jamaica (QCJ): A non-governmental organization that advocates for the rights of lesbian and bisexual women and transgender people in Jamaica5.
- TransWave Jamaica: A non-profit organization that promotes the health, well-being and human rights of transgender and gender non-conforming people in Jamaica5.
๐ฏ๐ต Japan
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQIA+ people in Japan have fewer legal protections than in most other developed countries. There is no legal recognition of same-sex relationships on any government level, although some jurisdictions offer symbolic partnership certificates. Adoption by LGBTQIA+ people is ambiguous, and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity is not prohibited by national law1.
However, in June 2023, the Japanese Diet passed its first-ever law on sexual orientation and gender identity. It seeks to โpromote understandingโ and avoid โunfair discriminationโ of LGBTQIA+ people, but it does not include any enforcement mechanisms or penalties for violations2.
There are also some organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in Japan, such as Stonewall Japan, which is a community group that provides information, resources, and social events for LGBTQIA+ individuals and allies3. Another organization is Nijiiro Diversity, which is a network of companies and groups that promote diversity and inclusion in the workplace for LGBTQIA+ people.
๐ฏ๐ช Jersey
- LGBTQIA+ rights: LGBTQIA+ persons in New Jersey have the same rights as non-LGBTQIA+ people. They have the right to marry, adopt children, change their legal gender, and serve openly in the military12. They are also protected from discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in employment, education, housing, and public accommodations12.
- LGBTQIA+ organizations: Some of the organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in New Jersey are:
- Babs Siperstein PROUD Center: A health center that provides comprehensive care for LGBTQIA+ individuals and their families3.
- Edge New Jersey: A community center that offers social, educational, and recreational programs for LGBTQIA+ youth and young adults3.
- GLSEN Northern New Jersey Chapter: A chapter of a national organization that works to create safe and affirming schools for LGBTQIA+ students3.
- New Jersey Equality: A statewide advocacy organization that works to advance equality for LGBTQIA+ people in New Jersey and nationally4.
๐ฏ๐ด Jordan
According to Wikipedia1, homosexual conduct is legal in Jordan, but LGBT people face social discrimination and can be prosecuted for โdisrupting public moralityโ if they display public affection1. A new cybercrime law passed in 2023 also poses a threat to LGBT peopleโs online privacy and safety2.
Some of the organizations that support LGBT rights in Jordan are:
- LGBT Jordan: An informal group that advocates for LGBT rights in Jordan3.
- MyKali Magazine: An online webzine that covers issues of LGBT+, sexuality and gender in the MENA region3.
- Rainbow Street: A Jordanian-American organization that provides essential resources and services to vulnerable LGBT refugees in the Middle East and North Africa4.
- UN Women: The United Nations entity for gender equality and the empowerment of women, which has an office in Amman5.
๐ฐ๐ฟ Kazakhstan
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQIA+ rights in Kazakhstan are considered the most developed in Central Asia, but LGBT people still face legal and social challenges. For example, there is no legal recognition of same-sex relationships, no anti-discrimination laws, and no laws allowing transgender people to change their legal gender2.
There are only a few LGBTQIA+ organizations in Kazakhstan, mostly working in informal groups or through HIV prevention programs. One of them is Kok.team, an online platform that provides information and support for LGBT people and allies3. Another one is Feminita, a feminist initiative that advocates for the rights of lesbian, bisexual and queer women4.
๐ฐ๐ช Kenya
LGBTQTIA+ rights in Kenya are still a contentious issue, as same-sex relationships are illegal and punishable by law1. However, there have been some recent developments that indicate a possible shift towards more recognition and protection of the rights of the LGBTQTIA+ community. For example, in 2023, the supreme court of Kenya criticised the government for refusing to register an association for LGBTQTIA+ people, saying it violated their right of association2. In 2019, the High Court of Kenya was expected to rule on whether to decriminalize same-sex relationships, but the decision was postponed3.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Kenya are:
- National Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission (NGLHRC): A national organization that provides legal aid and works to change the law and policy towards equality and inclusion of LGBTQTIA+ persons in Kenya4.
- Gay and Lesbian Coalition of Kenya (GALCK): An umbrella organization that represents, supports and advocates for the interests and rights of LGBTIQ organizations and individuals in Kenya. Website
- The NEST Collective: A multi-disciplinary arts collective that creates stories from the perspectives of marginalized groups, including LGBTIQ people, through film, music, visual arts and literature. Website
๐ฐ๐ฎ Kiribati
According to the web search results, LGBTQTIA+ rights in Kiribati are limited and challenging. Male homosexuality is illegal with a penalty of up to 14 years in prison, but the law is not enforced. Female homosexuality is legal, but lesbians may face violence and discrimination123. There is no legal recognition of same-sex unions, no anti-discrimination laws, and no laws allowing transgender people to change their legal gender4.
As for the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Kiribati, I could not find any specific ones, but I found some general ones that work on sexual and reproductive health rights, such as the Kiribati Ministry for Health and Medical Services and the UNFPA Pacific Sub-Regional Office56. You can also check out Equaldex, a collaborative knowledge base for the LGBTQ+ movement7.
๐ฐ๐ต Korea, North
According to the sources I found, LGBTQTIA+ rights in North Korea are not explicitly addressed in the law12, but homosexuality is not illegal12. However, LGBTQTIA+ persons may face social challenges due to their sexuality or gender identity1. There is no official recognition of same-sex relationships, adoption, or military service for LGBTQTIA+ persons2. The government also denies the existence of LGBTQTIA+ people and condemns them as products of Western decadence1.
I could not find any information about LGBTQTIA+ organizations in North Korea, but there are some human rights organizations that monitor the situation of human rights in general in the country, such as Human Rights Watch3
๐ฐ๐ท Korea, South
Here is a brief list of some of the LGBTQTIA+ rights and organizations in South Korea:
- Same-sex sexual activity is legal, but same-sex marriage or civil unions are not recognized1.
- Transgender people have the right to change their legal sex status, regardless of whether they have underage children23.
- There is no anti-discrimination law that protects LGBTQTIA+ people from discrimination or hate crimes based on sexual orientation and gender identity1.
- Some of the LGBTQTIA+ organizations that advocate for LGBTQTIA+ rights in South Korea are: Chingusai (a gay menโs human rights group), Solidarity for LGBT Human Rights of Korea (a coalition of various LGBT groups), and PFLAG Korea (a group for parents and friends of LGBT people)45.
๐ฝ๐ฐ Kosovo
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQIA+ rights in Kosovo have improved in recent years, most notably with the adoption of the new Constitution, banning discrimination based on sexual orientation1. Kosovo remains one of few Muslim-majority countries where LGBT pride parades are held annually1. However, LGBTQIA+ people still face social stigma and discrimination1.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in Kosovo are:
- Center for Social Group Development (CSGD): A non-governmental organization that works to improve the situation of LGBTQIA+ people in Kosovo through advocacy, education and awareness-raising2.
- Center for Equality and Liberty (CEL): A non-governmental organization that promotes and protects the human rights of LGBTQIA+ people in Kosovo through legal aid, research and policy analysis2.
- ERA – LGBTI Equal Rights Association for Western Balkans and Turkey: A regional network of LGBTQIA+ organizations that aims to advance the human rights and equality of LGBTQIA+ people in the region through cooperation, advocacy and capacity building2.
๐ฐ๐ผ Kuwait
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQTIA+ persons in Kuwait face challenges and discrimination. Same-sex sexual activity between men is illegal and punishable by up to seven years in prison. No laws specifically criminalise same-sex sexual activity between women1
In February 2022, a Kuwaiti court ruled that a law that criminalises โimitating the opposite sexโ online is unconstitutional. This law has been used to target and harass transgender people in Kuwait2
I could not find any specific organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Kuwait, but there are some general human rights and charitable organizations that operate in the country, such as:
๐ฐ๐ฌ Kyrgyzstan
Here is a brief list of some of the LGBTQTIA+ rights and organizations in Kyrgyzstan:
- Same-sex sexual activity is legal, but same-sex marriage or civil unions are not recognized12.
- Transgender people can change their legal gender, but only after undergoing sex reassignment surgery1.
- There is no anti-discrimination law that protects LGBTQTIA+ people from discrimination or hate crimes based on sexual orientation and gender identity12. LGBTQTIA+ people face widespread violence, harassment and extortion from the police and society3.
- Some of the LGBTQTIA+ organizations that advocate for LGBTQTIA+ rights in Kyrgyzstan are: Kyrgyz Indigo (a group for gay men and transgender people), Labrys (a group for lesbian, bisexual and transgender women), and Bishkek Feminist Initiatives (a group for feminist and queer activists)45.
๐ฑ๐ฆ Laos
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQIA+ rights in Laos are not well-protected or recognized. While homosexuality is legal in Laos, there are no anti-discrimination laws or hate crime laws based on sexual orientation and gender identity1. Same-sex couples cannot access any of the rights that opposite-sex married couples enjoy, as neither same-sex marriage nor civil unions are legal1. LGBTQIA+ people face social stigma and government interference in Laos1.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in Laos are:
- Proud To Be Us Laos (PTBUL): The countryโs first LGBTQIA+ organization, which aims to support people with sexual and gender diversity, raise awareness and advocate for their rights2.
- UNESCO Bangkok: The regional office of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, which works to promote human rights, social inclusion and gender equality, including for LGBTQIA+ people in Laos and other countries in Asia-Pacific3.
- ILGA Asia: The Asian chapter of the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association, which is a network of LGBTQIA+ organizations that campaigns for the rights of LGBTQIA+ people across the region4.
๐ฑ๐ป Latvia
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQTIA+ people in Latvia face legal and social challenges. Same-sex sexual activity is legal, but same-sex couples cannot marry or adopt children. Latvia does not fully ban all anti-gay discrimination1
Some of the rights that LGBTQTIA+ people have in Latvia are:
- Changing legal gender (since 1996) 2
- Serving openly in the military (since 2007) 2
- Donating blood (since 2012) 2
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Latvia are:
๐ฑ๐ง Lebanon
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQTIA+ rights in Lebanon are not fully recognized and Article 534 of the Lebanese Penal Code prohibits having sexual relations โcontradicting the laws of natureโ, which is punishable by up to a year in prison1. However, there are some organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Lebanon, such as:
- Helem (Arabic: ุญูู , meaning โDreamโ in Arabic), which is the first LGBTIQ rights organization in the Arab world, officially established in Beirut in 20042.
- Human Rights Watch, which is an international human rights organization that has documented and advocated for the rights of LGBT people in Lebanon and other countries3.
๐ฑ๐ธ Lesotho
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQIA+ rights in Lesotho are not well-protected or recognized. Lesotho does not recognize same-sex marriages or civil unions, nor does it ban discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity1. LGBTQIA+ people face societal rejection and discrimination in Lesotho1.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in Lesotho are:
- Matrix Support Group: A non-governmental organization that works to empower LGBTQIA+ people in Lesotho through advocacy, education and health services2.
- The Peopleโs Matrix Association: A non-governmental organization that promotes the human rights and well-being of LGBTQIA+ people in Lesotho through community mobilization, capacity building and networking2.
- International Labour Organization (ILO): A United Nations agency that sets international labour standards and promotes decent work for all, including for LGBTQIA+ workers. The ILO has published a guide on the inclusion of LGBTQIA+ workers in the world of work3.
๐ฑ๐ท Liberia
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQTIA+ people in Liberia face legal and social challenges. Same-sex sexual activity is illegal and punishable by up to one year in prison. LGBTQTIA+ people encounter widespread discrimination, harassment, death threats, and physical attacks1
Some of the rights that LGBTQTIA+ people lack in Liberia are:
- Legal recognition of same-sex relationships 1
- Anti-discrimination laws 1
- Access to justice and protection 2
- Access to health services 3
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Liberia are:
๐ฑ๐พ Libya
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQTIA+ people are generally discriminated against in Libya and face legal challenges not experienced by non-LGBTQTIA+ residents. Same-sex sexual activity is illegal and punishable by imprisonment, flogging or death2. Libya has not signed any international treaties that protect the rights of LGBTQTIA+ people3.
There are not many organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Libya, but some NGOs that work on related issues are:
- arab.org: A directory of NGOs operating in Libya that covers various sectors, including human rights, womenโs empowerment, health and education4.
- DRL: A US government bureau that funds projects to protect survivors of gender-based violence in Libya, including LGBTQTIA+ individuals who face increased risks of violence and discrimination5.
- UN Women: A UN agency that works to promote gender equality and womenโs empowerment in Libya, including supporting womenโs participation in peacebuilding and recovery efforts6.
๐ฑ๐ฎ Liechtenstein
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQIA+ rights in Liechtenstein have improved in recent years, but still lag behind some of its European neighbors. Same-sex sexual activity has been legal since 1989, with an equal age of consent since 20011. Same-sex couples can enter into registered partnerships since 2011, which grant them some of the rights of marriage, such as inheritance, social security and immigration1. However, same-sex couples cannot adopt children or access assisted reproduction services1. Discrimination based on sexual orientation is prohibited in employment, but not in other areas of life2.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in Liechtenstein are:
- Gayther LGBTQIA+: A global platform that provides information and resources for LGBTQIA+ people, including a directory of LGBTQIA+ friendly locations, businesses and services in Liechtenstein and other countries3.
- ILGA-Europe: The European chapter of the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association, which is a network of LGBTQIA+ organizations that campaigns for the rights of LGBTQIA+ people across Europe and Central Asia4.
- InterAction: A global alliance of non-governmental organizations that works to advance human dignity and well-being around the world, including for LGBTQIA+ people. InterAction has published a guide on ensuring inclusion, safety and belonging for LGBTQIA+ staff and communities5.
๐ฑ๐น Lithuania
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQTIA+ people in Lithuania face legal and social challenges. Same-sex sexual activity is legal, but same-sex couples cannot marry, adopt children, or access IVF. Lithuania does not fully ban all anti-gay discrimination1
Some of the rights that LGBTQTIA+ people have in Lithuania are:
- Changing legal gender (since 2003) 2
- Serving openly in the military (since 2009) 2
- Donating blood (since 2015) 2
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Lithuania are:
You can visit their websites for more information and contact details.
๐ฑ๐บ Luxembourg
Sure, I can help you with that. Here are some facts and links about LGBTQTIA+ rights and organizations in Luxembourg:
- LGBTQTIA+ rights are well-protected in Luxembourg. Same-sex marriage and adoption are legal since 20151. The country has most legal protections for sexual and gender minorities among OECD countries2.
- LGBTQTIA+ organizations in Luxembourg include Rosa Lรซtzebuerg asbl, the national LGBTIQ-organization that defends the interests and rights of the local community3, and IMS Luxembourg, a network of companies that promotes LGBTI inclusion in the workplace4.
- LGBTQTIA+ places to go out in Luxembourg are Queer Planet, a monthly party for queer people and allies5, Bar Rouge, a gay-friendly bar with karaoke nights5, and Woof Luxembourg, a men-only bar with a bear-friendly atmosphere5.
๐ฒ๐ด Macau SAR China
Here is a brief list of LGBTQTIA+ rights and organizations in Macau SAR China:
- LGBTQTIA+ rights: Legal since 19971, but no recognition of same-sex relationships, no anti-discrimination laws, no adoption rights, and no legal gender change for transgender people2. The Rainbow of Macau is the cityโs first gay rights group officially registered2.
- LGBTQTIA+ organizations: There are few visible LGBTQTIA+ organizations in Macau, and most of them are informal or online. Some examples are Macau LGBT Rights Concern Group, Macau Tongzhi Society, and Macau Rainbow Association3. However, China has been cracking down on LGBTQ groups and content, especially online4. The Beijing LGBT Center, one of the most prominent LGBTQ organizations in China, closed in 2023 due to government pressure5.
๐ฒ๐ฐ North Macedonia
Here is a brief summary of LGBTQIA+ rights and organizations in North Macedonia:
- LGBTQIA+ relationships have been legal since 199612.
- LGBTQIA+ people can serve in the military, change their legal gender, and donate blood2.
- LGBTQIA+ people are protected from discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity since 201913.
- LGBTQIA+ people cannot marry or adopt children2.
- LGBTQIA+ community faces prejudice and harassment from society, media and authorities1.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights are:
- LGBT United14: works for protecting LGBTQIA+ rights in the country.
- EGAL1: works for gay/lesbian health issues.
- Subversive Front4: promotes a critical, creative, queer, non-patriarchal approach to gender and sexuality.
- Helsinki Committee for Human Rights4: advocates for human rights, including LGBTQIA+ rights.
๐ฒ๐ฌ Madagascar
According to Wikipedia1, same-sex sexual activity is legal among individuals above the age of 21 in Madagascar, but same-sex marriage, adoption and anti-discrimination laws are not recognized2. There are no specific LGBTQTIA+ organizations in Madagascar3, but there are some general humanitarian and development organizations that operate in the country, such as GlobalGiving4 and CARE5
๐ฒ๐ผ Malawi
Here is a brief list of LGBTQTIA+ rights and organizations in Malawi:
- LGBTQTIA+ rights: Homosexuality is illegal and punishable by up to 14 years in prison1. There is no recognition of same-sex relationships, no anti-discrimination laws, no adoption rights, and no legal gender change for transgender people1. LGBTQTIA+ people often face violence, threats and discrimination2. However, in 2021, Malawiโs LGBTQTIA+ community celebrated its first Pride parade, despite opposition from religious groups and some politicians3.
- LGBTQTIA+ organizations: There are few registered LGBTQTIA+ organizations in Malawi, and most of them operate underground or online. Some examples are Centre for the Development of People (CEDEP), Centre for Human Rights and Rehabilitation (CHRR), and Malawi Network of Religious Leaders Living with or Personally Affected by HIV/AIDS (MANERELA+)4. GlobalGiving is a platform that supports several non-profits in Malawi, some of which work on LGBTQTIA+ issues5. MANASO is a membership organization that facilitates civil society organizations to work together to fight against HIV and AIDS in Malawi6.
๐ฒ๐พ Malaysia
Here is a brief summary of LGBTQIA+ rights and organizations in Malaysia:
- LGBTQIA+ relationships are illegal in Malaysia, with punishments of up to 20 years imprisonment, caning, and fines12.
- LGBTQIA+ people cannot serve in the military, change their legal gender, or donate blood3.
- LGBTQIA+ people are not protected from discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity3.
- LGBTQIA+ community faces state-sponsored discrimination, harassment, and violence from society, media and authorities45.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights are:
- Seksualiti Merdeka67: organizes an annual sexuality rights festival and campaigns for LGBTQIA+ rights.
- Community Health Care Clinic7: provides queer-affirming mental health counselling.
- SEED7: supports marginalized communities, especially the transgender community.
- Justice for Sisters4: advocates for human rights, especially for transgender women.
๐ฒ๐ป Maldives
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQTIA+ persons in the Maldives face legal challenges and criminal penalties for same-sex sexual conduct and relationships2. Public opinion in the Maldives has shown a widespread rejection of LGBTQ+ rights3. There are no specific LGBTQTIA+ organizations in the Maldives4, but there are some general NGO portals that may help you find some relevant organizations, such as Maldives NGO Portal5 and NGO Explorer6.
๐ฒ๐ฑ Mali
According to the sources I found, LGBTQTIA+ rights in Mali are not well recognized or protected. LGBTQTIA+ persons face stigmatization and discrimination from the society and the government12. There is no legal recognition of same-sex relationships, no anti-discrimination laws, and no laws protecting gender identity or expression2. LGBTQTIA+ issues are considered taboo and many LGBTQTIA+ persons live in hiding or lead double lives3.
I could not find any specific organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Mali, but there are some general human rights or development organizations that operate in the country, such as CARE4, GlobalGiving5, and Association Malienne des Droits de lโHomme6. However, I do not know if they have any programs or activities that directly address LGBTQTIA+ issues.
๐ฒ๐น Malta
Malta is a small island in southern Europe that has embraced a progressive approach to LGBTQIA+ rights, becoming a beacon of inclusion and respect1. Malta is one of only five countries in the world that has made LGBT rights equal at a constitutional level2. Some of the rights include:
- Legalization of same-sex sexual activity since 19733
- Protection from discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity since 20044
- Civil unions and adoption rights for same-sex couples since 20143
- Same-sex marriage since 20173
- Legal recognition of gender identity and expression since 20154
- Protection from discrimination on the basis of sex characteristics since 20154
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in Malta are:
- Malta LGBTIQ Rights Movement (MGRM): An organisation committed to achieve full equality for all LGBTIQ people in Malta5. Website: www.maltagayrights.org
- Allied Rainbow Communities (ARC): A non-profit organisation that aims to foster a sense of community and enhance the health and well-being of LGBTIQ individuals in Malta. Website: www.arc.org.mt
- Drachma LGBTI: A group that provides a safe space for LGBTIQ Catholics in Malta to reconcile their faith and sexuality. Website: www.drachmalgbti.org
๐ฒ๐ญ Marshall Islands
LGBTQTIA+ rights in the Marshall Islands include:
- Legal same-sex sexual activity since 20051
- Anti-discrimination laws in all areas since 20191
- No legal recognition of same-sex unions2
- No adoption rights for same-sex couples2
- No military service for LGBT people2
- No legal gender change2
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in the Marshall Islands are:
- The OHCHR Regional Office for the Pacific (ROP), which works to strengthen rule of law and accountability for human rights violations, enhance and protect civic space and peopleโs participation, and integrate human rights in sustainable development3.
- The Human Truth Foundation, which ranks countries based on their LGBT rights and provides information and advocacy on various human rights issues1.
๐ฒ๐ถ Martinique
According to the sources I found, LGBTQTIA+ rights in Martinique are similar to those in France, since Martinique is an overseas region of France12. This means that LGBTQTIA+ persons have the right to marry, adopt, serve in the military, change their legal gender, and be protected from discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity1. However, there may still be some social challenges or prejudices that LGBTQTIA+ persons face in Martinique.
I found one website that lists some LGBTQTIA+ organizations in Martinique, such as Arc-en-Ciel Martinique, Fiertรฉ Martinique, and Tjenbรฉ Rรจd3. These organizations aim to promote LGBTQTIA+ visibility, awareness, solidarity, and advocacy in Martinique and the Caribbean. There are also some general human rights or development organizations that operate in Martinique, such as Amnesty International4 and NGO Explorer5, but I do not know if they have any specific focus on LGBTQTIA+ issues.
I also found a website that lists some global LGBTQTIA+ nonprofits and charities that you can support throughout the year, such as The Trevor Project, OutRight Action International, and Transgender Law Center6. These organizations work to advance gender equality, eliminate discrimination, and protect LGBTQTIA+ rights around the world.
๐ฒ๐ท Mauritania
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQTIA+ rights in Mauritania are severely restricted. Both male and female same-sex sexual activity is illegal and punishable by death2. Mauritania is one of the few countries in the world where the death penalty is officially law for homosexuality3.
I could not find any specific organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Mauritania, but I found some general ones that work on human rights, gender equality and minority rights in the country, such as:
๐ฒ๐บ Mauritius
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQIA+ rights in Mauritius are not fully recognized, but there are some protections from discrimination in areas such as employment, goods and services, etc. Sodomy is still criminalized by Section 250 of the Criminal Code1.
There are four organisations that work for the rights of the LGBT community in Mauritius: Collectif Arc-En-Ciel, Young Queer Alliance, Association VISA G and PILS1. You can find more information about them on their websites or social media platforms.
๐พ๐น Mayotte
According to the sources I found, LGBTQTIA+ rights in Mayotte are similar to those in France, since Mayotte is an overseas department and region of France12. This means that LGBTQTIA+ persons have the right to marry, adopt, serve in the military, change their legal gender, and be protected from discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity1. However, there are no laws restricting the discussion or promotion of LGBTQ+ topics in Mayotte1.
I could not find any specific LGBTQTIA+ organizations in Mayotte, but there are some websites that allow you to discuss LGBTQTIA+ rights and issues in Mayotte, such as Equaldex3. There are also some general health or social organizations that operate in Mayotte, such as Santรฉ Sud4 and MLEZI MAORE5, but I do not know if they have any programs or activities that directly address LGBTQTIA+ issues.
๐ฒ๐ฝ Mexico
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQTIA+ rights in Mexico have expanded in the 21st century, keeping with worldwide legal trends. Same-sex sexual activity is legal since 1871, and same-sex marriage is legal in 22 of the 32 states2. However, there are still challenges such as discrimination, violence and hate crimes against LGBTQTIA+ people3.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Mexico are:
๐ซ๐ฒ Micronesia
Here is a brief list of LGBTQTIA+ rights and organizations in Micronesia:
- LGBTQTIA+ rights: According to Equaldex1, homosexuality is legal, same-sex marriage is not recognized, adoption by same-sex couples is not allowed, LGBT people cannot serve in the military, and there is no law allowing transgender people to change their legal gender. However, there is an anti-discrimination law that protects sexual orientation, but not gender identity or intersex status2.
- LGBTQTIA+ organizations: I could not find any specific organization that supports LGBTQTIA+ rights in Micronesia. However, some international organizations that work in Micronesia and may have some programs or projects related to LGBTQTIA+ issues are: WHO3, UNDP3, and Human Rights Watch.
๐ฒ๐ฉ Moldova
According to Wikipedia, LGBTQIA+ people in Moldova face legal and social challenges and discrimination not experienced by non-LGBTQIA+ residents1. However, some progress has been made in recent years, such as the decriminalization of homosexuality in 1995, the right to change legal gender (with psychiatric diagnosis) since 2002, and the prohibition of discrimination based on sexual orientation in employment since 20121.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in Moldova are:
- GenderDoc-M, an information center and advocacy group that provides legal and psychological assistance, organizes public events, and publishes educational materials2.
- Peace Corps Moldova, a volunteer program that promotes health education and awareness among LGBTQIA+ youth and their allies3.
- GlobalGiving, a crowdfunding platform that connects donors with local non-profits working on various causes, including LGBTQIA+ rights4.
You can find more information about these and other organizations on their websites or on the Rainbow Europe website5, which ranks European countries on their respect for LGBTQIA+ rights.
๐ฒ๐จ Monaco
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQTIA+ persons in Monaco may face legal challenges not experienced by non-LGBTQTIA+ residents. However, same-sex sexual activity is legal and same-sex couples can benefit from a Free Union law that grants them some legal rights2. Equaldex3 provides a summary of the LGBTQTIA+ rights in Monaco, such as the age of consent, anti-discrimination laws, and adoption rights.
Unfortunately, I could not find any specific LGBTQTIA+ organizations in Monaco. Equaldex4 says there are no organizations in this region. However, there are some organizations in France that may be of interest, such as Association Hรชtre5, which is located in Mulhouse and offers support and activities for LGBTQTIA+ people. There are also some UK NGOs that work in Monaco, but they do not seem to focus on LGBTQTIA+ issues6.
๐ฒ๐ณ Mongolia
- LGBTQTIA+ rights:
- Homosexuality was decriminalized in 1993 and the age of consent was equalized in 200212.
- Discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity is prohibited by law since 201712.
- Transgender people can change their legal gender after undergoing medical intervention since 200912.
- Same-sex marriage and adoption are not recognized by law12.
- LGBTQTIA+ people face social stigma, harassment, violence and discrimination in various aspects of life13.
- LGBTQTIA+ organizations:
- The LGBT Centre is the first and only LGBTQI+ human rights organization in Mongolia, founded in 2007. It provides legal, psychological and social services, advocacy, education and research on LGBTQTIA+ issues45.
- The Coalition for Equality and LGBT Human Rights is a network of civil society organizations, activists and allies that aims to promote and protect the rights of LGBTQTIA+ people in Mongolia. It was launched in 2020 with the support of the United Nations3.
- The Asia Foundation is an international development organization that works on various issues in Mongolia, including gender equality, anti-corruption, urban governance and climate change. It also supports LGBTQTIA+ initiatives such as research, capacity building and public awareness
๐ฒ๐ช Montenegro
According to Wikipedia, LGBTQIA+ people in Montenegro have some legal rights, such as the right to change legal gender (since 2008), the right to enter into civil partnerships (since 2020), and the prohibition of discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity (since 2010)1. However, Montenegrin society is still largely conservative and homophobic, and LGBTQIA+ people face harassment and violence12.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in Montenegro are:
- ILGA-Europe, an umbrella organization that advocates for LGBTQIA+ rights at the European level and provides funding and support to local groups3.
- Rainbow Europe, a project that monitors and ranks European countries on their respect for LGBTQIA+ rights and provides recommendations for improvement4.
- InterPride, a network of pride organizers that promotes LGBTQIA+ visibility and solidarity worldwide5.
You can find more information about these and other organizations on their websites or on the Equaldex website6, which provides a summary of LGBTQIA+ rights in different countries.
๐ฒ๐ธ Montserrat
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQTIA+ persons in Montserrat may face legal challenges not experienced by non-LGBTQTIA+ residents. Same-sex sexual activity has been legal in Montserrat since 2001, but there is no recognition of same-sex unions or adoption rights12. The Constitution of Montserrat prohibits discrimination on the grounds of sex, but does not mention sexual orientation or gender identity3.
Unfortunately, I could not find any specific LGBTQTIA+ organizations in Montserrat. Equaldex4 says there are no organizations in this region. However, there are some UK NGOs that work in Montserrat, but they do not seem to focus on LGBTQTIA+ issues5. There is also a Social Services Department in the Government of Montserrat, but it does not mention any services for LGBTQTIA+ people6.
๐ฒ๐ฆ Morocco
According to my search results, LGBTQTIA+ rights in Morocco are very limited and precarious. Homosexuality is illegal and punishable by prison time and fines under article 489 of the Penal Code12. LGBTQTIA+ travelers are advised to exercise caution and discretion when visiting Morocco23. LGBTQTIA+ people in Morocco face social stigma, discrimination and violence4.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Morocco are:
- Trans Dynamics: an unregistered organization by and for trans people5.
- Nassawiyat: a Moroccan-based group that advocates for womenโs and LGBTQTIA+ rights6.
- Kifkif: a Moroccan LGBT association based in Spain7.
๐ฒ๐ฟ Mozambique
According to Wikipedia1, same-sex sexual activity became legal in Mozambique under the new Criminal Code that took effect in June 2015. Discrimination based on sexual orientation in employment has been illegal since 2007. However, there is no legal recognition of same-sex unions, no protection against discrimination in other areas, and no laws allowing transgender people to change their legal gender1.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Mozambique are:
- LAMBDA, the first and only LGBT association in Mozambique, which provides education, counseling and advocacy for LGBT people2.
- Associaรงรฃo Meninos De Moรงambique (AMDM), an NGO that works on health, social development and youth issues, especially for men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender people3.
- GlobalGiving, a platform that connects donors with local non-profits, including some that work on LGBT rights in Mozambique4.
๐ฒ๐ฒ Myanmar
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQIA+ rights in Myanmar are subject to official persecution and discrimination, with LGBTQIA+ people facing legal and social challenges not experienced by others. Some of the rights that are denied or restricted include:
- Same-sex sexual activity is illegal and punishable by imprisonment
- No legal recognition of same-sex relationships
- No anti-discrimination laws covering sexual orientation or gender identity
- No laws allowing transgender people to change their legal gender
- No laws protecting LGBTQIA+ people from hate crimes or hate speech
There are some organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in Myanmar, such as:
- Colors Rainbow, a network of LGBTQIA+ activists that provides advocacy, education and support services2
- &PROUD, a non-profit organization that organizes LGBTQIA+ film festivals, photo exhibitions and other events3
- UNFPA Myanmar, a UN agency that provides integrated mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) for LGBTQIA+ people4
You can find more information about these and other organizations on GlobalGiving5, a platform that connects donors with non-profits in Myanmar.
๐ณ๐ฆ Namibia
According to my search results, LGBTQTIA+ rights in Namibia are more advanced than in many other African countries, but still face many challenges and barriers. Namibia decriminalized homosexuality in 1990, but does not recognize same-sex marriage or civil unions12. Discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity is not banned, and LGBTQTIA+ people face social stigma, harassment and violence13.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Namibia are:
- Out-Right Namibia: a human rights organization that advocates for the rights of sexual and gender minorities4.
- Wings to Transcend Namibia: a trans-led organization that provides support and services to trans and gender-diverse people4.
- The Rainbow Project: a non-governmental organization that promotes the health and well-being of LGBTQTIA+ people5.
๐ณ๐ท Nauru
According to Wikipedia1, same-sex sexual activity is legal in Nauru, but there is no legal recognition of same-sex unions, no protection against discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity, and no laws allowing transgender people to change their legal gender1The age of consent is 16 for heterosexuals and 18 for homosexuals2.
I could not find any specific organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Nauru, but there are some global platforms that connect donors with local non-profits, such as:
- Equaldex, a collaborative knowledge base for the LGBTQ+ movement, which lists some LGBT organizations in Nauru3.
- NGO Explorer, a tool that helps to find UK NGOs working in different countries, including Nauru4.
- Goodera, a platform that showcases 19 global LGBTQIA+ nonprofits and charities that work to advance gender equality, eliminate discrimination, and protect LGBTQIA+ rights5.
๐ณ๐ต Nepal
LGBTQTIA+ rights in Nepal have evolved significantly during the 21st century. In 2007, the Supreme Court ruled to legally recognize a third gender category and to audit all laws that discriminated against LGBT people1. The Constitution now recognizes LGBT rights as fundamental rights1. However, LGBT couples still cannot legally marry or enjoy some other rights that heterosexual couples have2. Some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Nepal are:
- Blue Diamond Society: A Nepal LGBT rights organization that was founded in 2001. It works for sexual and gender minorities3.
- Mitini Nepal: A non-governmental organization that focuses on community-based advocacy to empower organizations and individuals working for the rights of sexual and gender minorities4.
- Bhumika Shrestha: A transgender activist who received the 2022 International Women of Courage Award from the US government for her work on promoting LGBT rights and awareness5.
๐ณ๐ฑ Netherlands
According to my search results, LGBTQTIA+ rights in the Netherlands rank among the highest in the world. The Netherlands legalized same-sex sexual activity in 1811, same-sex marriage in 2001, and adoption by same-sex couples in 200912. The Netherlands also bans discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in various areas, such as employment, education and health care23. However, there are still challenges and issues facing LGBTQTIA+ people in the Netherlands, such as social acceptance, hate crimes and asylum rights34.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in the Netherlands are:
- COC Nederland: the oldest LGBTQTIA+ organization in the world, founded in 1946. It organizes various events, such as Amsterdam Pride, and advocates for LGBTQTIA+ rights nationally and internationally5.
- A.S.V. Gay: a student association for LGBTQTIA+ students in Amsterdam. It offers social activities, support and education for its members and allies5.
- Transgender Netwerk Nederland: a network of organizations and individuals that work to improve the social position of transgender people in the Netherlands6.
๐ณ๐จ New Caledonia
According to Equaldex1, same-sex sexual activity is legal in New Caledonia since 1791, and the age of consent is equal at 15 for both heterosexuals and homosexuals Same-sex couples can enter into civil unions under the French Pacte Civil de Solidaritรฉ (PaCS) since 2009, but they cannot adopt children or access IVF treatment12. There is no protection against discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity, and no laws allowing transgender people to change their legal gender1.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in New Caledonia are:
- Gayther LGBTQIA+, a platform that provides information and resources for LGBTQIA+ people in different locations, including New Caledonia3.
- The Caribbean Equality Project, a non-profit organization that empowers and advocates for the Caribbean LGBTQIA+ community in the diaspora and the region4.
- Cultural organizations based in New Caledonia, such as the Association of Kanak Culture Development (ADCK), which promotes the diversity and richness of Kanak culture, including its LGBTQIA+ aspects5.
๐ณ๐ฟ New Zealand
LGBTQTIA+ rights in New Zealand are some of the most extensive in the world. The country was the first in Oceania and thirteenth in the world to enact same-sex marriage in 20131. LGBT rights are protected by the Human Rights Act, and there are several members of Parliament who belong to the LGBT community2. However, some challenges still remain, such as discrimination, bullying, and health disparities3. Some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in New Zealand are:
- Curious: A hub for queer and trans* youth in Aotearoa New Zealand. Run by youth, for youth, it aims to support queer and trans* youth, and give them a place to connect4.
- Chive: A platform that makes it easy for people to find and support LGBTQI+ charities in New Zealand5.
- Inclusive Education: A guide that supports school boards, principals, and teachers to deliver effective, quality relationships and sexuality education programmes for all students6.
๐ณ๐ฎ Nicaragua
According to my search results, LGBTQTIA+ rights in Nicaragua are legally recognized but socially challenged. Nicaragua decriminalized homosexuality in 2008, and bans discrimination based on sexual orientation in employment and health care12. However, same-sex marriage and adoption are not legal, and there is no recognition of transgender identity13. LGBTQTIA+ people in Nicaragua face violence, harassment and persecution, especially in the context of the political crisis and human rights violations that have been ongoing since 20184.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Nicaragua are:
- Movimiento de la Diversidad Sexual: a network of LGBTQTIA+ groups that advocates for legal and social recognition of sexual diversity1.
- Asociaciรณn Nicaragรผense de Transgรฉneras: an organization that defends the rights and dignity of transgender women4.
- Fundaciรณn Xochiquetzal: a foundation that provides support and empowerment to sex workers, including LGBTQTIA+ people5.
๐ณ๐ช Niger
According to Equaldex1, same-sex sexual activity is legal in Niger since 1961, but there is no legal recognition of same-sex unions, no protection against discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity, and no laws allowing transgender people to change their legal gender1. LGBT persons face stigmatization and harassment among the broader population, and homosexuality is considered a taboo subject2.
I could not find any specific organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Niger, but there are some global platforms that connect donors with local non-profits, such as:
- Caritas, a Catholic humanitarian organization that works on various issues, including health, education, food security, and human rights, in Niger3.
- GlobalGiving, a platform that showcases 10 non-profits in Niger that work on different causes, such as women empowerment, child protection, and environmental conservation4.
- Rainbow World Fund, a LGBTQIA+ humanitarian organization that seeks to raise public awareness and provide relief for people in need, including in Niger5.
๐ณ๐ฌ Nigeria
LGBTQTIA+ rights in Nigeria are severely restricted and violated. Homosexuality is illegal in Nigeria and punishable by up to 14 years of prison in the conventional court system1. There is no legal protection for LGBT rights in Nigeria, and LGBT people face widespread discrimination, violence, and persecution1. The Same Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act 2013 also bans same-sex unions, LGBT advocacy, and any form of support for LGBT people1. Some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Nigeria are:
- The Initiative for Equal Rights: A non-governmental organization that works to protect and promote the human rights of sexual minorities in Nigeria. It conducts research, advocacy, and capacity development to influence opinions and views on LGBT issues2.
- Human Dignity Trust: An international organization that supports local activists and lawyers to challenge laws that criminalize LGBT people. It provides legal assistance, strategic litigation, and research to challenge the criminalization of homosexuality in Nigeria and other countries3.
- Black LGBTQIA+ Therapy Fund: A fund that provides financial support for Black LGBTQIA+ people to access therapy. It aims to address the mental health challenges that Black LGBTQIA+ people face due to racism, homophobia, transphobia, and other forms of oppression4.
๐ณ๐บ Niue
According to my search results, LGBTQTIA+ rights in Niue are very limited and unclear. Niue is a self-governing state in free association with New Zealand, and its legal system is based on both New Zealand law and customary law12. Male same-sex sexual activity is illegal in Niue under the Niue Act 1966, which inherited the New Zealand Crimes Act 1961, but there is no recent instance of it being actively prosecuted12. Female same-sex sexual activity is legal, but there is no recognition of same-sex unions or adoption rights12. There is also no protection from discrimination or hate crimes based on sexual orientation or gender identity12. LGBTQTIA+ people in Niue face social stigma and cultural barriers3.
There are no specific organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Niue, according to my search results4. However, there are some organizations that work on gender equality and womenโs empowerment, such as:
- Makefu Womenโs Council: a consulting organization that promotes womenโs participation and leadership in community development5.
- UN Women: a United Nations entity that supports gender equality and womenโs rights in Niue and other Pacific countries3.
๐ณ๐ซ Norfolk Island
According to Equaldex1, same-sex sexual activity is legal in Norfolk Island since 1993, and the age of consent is equal at 16 for both heterosexuals and homosexualsSame-sex marriage has been legal in Norfolk Island since 2017, when the Australian Marriage Amendment (Definition and Religious Freedoms) Act 2017 came into effect1. There is protection against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity under the Australian Sex Discrimination Act 19842Transgender people can change their legal gender with a state-issued recognition certificate2.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Norfolk Island are:
- Equaldex, a collaborative knowledge base for the LGBTQ+ movement, which lists some LGBT organizations in Norfolk Island3.
- Gayther LGBTQIA+, a platform that provides information and resources for LGBTQIA+ people in different locations, including Norfolk Island4.
- Norfolk Island Regional Council, the local government body of Norfolk Island, which may offer some services or support for the LGBTQIA+ community5.
๐ฒ๐ต Northern Mariana Islands
LGBTQTIA+ rights in the Northern Mariana Islands are relatively progressive compared to other territories in the region. The islands are a commonwealth of the United States, and therefore follow the federal laws regarding LGBT rights. Same-sex marriage and adoption became legal in 2015, following the U.S. Supreme Courtโs ruling in Obergefell v. Hodges1. There is no law prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity, but there is a general anti-discrimination law that covers public accommodations1. Some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in the Northern Mariana Islands are:
- The Commonwealth Healthcare Corporation: The primary healthcare provider in the islands, which offers services such as HIV testing, counseling, and treatment, as well as sexual and reproductive health education and outreach2.
- The National LGBTQ+ Bar Association: A national association of lawyers, judges, and other legal professionals who advocate for the legal rights of the LGBT community. It has several state and local affiliates, including one in Guam, which is the closest U.S. territory to the Northern Mariana Islands3.
๐ณ๐ด Norway
- Norway has legalized same-sex marriage, adoption, and assisted insemination for lesbian couples since 20091.
- Norway allows legal gender change based on self-determination since 20161.
- Norway has anti-discrimination laws and hate crime laws that protect LGBTQIA+ people12.
- Norway is ranked as one of the best countries for LGBTQIA+ rights and acceptance234.
- Some of the LGBTQIA+ organizations in Norway are:
- Oslo Pride: A ten-day festival that celebrates queer love and diversity5.
- FRI: The Norwegian Organization for Sexual and Gender Diversity. It works for equality and against discrimination5.
- Skeiv Ungdom: The youth branch of FRI. It organizes events, campaigns, and support groups for young LGBTQIA+ people5.
- Skeiv Verden: An organization that supports LGBTQIA+ people with minority backgrounds5.
๐ด๐ฒ Oman
According to Wikipedia1, homosexuality is illegal in Oman and can be punished with up to three years in prison. There is no legal recognition or protection for LGBTQTIA+ people, and they face social stigma and discrimination2.
I could not find any specific organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Oman, but there are some general NGOs that work on various issues such as charity, education, environment, labour, etc. You can check out the NGO Directory of Oman3 for more information.
๐ต๐ฐ Pakistan
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQIA+ people in Pakistan face legal and social difficulties compared to non-LGBTQIA+ persons. Pakistani law prescribes criminal penalties for same-sex sexual acts1. However, in 2018, Pakistan passed the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, which grants the countryโs transgender citizens fundamental rights, such as the right to have their gender identity recognised on official documents23.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in Pakistan are:
- Human Dignity Trust, which works to challenge laws that persecute people on the basis of their sexual orientation or gender identity2.
- GlobalGiving, which connects donors with vetted and verified non-profits in Pakistan, some of which work on LGBTQIA+ issues4.
- Naz Male Health Alliance, which provides health and social services to LGBTQIA+ people and advocates for their rights.
๐ต๐ผ Palau
Here is a list of some of the LGBTQIA+ rights and organizations in Palau:
- Palau has legalized same-sex sexual activity since 2014, but does not recognize same-sex marriage or civil unions12.
- Palau does not have any laws that protect LGBTQIA+ people from discrimination or hate crimes12.
- Palau does not allow legal gender change or adoption by same-sex couples12.
- Palau is ranked as one of the worst countries for LGBTQIA+ rights and acceptance in the Pacific region3.
- Some of the LGBTQIA+ organizations that operate in Palau are:
- Rainbow Pride Palau: A local group that advocates for LGBTQIA+ rights and organizes events such as Pride parades4.
- Pacific Sexual and Gender Diversity Network: A regional network that supports LGBTQIA+ people and groups in the Pacific islands4.
- OutRight Action International: A global organization that works to advance human rights for LGBTQIA+ people around the world4.
๐ต๐ธ Palestine
According to Equaldex1, homosexuality is legal in Palestine, but there is no legal recognition or protection for LGBTQTIA+ people. They face discrimination, harassment, and violence from both the authorities and the society23.
There are some organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Palestine, such as Aswat, a feminist queer movement for sexual and gender diversity4, and Al Qaws, a group for sexual and gender diversity in Palestinian society2. However, they face restrictions and threats from the Palestinian Authority and other groups2.
๐ต๐ฆ Panama
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQIA+ people in Panama face legal and social challenges not experienced by non-LGBTQIA+ residents. Panama decriminalized homosexuality in 2008, but does not have any specific law to protect LGBTQIA+ people from discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity21. Panama is bound by international treaty obligations to legalize same-sex marriage and adoption by same-sex couples, following a 2018 Inter-American Court of Human Rights ruling, but a constitutional amendment prohibiting same-sex marriage was approved by the National Assembly of Panama in 2019, though it was later withdrawn1.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in Panama are:
- ReportOUT, which is an international human rights organisation that monitors and researches the lived experiences of LGBTQIA+ people around the world, including Panama2.
- Human Rights Watch, which advocates for the rights of LGBTQIA+ people in Panama and other countries, and has documented cases of discrimination and violence against transgender people in Panama3.
- GlobalGiving, which connects donors with vetted and verified non-profits in Panama and other countries, some of which work on LGBTQIA+ issues45.
- Gayther, which provides information and resources for LGBTQIA+ travelers and locals in Panama and other countries, including guides, events, and services6.
๐ต๐ฌ Papua New Guinea
Here is a list of some of the LGBTQIA+ rights and organizations in Papua New Guinea:
- Papua New Guinea has criminalized same-sex sexual activity between men, punishable by up to 14 yearsโ imprisonment, but the law is not enforced12.
- Papua New Guinea does not recognize same-sex marriage or civil unions13.
- Papua New Guinea does not have any laws that protect LGBTQIA+ people from discrimination or hate crimes12.
- Papua New Guinea does not allow legal gender change or adoption by same-sex couples13.
- Papua New Guinea is ranked as one of the worst countries for LGBTQIA+ rights and acceptance in the world34.
- Some of the LGBTQIA+ organizations that operate in Papua New Guinea are:
๐ต๐พ Paraguay
According to Equaldex1, homosexuality is legal in Paraguay, but same-sex couples and households are not eligible for all of the same legal protections available to opposite-sex married couples. Paraguay is one of the few conservative countries in South America regarding LGBTQTIA+ rights2. There is no broad legal protection against LGBTQTIA+ discrimination, but some specific laws and decrees prohibit it based on sexual orientation or gender identity2.
I could not find any specific organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Paraguay, but there are some general NGOs that work on various issues such as human rights, education, health, environment, etc. You can check out the GlobalGiving directory of Paraguay NGOs3 for more information.
๐ต๐ช Peru
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQIA+ people in Peru face some legal challenges not experienced by non-LGBTQIA+ residents. Same-sex sexual activity has been legal in Peru since 1924 and discrimination against LGBTQIA+ people was banned in 2017, but same-sex marriage and adoption are not yet legal1. However, in 2023, the Inter-American Court of Human Rights ruled that Peru must recognize same-sex marriages performed abroad and grant them the same rights as opposite-sex couples2.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in Peru are:
- IGLTA, which is a global network of LGBTQIA+ welcoming tourism businesses that provides travel guides, safety tips, and events for LGBTQIA+ travelers in Peru and other countries3.
- Human Rights Watch, which advocates for the rights of LGBTQIA+ people in Peru and other countries, and has documented cases of violence and discrimination against LGBTQIA+ people in Peru2.
- GlobalGiving, which connects donors with vetted and verified non-profits in Peru and other countries, some of which work on LGBTQIA+ issues4.
- Huaywasi, which is a fair trade artisan project that supports LGBTQIA+ pride in Peru and sells handmade products made by women artisans in Lima5.
๐ต๐ญ Philippines
Here is a list of some of the LGBTQIA+ rights and organizations in the Philippines:
- The Philippines has legalized same-sex sexual activity since 1899, but does not recognize same-sex marriage or civil unions12.
- The Philippines has some laws that protect LGBTQIA+ people from discrimination in employment, education and health care, but not in other areas such as housing, public accommodations or military service12.
- The Philippines does not have any laws that protect LGBTQIA+ people from hate crimes or conversion therapy12.
- The Philippines allows legal gender change for transgender people, but only after undergoing sex reassignment surgery12.
- The Philippines does not allow adoption by same-sex couples or single LGBTQIA+ people12.
- The Philippines is ranked as one of the most tolerant countries for LGBTQIA+ rights and acceptance in Asia, but still faces challenges such as stigma, violence and lack of legal recognition34.
- Some of the LGBTQIA+ organizations that operate in the Philippines are:
- UP Babaylan: The oldest LGBTQIA+ student organization in the Philippines, founded in 199256.
- Metro Manila Pride: The organizer of the annual Pride march and festival in Metro Manila, the largest LGBTQIA+ event in Southeast Asia56.
- LoveYourself: A volunteer-based organization that provides HIV testing, counseling and education services to LGBTQIA+ people56.
- Rainbow Rights Philippines: A legal advocacy group that works to advance human rights for LGBTQIA+ people through policy reform, litigation and education5.
- Bahaghari: A national democratic alliance of LGBTQIA+ organizations that campaigns for social justice and national sovereignty5.
๐ต๐ณ Pitcairn Islands
According to Equaldex1, LGBTQTIA+ people in the Pitcairn Islands enjoy most of the same rights as non-LGBTQTIA+ people. Same-sex sexual activity is legal, discrimination based on sexual orientation is constitutionally outlawed and same-sex marriage has been legal since 14 May 20152. The Pitcairn Islands are one of the most progressive territories in Oceania regarding LGBTQTIA+ rights3.
I could not find any specific organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in the Pitcairn Islands, but there are some general human rights categories on Wikipedia4 that might be relevant. You can also check out Equaldex5 for more information on the LGBTQ+ movement around the world.
๐ต๐ฑ Poland
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQIA+ people in Poland face legal and social challenges not experienced by non-LGBTQIA+ residents. Poland does not recognize same-sex marriage or civil unions, and does not allow same-sex couples to adopt children1. Poland also does not have any anti-discrimination laws that cover sexual orientation and gender identity in areas such as education, health care, and hate crimes1. According to ILGA-Europeโs 2023 report, the status of LGBTQ rights in Poland is the worst among the European Union countries1.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in Poland are:
- Campaign Against Homophobia, which is the oldest and largest LGBTQIA+ organization in Poland, working on advocacy, education, and support for LGBTQIA+ people2.
- Lambda Warsaw, which is an LGBTQIA+ organization that provides psychological, legal, and social assistance to LGBTQIA+ people, as well as organizing cultural and educational events2.
- Human Rights Watch, which advocates for the rights of LGBTQIA+ people in Poland and other countries, and has documented cases of erosion of rule of law and human rights violations against LGBTQIA+ people in Poland3.
- All Out, which is a global movement for love and equality that campaigns for LGBTQIA+ rights around the world, including Poland, where it has supported local activists and organizations to resist the anti-LGBTQIA+ backlash4.
๐ต๐น Portugal
โm happy to help you with your request. Here is a list of some of the LGBTQIA+ rights and organizations in Portugal:
- Portugal legalized same-sex sexual activity in 1982 and same-sex marriage in 2010, becoming the sixth European country and the eighth country in the world to do so12.
- Portugal allows same-sex couples to adopt children, access assisted reproduction and share parental rights since 201612.
- Portugal protects LGBTQIA+ people from discrimination and hate crimes based on sexual orientation and gender identity in various areas such as employment, education, health care, housing and public services23.
- Portugal allows legal gender change for transgender people without requiring surgery, sterilization or medical diagnosis since 201823.
- Portugal allows LGBTQIA+ people to serve openly in the military and donate blood without restrictions13.
- Portugal is ranked as one of the most LGBT-friendly countries in the world, with high levels of social acceptance and support24.
- Some of the LGBTQIA+ organizations that operate in Portugal are:
- ILGA Portugal: The oldest and largest LGBTQIA+ association in Portugal, founded in 1995, that advocates for legal and social equality2.
- Rede ex aequo: A youth association that promotes education, awareness and support for LGBTQIA+ people aged 16 to 302.
- Opus Gay: A cultural and social organization that works to combat homophobia and promote diversity2.
- AMPLOS: An association of parents and friends of LGBTQIA+ people that provides information, counseling and solidarity2.
๐ต๐ท Puerto Rico
According to Wikipedia1 and Equaldex2, LGBTQTIA+ people in Puerto Rico have almost the same protections and rights as heterosexual individuals. Same-sex marriage has been legal in the commonwealth since July 2015, after the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in the case of Obergefell v. Hodges that same-sex marriage bans are unconstitutional. There are also laws and decrees that prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity1.
There are some organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Puerto Rico, such as Filantropรญa Puerto Rico, a philanthropy-serving organization that works on areas of equity, collaboration, transparency and social justice3, and Puerto Rico LGBT Rights Organizations, a directory of local groups that advocate for the queer community4. However, LGBTQTIA+ people still face challenges such as discrimination, harassment, and violence from both the authorities and the society5.
๐ถ๐ฆ Qatar
According to Equaldex1, LGBTQIA+ people in Qatar face severe legal and social challenges not experienced by non-LGBTQIA+ residents. Qatar is a conservative Muslim country and does not permit same-sex marriage or any other form of same-sex relationship. The countryโs laws and cultural norms heavily discriminate against LGBTQIA+ individuals, and homosexuality is punishable by imprisonment or fines12. For Muslims duly convicted in the sharia courts, a judicial sentence of capital punishment for homosexuality is a possibility, although rarely, if ever, imposed2. There are no legal protections for LGBTQIA+ people in Qatar, and they often face harassment, discrimination, and violence13.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in Qatar are:
- Alwan Foundation, which is a non-profit organization founded by Naser Mohamed, a Qatari LGBTQIA+ activist who fled the country after being arrested and tortured for his sexual orientation. The organization aims to advance LGBTQIA+ rights across the Middle East and especially Qatar, where it provides support and resources for LGBTQIA+ people4.
- Human Rights Watch, which advocates for the rights of LGBTQIA+ people in Qatar and other countries, and has documented cases of arbitrary arrests, ill-treatment, and torture of LGBTQIA+ people in Qatar, especially in the context of the 2022 FIFA World Cup35.
- Human Dignity Trust, which is an international organization that supports legal challenges to laws that persecute LGBTQIA+ people around the world, including Qatar, where it provides legal assistance and research on the human rights situation of LGBTQIA+ people5.
๐ท๐ช Rรฉunion
According to Equaldex1, LGBTQTIA+ rights in Rรฉunion are the same as in France, since it is an overseas department of France. This means that same-sex sexual activity, marriage, adoption, military service, anti-discrimination laws, gender identity recognition and blood donation are legal for LGBTQTIA+ people in Rรฉunion1.
However, there are no specific LGBTQTIA+ organizations in Rรฉunion listed by Equaldex2. You may want to check out some international or regional organizations that work for LGBTQTIA+ rights, such as:
- International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association (ILGA)3: a worldwide federation of more than 1,600 organisations from over 150 countries and territories that campaign for lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and intersex human rights.
- African Men for Sexual Health and Rights (AMSHeR)3: a coalition of 18 LGBT/MSM-led organisations across sub-Saharan Africa working to promote non-discrimination, particularly based on sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) and to advance access to quality health services for LGBT/MSM in Africa.
- Coalition of African Lesbians (CAL)3: a feminist, activist and pan-Africanist network of 14 organisations in 10 countries in sub-Saharan Africa committed to advancing freedom, justice and bodily autonomy for all women on the African continent and beyond.
๐ท๐ด Romania
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQTIA+ persons in Romania may face legal challenges and discrimination not experienced by non-LGBT residents. Romania was recently obligated to accept legal LGBTQTIA+ couples1. However, Romania is also considering a bill to prohibit educational materials that discuss homosexuality and gender transition2.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Romania are:
- ACCEPT34: a non-governmental organization that advocates for the rights of LGBTQTIA+ people in Romania and acts as the Romanian representative at ILGA-Europe.
- ILGA-Europe: an international non-governmental umbrella organisation bringing together over 600 organisations from 54 European and Central Asian countries.
- Transgender Europe: a European network of organisations that support, fight for and represent the interests of trans people in Europe.
๐ท๐บ Russia
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQTIA+ rights in Russia are very limited and there is no anti-discrimination protection for LGBTQTIA+ people. In fact, Russia has recently passed laws that ban any promotion of non-heterosexual relationships2 and prohibit gender reassignment surgery3.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Russia are:
- The Charitable Foundation Sphere (CF Sphere), which provides legal, psychological and social assistance to LGBTQTIA+ people4.
- The Russian LGBT Network, which monitors human rights violations, organizes campaigns and events, and advocates for legal reforms5.
- Coming Out, which offers counseling, education and community building for LGBTQTIA+ people in Saint Petersburg6.
๐ท๐ผ Rwanda
According to Wikipedia1, homosexual acts are legal in Rwanda, and the country is a signatory of the United Nations joint statement condemning violence against LGBT people1. However, there is still discrimination and homophobia in the society, and marriage is only recognized between biological male and female2.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in Rwanda are:
- Human Rights First Rwanda Association (HRFRA), which provides legal assistance and human rights education to vulnerable groups3.
- GlobalGiving, which connects donors with local non-profits that work on various causes, including LGBTQIA+ rights4.
๐ธ๐ญ Saint Helena
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQTIA+ rights in the British Overseas Territory of Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha have gradually evolved over the years. Discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation is banned in the entire territory and same-sex marriage has been legal on the islands since 20171. The territory also has an Equality and Human Rights Commission that promotes and protects human rights for all people2.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Saint Helena are:
- City of St Helena: a local government that celebrates LGBTQIA+ Pride Month in June and hosts events and activities to raise awareness and support for the LGBTQIA+ community3.
- Equaldex: a collaborative knowledge base for the LGBTQIA+ movement, visualizing LGBTQIA+ rights through maps, timelines, and data4.
๐ฐ๐ณ Saint Kitts & Nevis
Here is a brief summary of LGBTQIA+ rights and organizations in Saint Kitts and Nevis:
- Consensual same-sex intercourse between adult males, in private, is legal since 202212.
- Same-sex marriage and adoption are not legal3.
- There is no anti-discrimination law or legal gender recognition for LGBTQIA+ people3.
- There is strong opposition to LGBTQIA+ rights in the country3.
- Some of the organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights are St Kitts/Nevis Gay-Strait alliance for progress4 and The Saint Kitts and Nevis Alliance For Equality5.
๐ฑ๐จ Saint Lucia
According to Wikipedia1, same-sex sexual activity between men is illegal in Saint Lucia, punishable with a 10-year prison sentence or a fine. However, the law is not enforced and there have been no convictions since 19851. Same-sex sexual activity between women is legal2. There is no legal recognition of same-sex unions, and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity is not prohibited3.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in Saint Lucia are:
- 758Pride, which hosts public advocacy and community-building events to end the stigmatization of queer people4.
- GlobalGiving, which connects donors with local non-profits that work on various causes, including LGBTQIA+ rights5.
๐ฒ๐ซ Saint Martin
Saint Martin is an island divided into two parts: the French overseas collectivity of Saint Martin and the Dutch constituent country of Sint Maarten. LGBTQTIA+ rights vary depending on which part of the island you are in.
In Sint Maarten, same-sex sexual activity is legal, but same-sex marriage and adoption are not1. There is no law banning discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity1.
In Saint Martin, same-sex sexual activity is legal, and same-sex couples can enter into a civil solidarity pact, which grants some of the benefits of marriage2. Same-sex marriage and adoption are also legal since 2013, as part of French law2. There is a law banning all anti-gay discrimination2.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Saint Martin are:
- Caribbean-founded LGBTQIA+ organizations: a list of six groups that work to advance the rights and visibility of LGBTQIA+ people in the Caribbean region, such as J-FLAG, CariFLAGS and TransWave Jamaica3.
- The Center for Career and Calling Saint Martinโs University: a resource for students who want to connect with mentors and employers who are LGBTQIA+ allies4.
- Student Clubs & Organizations Saint Martinโs University: a platform for students who want to join clubs that address special interests or initiatives, such as diversity, interfaith or service5
๐ต๐ฒ Saint Pierre & Miquelon
Here is a brief summary of LGBTQIA+ rights and organizations in Saint Pierre & Miquelon:
- Saint Pierre & Miquelon is a self-governing overseas collectivity of France, so it follows the same laws as France regarding LGBTQIA+ rights1.
- Same-sex intercourse, marriage, adoption, military service, anti-discrimination laws and legal gender recognition are all legal21.
- There is no specific organization for LGBTQIA+ people in Saint Pierre & Miquelon, but there are some UK NGOs that work in the territory, such as The Salvation Army3.
- There are also some global or regional organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights, such as ILGA World and ARC International4.
๐ผ๐ธ Samoa
According to Wikipedia1, same-sex sexual acts are illegal in Samoa, punishable by up to seven years imprisonment, but the law is not enforced1. There is no legal recognition of same-sex unions, and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity is not prohibited2. However, Samoan society tends to be very tolerant of being transgender, but not of homosexuality1.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in Samoa are:
- The Office of the Ombudsman and National Human Rights Institution of Samoa, which has been working to uphold the rights of LGBTI people and promote a culture of respect and inclusion3.
- Equaldex, which is a collaborative knowledge base for the global LGBT movement, providing information and resources on LGBT rights around the world2.
๐ธ๐ฒ San Marino
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQTIA+ persons in San Marino may face legal challenges not experienced by non-LGBT residents. Both male and female same-sex sexual activity are legal in San Marino, but same-sex couples cannot marry or adopt children1. There is no law banning discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity, but San Marino accepted recommendations to outlaw such discrimination in 20191.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in San Marino are:
- Equaldex: a collaborative knowledge base for the LGBTQIA+ movement, visualizing LGBTQIA+ rights through maps, timelines, and data2.
- Rotary Club of San Marino: a local chapter of Rotary International that supports various humanitarian causes, including LGBTQIA+ rights3.
San Marino also made history in 2022 by appointing the worldโs first openly gay head of state, Paolo Rondelli, who is a deputy and a captain regent4.
๐ธ๐น Sรฃo Tomรฉ & Prรญncipe
Here is a brief summary of LGBTQIA+ rights and organizations in Sao Tome & principe:
- Both male and female same-sex sexual activity is legal since 201212.
- There is no recognition of same-sex unions, adoption, military service or legal gender recognition for LGBTQIA+ people12.
- There is no anti-discrimination law based on sexual orientation or gender identity12.
- LGBTQIA+ people face social stigma and discrimination in the country13.
- There is no specific organization for LGBTQIA+ people in Sao Tome & principe, but there are some global or regional organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights, such as ILGA World and ARC International4.
๐ธ๐ฆ Saudi Arabia
According to Wikipedia1, LGBT rights are not recognized by the government of Saudi Arabia. Both male and female same-sex sexual activity is illegal and punishable by death or flogging1. There is no legal recognition of same-sex unions, and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity is not prohibited2. LGBT people in Saudi Arabia face severe repression and legal challenges not experienced by non-LGBT residents1.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in Saudi Arabia are:
- Equaldex, which is a collaborative knowledge base for the global LGBT movement, providing information and resources on LGBT rights around the world2.
- Human Rights Watch, which is an international non-governmental organization that monitors and reports on human rights abuses, including those against LGBT people3.
๐ธ๐ณ Senegal
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQTIA+ persons in Senegal face legal challenges and discrimination not experienced by non-LGBT residents. Senegal specifically outlaws same-sex sexual acts and, in the past, has prosecuted men accused of homosexuality1. LGBTQTIA+ persons face routine discrimination in society and there have been recent protests demanding harsher penalties for homosexuals2.
There are no organizations that specifically support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Senegal, according to Equaldex3. However, there are some non-governmental organizations that work on various humanitarian causes in Senegal, such as:
- GlobalGiving: a platform that connects donors with vetted and verified projects by themes and causes, such as education, health, women and girls, environment, etc4.
- Tostan: an organization that empowers communities to develop and achieve their vision for the future through human rights education and social transformation.
๐ท๐ธ Serbia
Here is a brief summary of LGBTQIA+ rights and organizations in Serbia:
- Homosexuality is legal since 199412.
- Same-sex marriage and adoption are not legal, but there is a registered partnership bill pending in the parliament12.
- LGBTQIA+ people can serve openly in the military since 201012.
- There is an anti-discrimination law that covers sexual orientation and gender identity since 200912.
- Legal gender recognition is possible since 2018, but requires medical intervention12.
- Serbia ranks 23rd out of 49 European countries in terms of LGBTQIA+ rights13.
- Some of the organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights are Gay Lesbian Info Centre, Gay Straight Alliance, LABRIS โ Lesbian Human Rights Organization and Geten โ Center for LGBTIQA Peopleโs Rights45.
๐ธ๐จ Seychelles
According to Wikipedia1, same-sex sexual activity has been legal since 2016, and employment discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation is banned in the Seychelles, making it one of the few African countries to have such protections for LGBT people1. However, LGBT people may nonetheless face stigmatization among the broader population1. There is no legal recognition of same-sex unions, and discrimination based on gender identity is not prohibited2.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in Seychelles are:
- LGBTI Sey, which is a local group that works to promote acceptance and affirmation of all people regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity34.
- Equaldex, which is a collaborative knowledge base for the global LGBT movement, providing information and resources on LGBT rights around the world23.
๐ธ๐ฑ Sierra Leone
According to the sources I found, LGBTQIA+ rights in Sierra Leone are very limited. Male same-sex sexual activity is illegal and punishable by life imprisonment, while female same-sex sexual activity is legal but stigmatized. There is no legal recognition or protection for same-sex couples, transgender people, or intersex people. Discrimination and violence based on sexual orientation and gender identity are common12.
There are some organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in Sierra Leone, but they face many challenges and risks. One of the first and most prominent ones was the Sierra Leone Lesbian and Gay Association, founded by Fannyann Eddy in 2002. She was murdered in 2004, and the organization has been inactive since then1. Another organization is the Dignity Association, which was created in 2002 and provides advocacy, education, and health services for LGBTQIA+ people1. There are also some international organizations that work in Sierra Leone, such as GlobalGiving, which supports various non-profits that address human rights, health, education, and gender-based violence3. One of their partners is the Advocacy Movement Network, which promotes womenโs empowerment and fights against harmful practices such as female genital mutilation3. Another partner is the Women Against Violence and Exploitation Society, which provides legal aid, counseling, and shelter for survivors of domestic violence and sexual abuse3.
๐ธ๐ฌ Singapore
Here is a brief summary of LGBTQIA+ rights and organizations in Singapore:
- Same-sex sexual activity is legal for both males and females; for men it was officially legalised in 2022 after being de facto decriminalised since 2007, and for women it was always legal123.
- Same-sex marriage, adoption, military service and legal gender recognition are not legal12.
- There is no anti-discrimination law based on sexual orientation or gender identity12.
- LGBTQIA+ people face social stigma and discrimination in the country124.
- Some of the organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights are Rainbodhi Singapore, Young Out Here, The T Project, Oogachaga, Pink Dot and The Purple Alliance56.
๐ธ๐ฝ Sint Maarten
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQTIA+ rights in Sint Maarten are limited compared to other parts of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Same-sex sexual activity is legal, but same-sex marriage is not2. There is also no legal protection against discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity1.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Sint Maarten are:
- Sint Maarten Alliance for Equality (SAFE), a gay association that promotes equality and human rights for LGBTQTIA+ people1.
- Gaysxm, a tourist website that provides information and resources for gay visitors to the island1.
- St. Maarten Development Fund (SMDF), a non-profit organization that supports various social projects, including those related to LGBTQTIA+ issues3.
๐ธ๐ฐ Slovakia
Based on the sources I found, LGBTQIA+ rights in Slovakia are somewhat limited. Same-sex sexual activity is legal, but same-sex couples have no legal recognition or protection. Transgender people can change their legal gender in theory, but the process is complicated and uncertain. Intersex people have no specific rights or protections. Discrimination and hate crimes based on sexual orientation and gender identity are illegal, but not consistently enforced. Public opinion and political representation of LGBTQIA+ people are generally low and conservative1234.
There are some organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in Slovakia, but they also face many challenges and obstacles. One of them is the Queer Leaders Forum (QLF), which was established in 2004 as a civic association that promotes LGBTQIA+ culture, education, and advocacy. It organizes various events, such as the Rainbow Pride Bratislava, the Slovak Queer Film Festival, and the Queer Academy5. Another organization is the Iniciatรญva Inakosลฅ (Initiative Otherness), which was founded in 2006 as a platform that unites various LGBTQIA+ groups and individuals. It aims to improve the legal and social situation of LGBTQIA+ people in Slovakia through lobbying, campaigning, and awareness-raising5. There are also some international organizations that work in Slovakia, such as Amnesty International, which monitors and reports on human rights violations against LGBTQIA+ people, such as the recent attempt to block legal recognition for trans people6.
๐ธ๐ฎ Slovenia
Here is a brief list of some LGBTQIA+ rights and organizations in Slovenia:
- Same-sex marriage is legal since 201612.
- Adoption by single LGBTQIA+ persons and same-sex couples is allowed12.
- Discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity is prohibited2.
- Changing legal gender is possible without surgery or sterilization2.
- Military service is open to LGBTQIA+ persons2.
- Blood donation by men who have sex with men is allowed with a 4-month deferral period2.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in Slovenia are:
- Legebitra: Provides support and empowerment to individuals, LGBTQIA+ communities, and people living with HIV3.
- DIH: Advocates for equal rights and visibility of LGBTQIA+ persons3.
- ล KUC: Promotes cultural, artistic, and educational activities for LGBTQIA+ persons3.
๐ธ๐ง Solomon Islands
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQTIA+ rights in Solomon Islands are limited and face legal challenges. Male same-sex sexual activity is illegal, punishable by up to 14 years imprisonment, but the law is not enforced12. There is also no legal protection against discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity1.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Solomon Islands are:
- Equaldex, a collaborative knowledge base for the LGBTQTIA+ movement, visualizing LGBTQTIA+ rights through maps, timelines, and data3.
- Womenโs Rights Action Movement of Solomon Islands (WRAM), a non-governmental organization that advocates for gender equality, human rights, and social justice4.
๐ธ๐ด Somalia
According to the sources I found, LGBTQIA+ rights in Somalia are extremely limited. Same-sex sexual activity is illegal and punishable by up to three years imprisonment, flogging, or death penalty, depending on the region and the law applied. There is no legal recognition or protection for same-sex couples, transgender people, or intersex people. Discrimination and violence based on sexual orientation and gender identity are widespread and often go unpunished123.
There are very few organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in Somalia, and they operate under great danger and secrecy. One of them is the Somali LGBT Network, which was founded in 2013 by a group of Somali LGBTQIA+ activists living in exile. It provides online support, counseling, and information for LGBTQIA+ people in Somalia and the diaspora. Another organization is the Queer Refugees Network Africa, which was established in 2018 by LGBTQIA+ refugees from various African countries, including Somalia. It offers legal assistance, health care, education, and advocacy for LGBTQIA+ refugees in Kenya and Uganda. There are also some international organizations that work in Somalia, such as GlobalGiving, which supports various non-profits that address human rights, health, education, and gender-based violence4. One of their partners is the Horn of Africa Development Initiative, which empowers girls and women through sports, education, and leadership training4.
๐ฟ๐ฆ South Africa
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQTIA+ rights in South Africa are based on the Constitution, which forbids discrimination on the basis of sex, gender or sexual orientation. South Africa was the first and only country in Africa to legalise same-sex marriage, and also allows same-sex couples to adopt children and arrange IVF and surrogacy treatments.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in South Africa are:
- OUT LGBT Well-being, which provides free health services, human rights services and training, and campaigns for equality and inclusion2.
- UNHCR South Africa, which offers sexual health clinical care, counselling, support groups, a helpline, public education and training services, community outreach, and court support to survivors of hate crimes3.
- The South African LGBT+ Management Forum, which works with companies to create safe and equitable workplaces for LGBT+ professionals4.
๐ฌ๐ธ South Georgia & South Sandwich Islands
Same-sex marriage has been legal in South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands since 13 March 201412. However, I could not find any information about other LGBTQTIA+ rights or organizations in the territory. This may be because the islands are remote and inhospitable, with no permanent residents and only a small number of temporary staff3.
๐ธ๐ธ South Sudan
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQIA+ persons in South Sudan face legal challenges not experienced by non-LGBT residents. Male same-sex sexual activity is illegal and carries a penalty of up to ten yearsโ imprisonment, although the penalty is not enforced. There is no legal recognition or protection for same-sex couples, transgender people, or intersex people. LGBTQIA+ people face widespread discrimination, harassment, and violence in South Sudan.
I could not find any specific organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in South Sudan, but there are some NGOs and nonprofits that work on various issues in the country, such as health, education, peacebuilding, and gender equality. You can browse some of them on GlobalGiving2 or Concern Worldwide3.
๐ช๐ธ Spain
According to Europeana1, LGBTQTIA+ rights in Spain have undergone several significant changes over the last decades to become ranked among the highest in the world. Spain was the third country in the world to legalise same-sex marriage in 2005, and also recognises adoption, IVF and surrogacy rights for same-sex couples. In 2023, Spain passed a comprehensive law to expand protections and entrench rights for transgender and intersex people2.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQTIA+ rights in Spain are:
- Federaciรณn Estatal LGTBI+, which helps against LGBT discrimination, and protects LGBT rights and human rights in Spain3.
- Fraternidad Gay sin Fronteras, which promotes solidarity and cooperation among gay people around the world3.
- Diversity & Social Good, which provides a list of good LGBTQ related organizations in every sector and by country4.
๐ฑ๐ฐ Sri Lanka
Homosexuality is outlawed in Sri Lanka and LGBTQTIA+ people face discrimination, threats and abuses due to the countryโs Penal Code12. The UN has recommended to amend the laws that target LGBTQTIA+ people in consensual, adult relationships3. However, there are some positive developments such as the issuance of the gender recognition certificate and the acknowledgement of equal rights by some political parties4.
Some of the LGBTQTIA+ organizations in Sri Lanka are:
- EQUAL GROUND, a nonprofit organisation seeking human and political rights for the LGBTQTIA+ community5.
- Women and Media Collective, a feminist organisation that works on womenโs rights, gender equality and sexual diversity6.
- Family Planning Association of Sri Lanka, a sexual and reproductive health service provider that also supports young LGBTQTIA+ community members7.
๐ธ๐ฉ Sudan
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQIA+ persons in Sudan face legal challenges not experienced by non-LGBT residents. In July 2020, Sudan removed capital punishment and corporal punishment for same-sex sexual activity, but sodomy remains illegal and carries terms of imprisonment. There is no legal recognition or protection for same-sex couples, transgender people, or intersex people. LGBTQIA+ people face widespread discrimination, harassment, and violence in Sudan.
I could not find any specific organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in Sudan, but there are some NGOs and nonprofits that work on various issues in the country, such as health, education, peacebuilding, and gender equality. You can browse some of them on GlobalGiving2. There are also some organizations that fight for LGBTQ+ rights in Africa, such as Action Change3.
๐ธ๐ท Suriname
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQIA+ people in Suriname may face legal challenges not experienced by non-LGBTQIA+ residents. However, both male and female same-sex sexual activity are legal in Suriname12. Surinameโs government is also on the right track at home when it comes to protecting LGBTQIA+ people against discrimination and violence3.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in Suriname are:
- The Womenโs Rights Centre (WRC): a non-governmental organization that advocates for the rights of women and LGBTQIA+ people4.
- Parea Suriname: a network for gay professionals that promotes acceptance and equality of LGBTQIA+ people in Suriname4.
- Suriname Men United (SMU): a community-based organization that provides health services and education for men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender people4.
You can find more information about these and other organizations on the websites of ILGA4, Gayther5 and GlobalGiving6.
๐ธ๐ช Sweden
According to my search results, Sweden is regarded as one of the most progressive countries in Europe and in the world in regards to LGBTQTIA+ rights12. Some of the rights that LGBTQTIA+ people enjoy in Sweden are:
- Same-sex sexual activity was legalized in 1944 and the age of consent was equalized to that of heterosexual activity in 19721.
- Same-sex marriage has been legal since 20091.
- Adoption by same-sex couples has been legal since 20031.
- LGBTQTIA+ people can serve openly in the military since 19761.
- Transgender people can legally change their gender identity since 1972 and do not need to undergo surgery or sterilization since 20131.
- Discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity is prohibited by law since 1987 and 2009 respectively13.
- Hate crimes based on sexual orientation and gender identity are punishable by law since 20033.
Some of the LGBTQTIA+ organizations in Sweden are:
- RFSL, the Swedish Federation for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and Intersex Rights, founded in 19504.
- RFSU, the Swedish Association for Sexuality Education, founded in 19335.
- Stockholm Pride, the largest pride festival in Scandinavia, founded in 19984.
๐จ๐ญ Switzerland
According to Expatica1, Switzerland has historically lagged behind most of Western Europe in terms of LGBT+ rights and policies, but has been liberalizing them since the 1940s. Switzerland ranks 22nd on the 2021 ILGA-Europe rating of 49 European countries, based on civil rights, safety, parenting rights, freedom of expression, and quality of life for LGBTQ+ people1. Some of the rights that LGBTQ+ people have in Switzerland are:
- Legal recognition of same-sex partnerships since 20072
- Anti-discrimination laws in employment since 1996 and in other areas since 20202
- Right to change legal gender since 1993 (without surgery) and since 2018 (without medical intervention)2
- Right to serve openly in the military since 19922
- Access to IVF for lesbian couples since 20172
Some of the rights that LGBTQ+ people do not have in Switzerland are:
- Same-sex marriage (pending legislation)2
- Joint adoption by same-sex couples (pending legislation)2
- Stepchild adoption by same-sex couples (pending legislation)2
- Automatic parenthood for non-biological parents in same-sex couples1
- Legal recognition or protection for intersex people2
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQ+ rights in Switzerland are:
- Lesbenorganisation Schweiz for lesbian rights (founded in 1989)23
- Pink Cross for LGBT rights (founded in 1993)23
- Transgender Network Switzerland (founded in 2010)23
You can find more information about these and other organizations on Equaldex3.
๐ธ๐พ Syria
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQIA+ people in Syria face legal challenges not experienced by non-LGBTQIA+ residents. Article 520 of the penal code of 1949 prohibits โcarnal relations against the order of natureโ, and provides for up to three yearsโ imprisonment1. Syrian state and non-state actors have also subjected LGBTQIA+ people to sexual violence during the conflict2.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in Syria are:
- Guardians of Equality Movement (GEM): the first Syrian LGBTQIA+ organization, founded and led by LGBTQIA+ activists and survivors, that works to defend and protect the rights of the Syrian LGBTQIA+ community13.
- UNHCR: the UN Refugee Agency that works to protect all LGBTQIA+ refugees, asylum-seekers, internally displaced and stateless people and provide them with inclusive services, rights and safe options4.
You can find more information about these and other organizations on the websites of Wikipedia1, GEM3 and UNHCR4.
๐น๐ผ Taiwan
According to my search results, Taiwan is the first country in Asia to legalize same-sex marriage in 2019 after a constitutional court ruling in 201712. However, the law only applies to Taiwanese citizens and does not grant full adoption rights to same-sex couples2. Taiwan has also made significant advances in transgender rights, such as allowing legal gender change without surgery since 2008 and issuing gender-neutral identity cards since 20202.
Some of the LGBTQTIA+ organizations in Taiwan are:
- Taiwan LGBT Family Rights Advocacy, a group that supports LGBTQTIA+ families and their children3.
- TGEW, a group that promotes gender equality and womenโs empowerment in Taiwan4.
- Taiwan Tongzhi Hotline Association, a group that provides counseling, education and advocacy for LGBTQTIA+ people3.
๐น๐ฏ Tajikistan
According to Wikipedia1, Tajikistan for Equality, founded in 2019 by Odinasho Sharopov, is the only LGBTQ+ support organization recognized by the Tajikistan government. However, there are no laws restricting the discussion or promotion of LGBTQ+ topics in the country2. Human Rights Watch3 reports that Tajikistanโs human rights record continued to deteriorate amid an ongoing crackdown on freedom of expression and the political opposition, as well as targeting of independent lawyers, journalists, and LGBTQ+ people.
I could not find any other specific LGBTQ+ organizations in Tajikistan4, but there are some general non-profits that work on various issues such as humanitarian aid, education, health, and environment56.
๐น๐ฟ Tanzania
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQIA+ people in Tanzania face legal and social challenges not experienced by non-LGBTQIA+ residents. Homosexuality in Tanzania is a socially taboo topic, and same-sex sexual acts are criminal offences, punishable with life imprisonment12. LGBTQIA+ people also face widespread discrimination that restricts their access to healthcare, housing, employment and justice3.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in Tanzania are:
- LGBT Voice of Tanzania: a non-governmental organization that promotes, supports, defends and protects the interests and well-being of LGBTQIA+ people in Tanzania45.
- Atlas Corps: an international network of social change leaders that provides fellowships for LGBTQIA+ activists from Tanzania and other countries to gain professional development and skills46.
- DDing Dong LGBTIQ Youth Support Center: a South Korean organization that provides a safe space, counseling and education for LGBTQIA+ youth in Tanzania and other countries4 .
You can find more information about these and other organizations on the websites of Equaldex25, GlobalGiving4 and Sida3.
๐น๐ญ Thailand
Thailand is one of Asiaโs most LGBTQยฑfriendly nations1. It has a Gender Equality Act that criminalizes gender-based discrimination2, and itโs close to approving same-sex civil partnerships3. However, same-sex couples are not eligible for the same legal protections as opposite-sex couples34, and LGBTQ+ people still face stigma and violence5.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQ+ rights in Thailand are:
- UNDP Thailand, which conducts research and advocacy on LGBTQ+ inclusion5.
- The Tourism Authority of Thailand, which promotes Thailand as an LGBTQ+ friendly destination3.
- GlobalGiving, which connects donors with local non-profits that work on various issues, including LGBTQ+ rights6.
๐น๐ฑ Timor-Leste
According to a report by the Human Rights Council1, Timor-Leste does not criminalize homosexuality and supports the LGBT community to express their identities in public23. However, it has not enacted any laws or policies that protect against discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity and intersex status, and LGBTI people face high levels of violence and discrimination14.
Some of the LGBT organizations in Timor-Leste are Hatutan, CODIVA, Arcoiris, and Diversidade Timor5. They work on various issues such as advocacy, education, health, and human rights for the LGBT community. You can find more information about them on Equaldex5, a collaborative knowledge base for the LGBTQ+ movement.
There are also some general non-profits that work in Timor-Leste, such as Caritas Australia6, which helps to protect women and children from gender-based violence and enhance sustainable livelihoods.
๐น๐ฌ Togo
According to Equaldex1, LGBTQIA+ people in Togo face legal challenges not experienced by non-LGBTQIA+ residents. Both male and female same-sex sexual activity is illegal in Togo, with 1-3 years of imprisonment and a fine up to 1000 USD12. LGBTQIA+ people also face social stigma, discrimination and violence that limit their access to health, education and justice3.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in Togo are:
- Action Change: a UK-based charity that works with local partners in Togo and other African countries to fight for LGBTQIA+ rights and provide safe spaces, education and advocacy4.
- Amnesty International: a global human rights organization that campaigns for the decriminalization of homosexuality and the protection of LGBTQIA+ people from violence and discrimination in Togo and other countries5.
- Human Rights Watch: an international non-governmental organization that monitors and reports on human rights abuses against LGBTQIA+ people in Togo and other countries6.
You can find more information about these and other organizations on the websites of GlobalGiving4, Equaldex17 and ILGA.
๐น๐ฐ Tokelau
Tokelau is a small island territory in the Pacific Ocean that is part of New Zealand. It has a population of about 1,500 people1. LGBTQ+ people in Tokelau have some legal rights, such as the decriminalization of same-sex sexual activity23, but they do not have access to same-sex marriage or adoption23. There is little information available on the social acceptance or discrimination of LGBTQ+ people in Tokelau.
There are no specific LGBTQ+ organizations based in Tokelau, but there are some global or regional ones that may work with or support LGBTQ+ people in Tokelau, such as:
- Equaldex, which is a collaborative knowledge base for the LGBTQ+ movement, and provides data and resources on LGBTQ+ rights around the world4.
- Philanthropy Together, which is a network of giving circles that supports grassroots and LGBTQ+ and BIPOC-led organizations, and has a list of 20 LGBTQIA2Sยฑled non-profits to support5.
- Diversity Social, which is a platform that connects diversity and social impact professionals, and has a list of 68 LGBT organizations in the world6.
๐น๐ด Tonga
According to Wikipedia1, Tonga criminalizes homosexuality, with a maximum penalty of 10 years imprisonment and whipping, but the law is not enforced. However, Tongan society is very socially conservative and highly religious, and LGBT people face stigma and discrimination12. There are no laws or policies that protect against discrimination or hate crimes on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity and intersex status, and same-sex relationships and gender changes are not legally recognized32.
Some of the LGBT organizations in Tonga are Tonga Leitis Association (TLA), Tonga National Youth Congress (TNYC), and Pacific Sexual Diversity Network (PSDN)4. They work on various issues such as advocacy, education, health, and human rights for the LGBT community. You can find more information about them on Equaldex4, a collaborative knowledge base for the LGBTQ+ movement.
There are also some general non-profits that work in Tonga, such as the Ministry of Health, which conducts a sexual and reproductive health rights needs assessment5, and the Commonwealth of Nations, which provides civil society expertise in various sectors6.
๐น๐น Trinidad & Tobago
According to Wikipedia1, LGBTQTIA+ rights in Trinidad and Tobago are limited and same-sex intimacy is illegal for persons under 21 years. There is no legal recognition or protection for same-sex couples or LGBTQTIA+ individuals, who face discrimination, violence and abuse12. However, in 2018, the High Court of Justice ruled that the countryโs buggery law was unconstitutional, as it infringed on the rights of LGBTQTIA+ citizens and criminalised consensual sexual acts between adults345.
There are some LGBTQTIA+ organizations in Trinidad and Tobago that offer support, advocacy and resources for the LGBTQTIA+ community, such as Coalition Advocating for the Inclusion of Sexual Orientation (CAISO)6, PrideTT7 or F.E.E.L. (Foundation for the Enhancement & Enrichment of Life)8. You can check their websites for more information.
๐น๐ณ Tunisia
According to Wikipedia1, LGBT rights in Tunisia are very limited and both male and female same-sex sexual activity are illegal. However, there are at least seven organised LGBT rights groups in Tunisia: Association Shams, Mawjoudin, Damj, Chouf, Kelmty, Alwani, and Queer of the Bled23. Some of these groups provide information, support, counseling, safer spaces and activities for LGBTIQ+ refugees, asylum seekers and migrants4.
๐น๐ท Turkey
According to Equaldex1, LGBTQIA+ people in Turkey face legal and social challenges not experienced by non-LGBTQIA+ residents. Although homosexuality is legal in Turkey, LGBTQIA+ people have no legal protection from discrimination and face widespread homophobia, transphobia and violence12. The government has also banned LGBTQIA+ events and cracked down on LGBTQIA+ activists and organizations34.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in Turkey are:
- KAOS GL: a non-governmental organization that works to promote the human rights, visibility and solidarity of LGBTQIA+ people in Turkey5 .
- Lambda Istanbul: a non-profit organization that provides social, cultural, psychological and legal support for LGBTQIA+ people in Istanbul and advocates for their rights5 .
- SPoD: a non-governmental organization that works to empower LGBTQIA+ individuals and communities through advocacy, education and networking5 .
You can find more information about these and other organizations on the websites of ERA5, Equaldex1 and ILGA.
๐น๐ฒ Turkmenistan
Turkmenistan is one of the most repressive and homophobic countries in the world. It is one of the only three post-Soviet countries where male homosexual activity remains criminalized, along with Uzbekistan and Chechnya12. Female homosexuality is uncertain, but likely illegal as well3. LGBTQ+ people in Turkmenistan face active discrimination and stigmatization compared to non-LGBTQ+ residents, and risk arrest, imprisonment, torture, and violence12. There are no legal protections for LGBTQ+ people, and no recognition of same-sex unions or adoptions3. There is also a lack of information and awareness about LGBTQ+ issues in Turkmenistan, and many LGBTQ+ people are forced to hide their identity or flee the country2.
There are no specific LGBTQ+ organizations based in Turkmenistan, but there are some global or regional ones that may work with or support LGBTQ+ people in Turkmenistan, such as:
- Gayther LGBTQIA+, which is a platform that provides information and resources on LGBTQ+ rights, culture, and history around the world, including Turkmenistan4.
- UNHCR, which is the UN Refugee Agency that protects and assists refugees, including those who flee persecution based on their sexual orientation or gender identity5.
- Diversity Social, which is a platform that connects diversity and social impact professionals, and has a list of 68 LGBT organizations in the world6.
๐น๐จ Turks & Caicos Islands
According to Wikipedia1, Turks and Caicos Islands are a British Overseas Territory that does not criminalize homosexuality, and discrimination based on sexual orientation is constitutionally banned. However, same-sex marriage, adoption, and gender change are not legally recognized12. The islands are considered a safe destination for LGBT tourists, and most locals are tolerant of same-sex relationships1.
Some of the LGBT organizations in Turks and Caicos Islands are Caribbean Vulnerable Communities Coalition (CVC), Caribbean Forum for Liberation and Acceptance of Genders and Sexualities (CariFLAGS), and International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association (ILGA)2. They work on various issues such as advocacy, education, health, and human rights for the LGBT community. You can find more information about them on Equaldex2, a collaborative knowledge base for the LGBTQ+ movement.
There are also some general non-profits that work in Turks and Caicos Islands, such as UN Women, which promotes gender equality and womenโs empowerment, and protects women and girls from domestic violence and sexual violence3.
๐น๐ป Tuvalu
According to Wikipedia1, LGBT people in Tuvalu face challenges and discrimination, and male homosexual intercourse is illegal but not enforced. Equaldex2 provides a summary of LGBT rights in Tuvalu, such as the lack of same-sex marriage, adoption, anti-discrimination laws, or gender identity recognition. UN Women3 reports that Tuvaluโs Constitution does not mention sex or gender within the definition of discrimination.
I could not find any specific LGBTQTIA+ organizations in Tuvalu. Equaldex4 lists no organizations in this region. However, there are some general non-governmental organizations that may support LGBTQTIA+ rights, such as the Tuvalu Association of Non-Governmental Organizations5, which is the umbrella body for NGOs/CBOs in Tuvalu. You can also check the category of organizations based in Tuvalu on Wikipedia6 for more options.
๐บ๐ฌ Uganda
Uganda is one of the most hostile and dangerous countries for LGBTQ+ people in the world. It has a law that criminalizes identifying as LGBTQIA+, and imposes life imprisonment or even death penalty for homosexuality123. LGBTQ+ people in Uganda face severe discrimination, persecution, and violence from the state, the society, and even their families14. There are no legal protections for LGBTQ+ people, and no recognition of same-sex unions or adoptions1. Many LGBTQ+ people are forced to live in fear, secrecy, or exile4.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQ+ rights in Uganda are:
- Sexual Minorities Uganda, which is a non-profit, non-governmental organization that works towards achieving full legal and social equality for LGBTQ+ people in Uganda5.
- Outright International, which is a global human rights organization that supports LGBTQ+ organizations in Sub-Saharan Africa and works with mainstream human rights organizations to respect human rights and influence positive changes in laws, policies, attitudes, and beliefs that cause discrimination against LGBTQ+ people on the continent6.
- GlobalGiving, which is a platform that connects donors with local non-profits that work on various issues, including LGBTQ+ rights7.
๐บ๐ฆ Ukraine
According to various sources1234, LGBT rights in Ukraine are improving but still face many challenges, especially in the context of the ongoing war with Russia. Some of the issues include legal recognition, hate speech, discrimination, violence and homophobia. However, there are also many LGBTQTIA+ organizations in Ukraine that provide support, advocacy, education and humanitarian aid to the community. Some of these groups are: Kyiv Pride, Sphere Womenโs Association, LGBTI Human Rights Nash Mir Centre, Insight LGBTQ, NGO Fulcrum, Gender Z, Alliance Global, ZBOKU and QUA5678.
๐ฆ๐ช United Arab Emirates
According to Wikipedia1, United Arab Emirates (UAE) criminalizes homosexuality, and consensual same-sex sexual activity is punishable by imprisonment. Extra-marital sexual activity between persons of different sexes is also illegal. There are no laws or policies that protect against discrimination or hate crimes on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity and intersex status, and same-sex relationships, adoption, and gender change are not legally recognized12. The UAE is a very socially conservative and religious country, and LGBT people face high levels of violence and discrimination13.
Some of the LGBT organizations in UAE are Helem, Mawjoudin, Meem, and Rainbow Street4. They work on various issues such as advocacy, education, health, and human rights for the LGBT community. However, they do not operate openly in the UAE due to potential persecution, and they are mostly based in other countries in the Middle East or North Africa45. You can find more information about them on Equaldex2, a collaborative knowledge base for the LGBTQ+ movement.
There are also some general non-profits that work in UAE, such as Emirates Red Crescent, which provides humanitarian aid and social services6, and Human Rights Watch, which monitors and reports on human rights violations6.
๐ฌ๐ง United Kingdom
LGBTQTIA+ rights in the United Kingdom vary depending on the constituent country. According to Wikipedia1, LGBT people in the UK have achieved significant rights and acceptance, such as same-sex marriage, adoption, anti-discrimination laws, and gender identity recognition. However, there are still some challenges and controversies, such as the ban on gay men donating blood, the lack of intersex rights, and the governmentโs failure to fully deliver long-awaited reforms on gender recognition2. Equaldex3 provides a summary of LGBT rights in the UK, such as the age of consent, serving in the military, and conversion therapy.
There are many LGBTQTIA+ organizations in the UK that support and advocate for LGBTQTIA+ rights. Equaldex4 lists some of them, such as akt, which supports LGBTQ+ young people who are facing or experiencing homelessness or living in a hostile environment; Campaign for Homosexual Equality, which is one of the oldest LGBT rights groups in the UK; and LGBT Foundation, which is a national charity that delivers advice, support and information services to LGBT communities5. You can also check out LGBT Charity UK, which is a charity shop located in Blackpool that aims to create an atmosphere where LGBT people are free to be who they are, love who they love, and live without fear of violence, harassment or discrimination6.
๐บ๐ธ United States
The United States is a large and diverse country with varying degrees of LGBTQ+ rights and acceptance. Some of the major achievements for LGBTQ+ rights in the US include the decriminalization of homosexuality, the legalization of same-sex marriage, and the prohibition of employment discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity12. However, there are still many challenges and threats facing LGBTQ+ people in the US, such as violence, harassment, health disparities, homelessness, conversion therapy, and lack of access to health care and education34. There are also over 450 bills targeting LGBTQ+ rights across the US, some of which aim to restrict transgender participation in sports, limit access to gender-affirming health care, and allow religious exemptions from anti-discrimination laws3.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQ+ rights in the US are:
- Human Rights Campaign, which is the largest national LGBTQ+ civil rights organization that advocates for equality and educates the public about LGBTQ+ issues5.
- GLAAD, which is a media advocacy organization that works to accelerate acceptance and representation of LGBTQ+ people in the media6.
- LGBT National Help Center, which is a non-profit organization that provides free and confidential services to LGBTQ+ people, such as hotlines, peer-support chat, youth talkline, senior hotline, and online resources7.
- LGBTQ+ Elder Health Care Guide – Growing older presents challenges for millions of Americans, but members of the LGBTQ+ community are particularly hard-hit. According to the UCLA Williams Institute, LGBTQ+ older adults face many additional barriers to receiving health care. We created this guide to connect the elders of the LGBTQ+ community to the resources and information necessary to help them find the care that they need.
๐บ๐พ Uruguay
According to my search, LGBTQTIA+ rights in Uruguay rank among the highest in the world12. Some of the rights include:
- Same-sex sexual activity legal since 1934
- Anti-discrimination laws since 2004
- Same-sex marriage legal since 2013
- Same-sex adoption legal since 2009
- LGBT people allowed to serve in the military since 2009
- Right to change legal gender since 2009
- Blood donation by LGBT people allowed since 2017
However, I could not find any specific LGBTQTIA+ organizations in Uruguay3.
๐บ๐ฟ Uzbekistan
LGBTQTIA+ rights in Uzbekistan are very limited and precarious. According to Wikipedia1, LGBT people in Uzbekistan face legal challenges not experienced by non-LGBT residents. Same-sex sexual activity between men is illegal and punishable by up to three years in prison. There is no legal recognition or protection for same-sex couples, transgender people, or intersex people. LGBT people also face homophobia, threats, extortion, and violence from society and authorities23. Equaldex4 provides a summary of LGBT rights in Uzbekistan, such as the age of consent, serving in the military, and conversion therapy.
There are no specific LGBTQTIA+ organizations in Uzbekistan that I could find. The country has a very restrictive environment for civil society and independent NGOs, which face excessive and burdensome registration requirements, harassment, and interference from the government56. However, there are some general human rights organizations that may support LGBTQTIA+ rights, such as Equality Now and NIHOL, which are joining forces to promote gender equality and combat sexual violence in Uzbekistan. You can also check the category of human rights organizations in Uzbekistan on Wikipedia for more options.
๐ป๐บ Vanuatu
According to Wikipedia1, same-sex sexual activity is legal in Vanuatu, but same-sex couples are not eligible for the same legal protections available to opposite-sex married couples. Vanuatu signed the โjoint statement on ending acts of violence and related human rights violations based on sexual orientation and gender identityโ at the United Nations in 20111. However, there is no anti-discrimination law that covers sexual orientation or gender identity2.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in Vanuatu are:
- UN Women โ Asia-Pacific: This organization works to promote gender equality and womenโs empowerment in the region, including Vanuatu. It supports initiatives to end violence against women and girls, increase womenโs representation and leadership, and improve womenโs economic opportunities3.
- Gayther LGBTQIA+: This is a global platform that provides information and resources for LGBTQIA+ people and allies. It offers guides, maps, events, news, and stories related to LGBTQIA+ issues in different countries, including Vanuatu4.
- ILGLaw: This is an international association of lawyers, judges, academics, and activists who work to advance the human rights of LGBTQIA+ people around the world. It organizes conferences, publishes reports, and provides legal assistance to LGBTQIA+ individuals and groups5.
๐ป๐ฆ Vatican City
LGBTQTIA+ rights in Vatican City are very limited and based on the Italian Zanardelli Code of 188912. Some of the restrictions include:
- Homosexuality illegal (penalty: imprisonment)
- No recognition of same-sex unions
- No adoption by same-sex couples
- No LGBT people allowed to serve in the military
- No anti-discrimination laws
- No right to change legal gender
- No blood donation by LGBT people
The Vatican has also opposed a proposed law in Italy that would criminalise homophobia3.
I could not find any LGBTQTIA+ organizations in Vatican City4. The only organization that I found near your location is Best Buddies Italia ONLUS, which is dedicated to enhancing the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities5. However, I donโt know if they are affiliated with or support the LGBTQTIA+ community.
๐ป๐ช Venezuela
LGBTQTIA+ rights in Venezuela are limited and precarious. According to Wikipedia1, few legal instruments protect LGBT people from discrimination in some specific areas, such as the workplace, rental housing, and banking system. However, even when protections do exist, these laws lack mechanisms to implement real and effective strategies to prevent discrimination and inequality. There is no legal recognition or protection for same-sex couples, transgender people, or intersex people. LGBT people also face homophobia, violence, and harassment from society and authorities23. Equaldex4 provides a summary of LGBT rights in Venezuela, such as the age of consent, serving in the military, and conversion therapy.
There are some LGBTQTIA+ organizations in Venezuela that support and advocate for LGBTQTIA+ rights. For example, Uniรณn Afirmativa de Venezuela is a non-governmental organization that promotes the human rights of LGBT people through research, education, and advocacy5Diversidad e Igualdad a travรฉs de la Ley (DIVERLEX) is another NGO that works to advance the legal recognition and protection of LGBT people in Venezuela6. You can also check out GlobalGiving, which is a platform that connects donors with vetted and verified non-profits in Venezuela, including some that focus on LGBT issues.
๐ป๐ณ Vietnam
According to Wikipedia1, same-sex sexual activity is legal in Vietnam, and same-sex couples can register their cohabitation since 20151. The government of Vietnam has also declared that being LGBTQIA+ is not an illness and cannot be treated, in a move that was hailed as a victory for gay rights in the country2.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in Vietnam are:
- Human Rights Watch: This is an international non-governmental organization that monitors and reports on human rights abuses around the world. It has published reports on the challenges and discrimination faced by LGBTQIA+ youth in Vietnam, and called for policy changes to protect their rights3.
- The Diplomat: This is an online magazine that covers politics, security, and society in the Asia-Pacific region. It has featured articles and opinions on the fight for LGBTQIA+ rights in Vietnam, and highlighted the achievements and obstacles of the LGBTQIA+ community4.
- Wikipedia: This is a free online encyclopedia that anyone can edit. It has a comprehensive article on the history, legal status, and social attitudes of LGBTQIA+ rights in Vietnam, with references and links to various sources1.
๐ผ๐ซ Wallis & Futuna
According to my search, LGBTQTIA+ rights in Wallis and Futuna are similar to those in France, since it is an overseas territory of France1. Some of the rights include:
- Same-sex sexual activity legal since 1791
- Same-sex marriage legal since 2013
- Same-sex adoption legal since 2013
- LGBT people allowed to serve in the military since 2000
- Anti-discrimination laws since 1985
- Right to change legal gender since 2010
- Blood donation by LGBT people allowed since 2016
However, there is little information or discussion about the LGBTQTIA+ community in Wallis and Futuna2. The Netherlands supports human rights defenders in the region3.
I could not find any specific LGBTQTIA+ organizations in Wallis and Futuna4. The only website that I found that offers some services and tools for the LGBTQTIA+ community is Gayther LGBTQIA+5. However, I donโt know if they are active or reliable.
๐ช๐ญ Western Sahara
LGBTQTIA+ rights in Western Sahara are very limited and precarious. According to Equaldex1, LGBT people in Western Sahara face legal challenges not experienced by non-LGBT residents. Same-sex sexual activity is illegal and punishable by up to three years in prison. There is no legal recognition or protection for same-sex couples, transgender people, or intersex people. LGBT people also face discrimination, violence, and harassment from society and authorities23. Equaldex1 provides a summary of LGBT rights in Western Sahara, such as the age of consent, serving in the military, and conversion therapy.
There are no specific LGBTQTIA+ organizations in Western Sahara that I could find. The country is disputed between Morocco and the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR), and both parties have a very restrictive environment for civil society and independent NGOs, which face excessive and burdensome registration requirements, harassment, and interference from the government23. However, there are some general human rights organizations that may support LGBTQTIA+ rights, such as Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International, which monitor and report on the human rights situation in Western Sahara. You can also check out Equaldex, which is a collaborative knowledge base for the LGBTQ+ movement, visualizing LGBTQ+ rights through maps, timelines, and data4.
๐พ๐ช Yemen
According to Wikipedia1, same-sex sexual activity is illegal in Yemen, and punishable by death under the Zaidi Shia-controlled territory in the north, and by flogging and imprisonment under the internationally recognized government in the south1. Yemen is one of the worst countries for LGBTQIA+ rights in the world, according to the 2023 Equaldex Equality Index2.
Some of the organizations that support LGBTQIA+ rights in Yemen are:
- GlobalGiving: This is an online platform that connects donors with grassroots projects around the world. It has a list of vetted and verified non-profits in Yemen that work on various causes, such as education, health, womenโs empowerment, and human rights3.
- Human Rights Watch: This is an international non-governmental organization that monitors and reports on human rights abuses around the world. It has exposed the anti-LGBTQIA+ government strategies in the Middle East and North Africa region, and called for an end to discrimination and violence against LGBTQIA+ people4.
- UNHCR: This is the United Nations agency that protects and supports refugees and other displaced people. It has a global report on its efforts to protect LGBTQIA+ asylum-seekers and refugees, and provides guidance on working with LGBTQIA+ persons in forced displacement
๐ฟ๐ฒ Zambia
According to my search, LGBTQTIA+ rights in Zambia are very poor and face serious legal and social challenges12. Some of the restrictions include:
- Same-sex sexual activity illegal (penalty: imprisonment up to 14 years)
- No recognition of same-sex unions
- No adoption by same-sex couples
- No LGBT people allowed to serve in the military
- No anti-discrimination laws
- No right to change legal gender
- No blood donation by LGBT people
Zambiaโs laws concerning homosexuality violate international conventions and human rights3. There is also a lot of stigma and discrimination against the LGBTQTIA+ community in Zambia4.
I could find only a few LGBTQTIA+ organizations in Zambia5. Some of them are:
- Womenโs Alliance for Equality (WAFE): A feminist organization that runs several ground-breaking LGBTQIA+ economic empowerment programmes, despite a deeply hostile environment6.
- Friends of Rainka: A human rights organization that advocates for the rights of LGBT people in Zambia.
- Transbantu Association Zambia: A trans-led organization that provides health, legal and psychosocial support to transgender and gender diverse people in Zambia.
๐ฟ๐ผ Zimbabwe
According to my search, LGBTQTIA+ rights in Zimbabwe are very poor and face legal and social challenges12. Some of the restrictions include:
- Same-sex sexual activity illegal (penalty: imprisonment up to 10 years)
- No recognition of same-sex unions
- No adoption by same-sex couples
- No LGBT people allowed to serve in the military
- No anti-discrimination laws
- No right to change legal gender
- No blood donation by LGBT people
Zimbabweโs laws concerning homosexuality violate international conventions and human rights2. There is also a lot of stigma and discrimination against the LGBTQTIA+ community in Zimbabwe1.
I could find only a few LGBTQTIA+ organizations in Zimbabwe3. Some of them are:
- Gays and Lesbians of Zimbabwe (GALZ): An organization that protects, promotes and represents the rights and freedoms of LGBTI people in Zimbabwe4.
- Action Change: A global organization that supports local projects fighting for LGBTQ+ rights in Africa, including Zimbabwe5.
- Makomborero Zimbabwe: A local organization that provides A-level education and scholarships to low income families, including LGBTI students6.