Research: History of LGBTQ+ Rights in Key Countries
Argentina
The LGBTQ+ community in Argentina began to mobilize and demand equality in the 1970s and 1980s, despite ongoing repression by the country’s military dictatorship. During this time period, several LGBTQ+ organizations were formed.
Argentina’s first Pride parade was held in 1992 in Buenos Aires. The city was also the first to allow same-sex couples to register their partnerships in 2002. In 2010, Argentina became the first country in Latin America to legalize same-sex marriage.
In 2012, the country made it legal for transgender people to change their gender without undergoing medical procedures. Argentina is considered one of the most progressive countries in Latin America on LGBTQ+ rights, although challenges and discrimination still exist.
Some of the major issues facing the LGBTQ+ community in Argentina today include:
Discrimination and violence: LGBTQ people, particularly transgender individuals, continue to face discrimination and violence. Discrimination can occur in several areas, including employment, healthcare, and housing.
Legal recognition: Although same-sex marriage has been legalized since 2010, legal and administrative barriers to accessing marriage and adoption rights for LGBTQ+ people still exist.
Discrimination: Education and awareness about LGBTQ+ issues are still lacking in many areas of Argentina, contributing to discrimination towards LGBTQ+ people.
Health care: Access to healthcare can be difficult for LGBTQ+ people, particularly transgender people.
Socio-economic factors: The LGBTQ+ community is more likely to experience poverty and unemployment compared to the general population, which can contribute to social exclusion and marginalization.
Additional Reading: A Look at the Progressive LGBTQ Rights in Argentina
Australia
The 1970s and 1980s saw the emergence of the first LGBTQ+ organizations in Australia, with activists organizing demonstrations and pushing for change. However, discrimination and violence against LGBTQ+ people continued, and the government did not provide any legal protections or recognition of LGBTQ+ rights during this time.
The government established protections against discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and allowed same-sex partners to receive some legal benefits in the 1990s and 2000s. However, these protections were not consistent across the country, and the LGBTQ+ community continued to face harassment, violence, and discrimination.
In 2017, the government legalized same-sex marriage after a national postal survey showed a majority of Australians supported it. The government also introduced laws to protect LGBTQ+ students and staff from discrimination in religious schools, and to allow people to change the gender on their birth certificates without the need for surgery. However, there are still challenges facing the LGBTQ+ community in Australia.
Some of the major issues affecting the LGBTQ+ community in Australia today include:
Conversion therapy: Like in many other countries, conversion therapy is a major issue in Australia. Several states and territories have banned the practice, but there is a push for a nationwide ban.
Discrimination: While same-sex marriage was legalized in Australia in 2017, discrimination against LGBTQ+ people is still prevalent in many areas, including employment, housing, and healthcare. There is a push for stronger anti-discrimination laws that explicitly protect against discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity.
Transgender rights: Transgender people in Australia face significant challenges, including difficulty accessing healthcare, legal recognition, and protection from discrimination. There have been some positive developments in recent years, such as the introduction of legal gender recognition and access to hormone therapy, there are still calls for more to be done to protect the rights of transgender people.
Religious exemptions: In the wake of the legalization of same-sex marriage, there has been a push by some religious groups for exemptions that would allow them to refuse services or employment to LGBTQ+ people based on their religious beliefs. This issue has been a subject of debate and controversy.
Mental health: Discrimination, stigma, and the stress of living in a society that is not always accepting of LGBTQ+ people can have a significant impact on mental health. Many LGBTQ+ people in Australia face high levels of stress, anxiety, and depression, and there is a need for increased support and resources to address these issues.
Additional Reading: The Future of LGBTQ+ Rights in Australia
Brazil
In the early 20th century, same-sex relationships were often criminalized under Brazilian law, and the LGBTQ+ community faced social and legal discrimination. The 1970s and 1980s saw the emergence of the first LGBTQ+ organizations in Brazil, with activists organizing demonstrations and pushing for change. However, discrimination and violence against LGBTQ+ people continued, and the government did not provide any legal protections or recognition of LGBTQ+ rights during this time.
The 1990s and 2000s saw some progress for LGBTQ+ rights in Brazil, with the government establishing protections against discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and allowing same-sex partners to receive some legal benefits. These protections were not consistent across the country, and many in the LGBTQ+ community continued to face harassment, violence, and discrimination.
In recent years, Brazil has made significant strides towards greater recognition of LGBTQ+ rights, with the government legalizing same-sex marriage in 2013 and establishing the National LGBTQ+ Rights Policy in 2018. However, there have also been setbacks during this time, with conservative politicians and religious groups pushing back against legal and social recognition of LGBTQ+ people Overall, the history of LGBTQ+ rights in Brazil has been marked by progress in recent years, but there are still challenges facing the LGBTQ+ community in the country.
Some of the major issues affecting the LGBTQ+ community in Brazil today include:
Violence and discrimination: Brazil has one of the highest rates of violence against LGBTQ+ people in the world, with many incidents of hate crimes, harassment, and discrimination. There have been calls for stronger laws and measures to address this issue, as well as increased support for LGBTQ+ organizations and initiatives.
Transgender rights: Transgender people in Brazil face significant challenges, including difficulty accessing healthcare, legal recognition, and protection from discrimination. There have been some positive developments in recent years, such as the introduction of legal gender recognition and access to hormone therapy, but there are calls for more to be done to protect the rights of transgender people.
Political environment: Brazil's current political climate has been challenging for the LGBTQ+ community, with some politicians and groups promoting anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric and policies. This has led to increased polarization and tension within Brazilian society.
HIV/AIDS: The HIV/AIDS epidemic continues to be a significant issue for the LGBTQ+ community in Brazil, with many people facing barriers to accessing healthcare and treatment.
Conversion therapy: Conversion therapy is a major issue in Brazil, with many LGBTQ+ people subjected to this harmful and pseudoscientific practice. There have been calls for a nationwide ban on conversion therapy.
Additional Reading: LGBT Rights Threatened in Brazil Under New Far-right President
France
France has a long and notable history with regards to LGBTQ+ rights, marked by both progressive legal changes and periods of intense backlash. In the early 20th century, homosexuality was often criminalized and stigmatized, with notable figures such as King Louis XIII of France and the writer Marcel Proust facing discrimination and ostracism for their same-sex relationships. In the post-World War II era, LGBT people began to form communities and advocate for greater recognition of their rights. In 1949, a group of activists founded one of the first LGBTQ+ organizations in France, Arcadie. In the 1960s, there were significant protests against police harassment of LGBTQ+ people in Paris, with activists organizing demonstrations and pushing for legal and social change.
The 1970s and 1980s saw significant progress for LGBTQ+ rights in France, with the government decriminalizing homosexuality and establishing protections against discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation. The LGBTQ+ community also gained greater visibility in the media and popular culture, with iconic figures such as the singer Dalida and the fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent coming out as gay.
The 1990s and 2000s saw further progress for LGBTQ+ rights in France, with the government establishing civil unions for same-sex couples in 1999 and legalizing adoption by same-sex couples in 2013. However, there was also backlash against LGBTQ+ rights during this period, with some conservative politicians and religious groups pushing back against legal and social recognition of LGBT people.
In recent years, France has continued to make strides towards greater recognition of LGBTQ+ rights, but there are still significant challenges facing the LGBTQ+ community in France.
Some of the major issues affecting the LGBTQ+ community in France today include:
Homophobic violence: Homophobic violence remains a major issue in France, with many incidents of hate crimes, harassment, and discrimination. The government has taken some steps to address this issue, including passing anti-discrimination laws and establishing specialized units within law enforcement agencies to investigate hate crimes.
Transgender rights: Transgender people in France face significant challenges, including difficulty accessing healthcare, legal recognition, and protection from discrimination. There have been some positive developments in recent years, such as the introduction of legal gender recognition and access to hormone therapy, but there are calls for more to be done to protect the rights of transgender people.
Marriage equality: France legalized same-sex marriage in 2013, but there are still many challenges facing same-sex couples, including discrimination in adoption and custody cases, as well as difficulties accessing marriage-related benefits and services.
HIV/AIDS: The HIV/AIDS epidemic continues to be a significant issue for the LGBTQ+ community in France, with many people facing barriers to accessing healthcare and treatment.
Discrimination: LGBTQ+ people in France still face significant discrimination in many areas, including employment, housing, and healthcare. There have been calls for stronger anti-discrimination laws that explicitly protect against discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity.
Additional Reading: Being LGBTI+ in France – The Fight for Equality Continues
Germany
There is little recorded history of organized German LGBTQ+ movements in the early 20th century, but same-sex relationships were often criminalized under German law, and LGBTQ+ people faced social and legal discrimination. In the 1930s and 1940s, the Nazi regime criminalized homosexuality and targeted LGBTQ+ people for persecution and extermination. An estimated 100,000 men were arrested for homosexuality under Nazi rule, with many sent to concentration camps where they faced brutal conditions and death.
After World War II, Germany began to rebuild and modernize its legal system, with LGBT people forming communities and advocating for greater recognition of their rights. In 1969, the Stonewall riots in the United States helped to spark a global LGBTQ+ rights movement, with activists in Germany organizing demonstrations and pushing for change. The 1970s and 1980s saw significant progress for LGBTQ+ rights in Germany, with the government decriminalizing homosexuality and establishing protections against discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation. LGBTQ+ people also gained greater visibility in the media and popular culture, with iconic figures such as the singer Klaus Nomi and the filmmaker Rainer Werner Fassbinder coming out as gay.
The government established civil unions for same-sex couples in 2001 and legalized adoption by same-sex couples in 2017. However, there were also periods of backlash against LGBTQ+ rights during this time, with some conservative politicians and religious groups pushing back against legal and social recognition of the LGBTQ+ community. In recent years, Germany has continued to make significant strides towards greater recognition of LGBTQ+ rights, including legalizing same-sex marriage in 2017. However, there are still challenges facing the LGBTQ+ community in Germany.
Some of the major issues affecting the LGBTQ+ community in France today include:
Homophobic and transphobic violence: Homophobic and transphobic violence remains a significant issue in Germany, with many incidents of hate crimes, harassment, and discrimination. There have been calls for stronger laws and measures to address this issue.
Discrimination: While Germany has made progress in advancing LGBTQ+ rights, discrimination against LGBTQ+ people still occurs in many areas, including employment, housing, and healthcare. There is a push for stronger anti-discrimination laws that explicitly protect against discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity.
Conversion therapy: Conversion therapy is a major issue in Germany, with many LGBTQ+ people subjected to this harmful and pseudoscientific practice. There have been calls for a nationwide ban on conversion therapy.
Transgender rights: Transgender people in Germany face significant challenges, including difficulty accessing healthcare, legal recognition, and protection from discrimination. There have been some positive developments in recent years, such as the introduction of legal gender recognition and access to hormone therapy, but there are calls for more to be done to protect the rights of transgender people.
Family rights: Same-sex couples in Germany are legally recognized and have many of the same rights as opposite-sex couples, but there are still challenges facing LGBTQ+ families, including adoption and custody cases, as well as difficulties accessing marriage-related benefits and services. There have been calls for stronger legal protections for LGBTQ+ families.
Additional Reading: LGBTQ+ in Germany [History, Rights, Marriage]
India
India has a long history of cultural and religious acceptance of homosexuality, with depictions of same-sex relationships dating back to ancient Hindu and Buddhist texts. However, same-sex sexual activity was criminalized under British colonial rule in the 19th century, and these laws remained in place after India gained independence.
In the early 2000s, the Indian LGBTQ+ community began to organize and push for change, with organizations like the Naz Foundation India Trust and the Delhi Queer Pride Committee leading the way. In 2009, the Delhi High Court decriminalized same-sex sexual activity, but this decision was overturned by the Supreme Court in 2013.
In recent years, India has seen significant progress towards greater recognition of LGBTQ+ rights. In 2014, the Supreme Court recognized transgender as a third gender, and in 2017, it ruled that privacy is a fundamental right, which was seen as a significant victory for the LGBTQ+ community. In 2018, the Supreme Court began hearing a challenge to Section 377, the colonial-era law criminalizing same-sex sexual activity, and in 2019, it struck down the law, decriminalizing homosexuality in India.
However, discrimination and violence against the LGBTQ+ community still persist in India, particularly against transgender people and those from marginalized communities.
Some of the major issues affecting the LGBTQ+ community in India today include:
Decriminalization of homosexuality: Although homosexuality was decriminalized in India in 2018 by the Supreme Court, there is still significant stigma and discrimination against LGBTQ+ people in society. Some organizations and individuals continue to promote anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric and policies.
Transgender rights: Transgender people in India face significant challenges, including difficulty accessing healthcare, legal recognition, and protection from discrimination. The Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019 has faced criticism for being inadequate and failing to protect the rights of transgender people.
Discrimination: LGBTQ+ people in India face discrimination in many areas, including employment, education, healthcare, and housing. There have been calls for stronger anti-discrimination laws that explicitly protect against discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity.
Family rights: Same-sex couples in India do not have legal recognition and face challenges in adopting children and accessing marriage-related benefits and services.
HIV/AIDS: The HIV/AIDS epidemic continues to be a significant issue for the LGBTQ+ community in India, with many people facing barriers to accessing healthcare and treatment. There have been calls for increased awareness and support for HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment initiatives.
Additional Reading: Indian Government Opposes Legalizing Same-sex Marriage
Ireland
The LGBTQ+ movement in Ireland began to emerge in the 1970s – the first LGBTQ+ organization, the Irish Gay Rights Movement, was founded in 1974. In 1983, Ireland’s government introduced legislation banning the “promotion of homosexuality”, which faced widespread opposition from the LGBTQ+ community and its allies.
In 1993, homosexuality was decriminalized, and LGBTQ+ people advocated for more legal protections and recognition. In 2003, the government granted legal recognition and protection to same-sex couples, and same-sex marriage was legalized in 2015 after the referendum passed by a significant majority, making Ireland the first country to legalize same-sex marriage through a popular vote. In 2019, the government passed legislation allowing people to legally change their gender without medical intervention. Today Ireland is one of the most progressive countries in the world on LGBTQ+ issues, although challenges and discrimination still exist.
Some of the top issues facing LGBTQ+ people in Ireland today include:
Discrimination and violence: LGBTQ+ people, particularly transgender individuals, continue to face discrimination in several areas, including employment, healthcare, and housing. There is currently no hate crime legislation in Ireland that specifically includes sexual orientation or gender identity, leaving LGBTQ+ people vulnerable to hate crimes.
Health care: Discrimination and stigma can make it difficult for LGBTQ+ people to find health care providers who are knowledgeable and accepting of LGBTQ+ patients, particularly transgender people. Additionally, access to mental health services remains a major challenge for LGBTQ+ people in Ireland.
Transgender rights: There are ongoing issues with accessing gender recognition services for transgender individuals, and there is a lack of clarity and consistency around the requirements for legal gender recognition.
Education and awareness: Education and awareness about LGBTQ+ issues are still lacking in many areas of Ireland, contributing to negative attitudes and discrimination towards the community.
Socio-economic factors: LGBTQ+ individuals in Ireland are more likely to experience poverty and unemployment compared to the general population, which can make it difficult to access resources and support. This can also contribute to social exclusion and marginalization.
Additional Reading: Here’s a Short History of the Battle for LGBT Rights in Ireland
Israel
The history of LGBTQ+ rights in Israel is complex and has evolved over several decades. The country’s LGBTQ+ movement began to emerge in 1970’s, with the founding of LGBTQ+ organizations like the Israeli Gay Youth organization in 1975. In 1988, discrimination based on sexual orientation in employment was banned nationwide.
The 1990s saw the adoption of more progressive policies for LGBTQ+ equality. In 1992, the government allowed openly gay individuals to serve in the military, and in 1994, legislation was passed allowing same-sex couples to adopt children.
In 2002, the Israeli Supreme Court ruled that same-sex couples were entitled to the same legal and financial rights as opposite-sex couples. In 2006, the government passed legislation recognizing same-sex marriages performed abroad, and in 2015, same-sex couples were allowed to legally adopt stepchildren. In 2020, conversion therapy was banned, although it is still practiced by some religious groups.
Today, Israel is often considered one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly countries in the Middle East. But challenges and discrimination still exist, particularly for transgender individuals and those in the ultra-Orthodox community.
Some of the top challenges for LGBTQ+ people in Israel include:
Discrimination: Despite legal protections against discrimination, many LGBTQ+ people in Israel still face discrimination in areas such as employment, housing, and healthcare. While public attitudes towards LGBTQ+ individuals have become more accepting in recent years, there are still segments of society where homophobia and transphobia are prevalent.
Violence: Violence against the LGBTQ+ community remains a concern in Israel, with incidents of physical assault, harassment, and verbal abuse reported.
Transgender rights: While Israel has made progress in recognizing the rights of transgender and non-binary individuals, there are still many challenges around access to healthcare, legal recognition, and social acceptance.
Religious opposition: Some religious communities in Israel continue to oppose LGBTQ+ rights, creating a divide between secular and religious communities.
Additional Reading: Timeline of LGBTQ Rights in Israel
Italy
The first LGBTQ+ organization in Italy, Fuori!, was established in 1971. In 1981, the Italian parliament passed legislation decriminalizing homosexuality (but discrimination and social stigma persisted). The 1990s saw increased advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights in Italy, particularly around issues such as discrimination, hate crimes, and AIDS/HIV.
In 2003, the Italian parliament passed legislation recognizing same-sex civil unions, which granted some legal recognition and protections to same-sex couples; however, the push for full marriage equality continued. In 2013, the government passed legislation banning discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity, and in 2016, a bill legalizing same-sex civil unions was finally passed, stopping short of granting full marriage equality. In 2018, the country adopted a national strategy against homophobia and transphobia, and the first openly gay MP was elected in 2020.
Some of the key issues faced by LGBTQ+ people in Italy include:
Discrimination and violence: Despite legal protections against discrimination, many LGBTQ+ people still face discrimination in areas such as employment, housing, and healthcare. Additionally, hate crimes and violence against the LGBTQ+ community remain a concern in Italy, with incidents of physical assault, harassment, and verbal abuse reported.
Same-sex marriage and family recognition: While same-sex unions have been recognized in Italy since 2016, same-sex marriage is still not legal, leaving many LGBTQ+ couples with limited rights and protections. The recognition of same-sex unions does not extend to adoption or surrogacy.
Transgender rights: Italy has been criticized for its treatment of transgender individuals, with significant barriers to accessing gender-affirming healthcare and legal recognition.
Lack of Political Representation: There is still a lack of political representation for the LGBTQ+ community, with few openly LGBTQ+ politicians holding national office.
Additional Reading: A Brief History of Homosexuality in Italy from Ancient Rome to Today
Mexico
In the early 20th century, same-sex relationships were often criminalized under Mexican law, and LGBTQ+ people faced social and legal discrimination. The 1970s and 1980s saw the emergence of the first LGBTQ+ organizations in Mexico, with activists organizing demonstrations and pushing for change. However, discrimination and violence against LGBTQ+ people continued, and the government did not provide any legal protections or recognition of LGBTQ+ rights during this time.
The 1990s and 2000s saw progress for LGBTQ+ rights in Mexico, with some states legalizing same-sex sexual activity and establishing protections against discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation. However, these protections were not consistent across the country, and many LGBTQ+ people continued to face harassment, violence, and discrimination.
In recent years, Mexico has made significant strides towards greater recognition of LGBTQ+ rights, with the government legalizing same-sex marriage in 2015 and allowing transgender people to change their legal gender without medical intervention in 2020. However, there are still challenges facing the LGBTQ+ community in Mexico, including discrimination and violence, particularly against trans people.
Some of the major issues affecting the LGBTQ+ community in Mexico today include:
Violence and discrimination: Mexico has a high rate of violence against LGBTQ+ people, with many cases of hate crimes, harassment, and discrimination. The government has taken some steps to address this issue, including passing anti-discrimination laws and establishing specialized units within law enforcement agencies to investigate hate crimes.
Transgender rights: Transgender people in Mexico face significant challenges, including difficulty accessing healthcare, legal recognition, and protection from discrimination. There have been some positive developments in recent years, such as the recognition of transgender peoples' gender identity on official identification documents, but there are calls for more to be done to protect the rights of transgender people.
Marriage equality: Mexico has legalized same-sex marriage, but there are still many challenges facing same-sex couples, including discrimination in adoption and custody cases, as well as difficulties accessing marriage-related benefits and services.
HIV/AIDS: The HIV/AIDS epidemic continues to be a significant issue for the LGBTQ+ community in Mexico, with many people facing barriers to accessing healthcare and treatment.
Political representation: While there have been some gains in recent years in terms of LGBTQ+ representation in government, many advocates believe that more should be done to ensure that LGBTQ+ voices are heard and that policies are developed with their input.
Additional Reading: LGBTQ+ History – The Story of Mexico
Netherlands
The Netherlands is regarded as one of the most progressive countries in the world regarding LGBTQ+ rights. The country has a long history of tolerance towards LGBTQ+ people, dating back to the early 20th century. During the 1960s and 1970s, LGBTQ+ activists began organizing and advocating for greater legal protections and recognition.
In 1981, the Netherlands became the first country in the world to legalize same-sex marriage, giving same-sex couples the same legal rights and protections as opposite-sex couples.In the 1990s, the Dutch government banned discrimination based on sexual orientation in employment and housing. In 2001, the Netherlands became the first country in the world to allow transgender individuals to legally change their gender without undergoing surgery.
In 2014, the Dutch government passed legislation allowing same-sex couples to jointly adopt children. In 2019, the Dutch government passed legislation allowing transgender individuals to change their legal gender marker without undergoing medical procedures.
Today, the Netherlands is considered one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly countries in the world, although challenges still exist.
Some of the top issues facing LGBTQ+ people in the Netherlands today include:
Discrimination: Despite legal protections against discrimination, many Dutch LGBTQ+ people in the Netherlands still face discrimination in areas such as employment, housing, and healthcare.
Transgender rights: While the Netherlands has been a leader in recognizing transgender rights, trans people still face many challenges including access to healthcare, legal recognition, and social acceptance.
Conversion therapy: While the Dutch government has taken steps to ban conversion therapy, it is still practiced by some religious groups and individuals.
Family Recognition: While same-sex marriage is legal in the Netherlands, the country's adoption laws can make it difficult for LGBTQ+ couples to adopt.
Aging: Older LGBTQ+ individuals may face unique challenges around healthcare and social isolation, with many facing discrimination or feeling like they must hide their identities in care settings.
Additional Reading: LGBT History in the Netherlands
Philippines
Prior to the arrival of Spanish colonizers in the 16th century, many Indigenous Philippine societies recognized and respected third-gender individuals, known as babaylan or asog. However, as the country was colonized, marginalization and stigmatization of LGBTQ+ people increased. The first LGBTQ+ organizations began to emerge in the early 20th century, including the Society of the Orchid and the Ladlad Partylist, but discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals persisted.
The country’s first Pride march was In 1995, and in 1998, the first LGBTQ+ political party, the Ladlad Partylist, was founded. In 2009, the Philippines passed the Anti-Discrimination Bill, which aimed to prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in employment, education, and other area (but the bill has not yet been fully implemented).
In 2016, the Philippines elected its first transgender politician to Congress and the country's Commission on Human Rights issued a resolution recognizing the human rights of LGBTQ+ individuals.
Despite some progress, LGBTQ+ rights in the Philippines continue to be a contentious issue in the country, with conservative religious and cultural values often clashing with demands for greater equality and acceptance.
Some of the top issues faced by LGBTQ+ people in the Philippines today include:
Legal Protections: Despite some progress, there are still no national anti-discrimination laws protecting LGBTQ+ individuals in the Philippines. Additionally, same-sex marriage is illegal and there is no legal recognition of same-sex partnerships.
Violence and Discrimination: LGBTQ+ individuals in the Philippines are often targets of violence and discrimination, including harassment, physical assault, and hate crimes. Many in the LGBTQ+ community face rejection and discrimination from their families, which can lead to homelessness and other challenges.
Access to Healthcare: Many LGBTQ+ people face significant barriers to accessing healthcare, including lack of access to gender-affirming care and discrimination from healthcare providers.
Lack of Representation: LGBTQ+ people are underrepresented in media and politics, which can limit public awareness and support for their issues.
Additional Reading: History of LGBTQ Visibility in the Philippines
Singapore
There is little recorded history of organized LGBTQ+ movements in Singapore prior to the 20th century. However, same-sex relationships were often criminalized under British colonial law, and this continued after Singapore gained independence in 1965.
In the 1990s and 2000s, the Singapore government began to take a more active role in suppressing LGBT rights, with laws criminalizing homosexual acts and expressions of LGBTQ+ identity. LGBTQ+ people faced significant discrimination and harassment, with little legal or social recourse.
In 2014, the government announced that it would no longer enforce laws criminalizing consensual homosexual acts. However, discrimination against LGBTQ+ people remains widespread, and there are no legal protections for LGBTQ+ people against employment or housing discrimination. The government has also continued to resist calls for greater recognition of LGBTQ+ rights, with public officials making disparaging comments about the LGBTQ+ community and rejecting proposals to legalize same-sex marriage. Overall, the fight for LGBTQ+ rights in Singapore remains a challenging one, with significant obstacles to legal and social progress. However, there are signs of hope and resilience among the local LGBTQ+ community, with activists and allies working to raise awareness and push for change.
Some of the major issues affecting the LGBTQ+ community in Singapore today include:
Anti-gay laws: Same-sex sexual activity is still criminalized in Singapore under Section 377A of the Penal Code. The law has been the subject of much debate and controversy, with LGBTQ+ rights advocates calling for its repeal.
Discrimination: LGBTQ+ people in Singapore still face significant discrimination in many areas, including employment, housing, and healthcare. There have been calls for legislation to protect against discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity.
HIV/AIDS: The HIV/AIDS epidemic continues to be a significant issue for the LGBTQ+ community in Singapore, with many people facing barriers to accessing healthcare and treatment.
Transgender rights: Transgender people in Singapore face significant challenges, including difficulty accessing healthcare, legal recognition, and protection from discrimination. There have been some positive developments in recent years, such as the introduction of legal gender recognition for transgender people, but there are calls for more to be done to protect the rights of transgender people.
Mental health: Discrimination, stigma, and the stress of living in a society that is not always accepting of LGBTQ+ people can have a significant impact on mental health. Many LGBTQ+ people in Singapore face high levels of stress, anxiety, and depression, and there is a need for increased support and resources to address these issues.
Additional Reading: Singapore Turns Page on Dark LGBT History
Spain
Like many other countries, Spain did not recognize LGBTQ+ identities prior to the 20th century; however, during the 16th and 17th centuries, same-sex relationships were acknowledged in literature and art.
In the 1970s, the transition to democracy paved the way for greater LGBTQ+ visibility and activism. The first LGBTQ+ organization, the Front for Homosexual Liberation (FELGT), was founded in 1977. Homosexuality was decriminalized in 1979 and was removed from the list of mental illnesses in 1983.
The 1990s saw further legal protections for LGBTQ+ people in Spain, including the passage of laws prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. In 2005, Spain became the third country in the world to legalize same-sex marriage. In 2007, the Spanish government passed a law allowing transgender individuals to legally change their gender without undergoing surgery. In 2017, the government issued a formal apology to those who had been persecuted for their sexual orientation or gender identity during the Franco regime.
Today Spain remains a global leader in LGBTQ+ rights, with a vibrant and visible LGBTQ+ community and a range of legal protections and rights.
Some of the current challenges faced by LGBTQ+ people in Spain include:
Discrimination: Discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals remains a concern in areas such as employment, healthcare, and housing.
Transgender rights: While transgender individuals in Spain have legal protections and access to gender-affirming healthcare, there are still challenges around legal recognition and social acceptance.
Family recognition: While same-sex marriage is legal in Spain, there are still challenges around adoption and surrogacy rights for LGBTQ+ individuals and couples.
Aging: Older LGBTQ+ individuals may face unique challenges around healthcare and social isolation, with many facing discrimination or feeling like they must hide their identities in care settings.
Visibility and representation: While Spain has a relatively high level of acceptance of LGBTQ+ people, there is still a lack of visibility and representation in certain areas of society, including media and politics.
Additional Reading: The History of LGBTQ+ Rights in Spain
United Kingdom
Prior to the 20th century, same-sex sexual activity was criminalized under British law, with penalties ranging from imprisonment to execution. The 1950s and 1960s saw the emergence of the first LGBTQ+ organizations in the UK, with activists pushing for decriminalization of homosexuality and greater recognition of LGBTQ+ rights. Same-sex sexual activity was partially decriminalized in 1967.
The 1970s and 1980s saw significant progress for LGBTQ+ rights in the UK, with the establishment of more LGBTQ+ organizations and the emergence of Pride events across the country, but the government did not provide any legal protections or recognition of LGBTQ+ rights during this time. The 1990s and 2000s saw further progress for LGBTQ+ rights, with the government establishing protections against discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and allowing same-sex partners to receive some legal benefits. However, these protections were not consistent across the country, and many LGBTQ+ people continued to face harassment, violence, and discrimination.
In recent years, the UK has made significant strides towards greater recognition of LGBTQ+ rights, with the government legalizing same-sex marriage in England and Wales in 2013 and introducing laws to protect LGBTQ+ people from discrimination and hate crimes. However, there are still challenges facing the LGBTQ+ community in the United Kingdom, including discrimination and violence, particularly against trans people and those from marginalized communities.
Some of the major issues affecting the LGBTQ+ community in UK today include:
Transgender rights: Transgender people in the UK face challenges around legal recognition, access to healthcare, and protection from discrimination. There has been significant debate and legal action around issues such as access to bathrooms and changing rooms.
Hate crimes: Members of the LGBTQ+ community in the UK are at a higher risk of experiencing hate crimes, which can include physical violence, verbal abuse, and other forms of harassment. The government has committed to strengthening laws around hate crimes and increasing support for victims.
Conversion therapy: Like in the United States, conversion therapy is a major issue in the United Kingdom. There have been calls to ban the practice, with some political parties committing to doing so if they come to power.
Education: The inclusion of LGBTQ+ issues in school curriculums has been a contentious issue in the UK, with some parents and religious groups objecting to such education. The government has recently introduced new guidelines mandating the teaching of LGBTQ+ inclusive relationship education in primary schools.
Blood donations: The UK still enforces a blanket ban on men who have sex with men from donating blood, despite recent evidence suggesting that such a ban is unnecessary and discriminatory. There have been calls for a review of the policy.
Additional Reading: A Short History of LGBTQ+ Rights in the UK
United States
Before the 20th century, same-sex relationships were often criminalized, and LGBTQ+ people faced social and legal discrimination. In the 1940’s and 1950’s, the US government began a campaign to identify and purge LGBTQ+ people from government jobs and the military. This time period was known as the “Lavender Scare.”
The modern LGBTQ+ rights movement began in the 1960s, with the Stonewall riots in New York City in 1969 which marked a turning point in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights. In 1973, homosexuality was removed from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), helping reduce the stigma around LGBTQ+ identities. The 1980s and 1990s saw significant progress for LGBTQ+ rights, including the repeal of sodomy laws in many states, the creation of HIV/AIDS advocacy organizations, and the establishment of the first national LGBTQ+ rights organizations.
The 21st century saw further progress for LGBTQ+ rights, including the legalization of same-sex marriage nationwide in 2015. However, discrimination against LGBTQ+ people continues to be a problem in many areas, and transgender people in particular face significant challenges when it comes to legal protections and societal acceptance.
Some of the major issues affecting the LGBTQ+ community in United States today include:
Discrimination: Discrimination against LGBTQ+ people still exists in many areas, including housing, employment, and public accommodations. LGBTQ+ people are at higher risk of experiencing violence, including hate crimes, domestic violence, and sexual assault.
Access to healthcare: LGBTQ+ people face barriers to accessing healthcare, including lack of insurance coverage, discrimination from healthcare providers, and inadequate healthcare services.
Mental health: LGBTQ+ people are more likely to experience mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, and suicide, due to societal stigma, discrimination, and lack of support.
Transgender rights: Transgender people face a number of challenges, including difficulty accessing healthcare, legal recognition, and protection from discrimination. In recent years, there has been significant debate and legal action around issues such as bathroom access and sports participation for transgender people.
Conversion therapy: Conversion therapy, which seeks to change an individual's sexual orientation or gender identity through counseling or other means, has been widely discredited by medical organizations and is banned in several states. However, it is still legal in some parts of the US, and efforts to ban it nationwide have been met with opposition.
Homelessness: LGBTQ+ youth are disproportionately represented among the homeless population in the US. Many face rejection and mistreatment from their families, making it difficult to access stable housing and support services.
Additional Reading: Major Milestones in the American LGBTQ+ Rights Movement