Before 01 April 2001, gay couples could have civil unions but were not able to marry.

In 1990, Sudan legalized sterilization, which de facto meant legalizing sex reassignment surgery, however, medical records regarding transsexualism had to be obtained abroad.

Before April 1st 2001, gay people could not marry, but had access to civil unions.

Panama abolished its military in 1989 following the overthrow of military dictator Manuel Noriega. Article 133 of the Disciplinary Regulations of the National Police (1997) considers practicing lesbianism and homosexuality to be very serious misconduct.

In the UK and its overseas territories (including the Falkland Islands), it is illegal to perform medical treatment onto any person without consent. For infants, consent is given by their parents on their behalf under the Children’s Act.

The 1988 Criminal Code of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines took effect in 1989 and criminalizes "gross indecency" between members of the same sex with up to 5 years in prison. The Code also criminalizes anal intercourse with up to 10 years imprisonment. In 2024, the High Court of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines rejected a challenge to the laws.

After the constitutional amendments in Serbia were adopted in March 1989 and Serbia regained sovereignty in its provinces (Vojvodina and Kosovo & Metohija), the criminal code of (Central) Serbia became valid in the entire territory of Serbia. Consensual sex between two men was punishable by up to one year in prison.

The 1989 Constitution of Mato Grosso provided protections from discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation in all areas except for housing. However, gender identity remained unprotected.

The 1989 Constitution of Mato Grosso prohibited discrimination in employment on the basis of sexual orientation. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2019.

Although state law didn't explicitly mention it in terms of employment, in 1989, Sergipe's constitution provided protections from discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation. However, gender identity would not be protected until a federal ruling in 2019.

Although state law didn't explicitly mention it in terms of housing, in 1989, Sergipe's constitution provided protections from discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation. However, gender identity would not be protected until a federal ruling in 2019.

Before the federal law in 2019 included sexual orientation and gender identity, anti-discrimination laws in housing were passed on a state level in Brazil, starting with Sergipe in 1989.

Before the federal court’s 2019 ruling, there were no employment discrimination protections provided to LGBTIQ+ people on the federal level in Brazil. However, several states have adopted their own protections since 1989.

The 1989 Constitution of Sergipe prohibited all forms of discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2019.

Since 1989, Brazilian states have begun providing protections from discrimination in some or all areas to LGBTIQ+ people.

Denmark becomes the first country in the world to legally recognize same-sex unions as the Danish Registered Partnership Act goes into effect. "Two persons of the same sex may have their partnership registered."

Censorship of LGBTIQ+ topics in Singapore largely began in the 1990s after the Censorship Review Committee recommended that materials promoting homosexuality be disallowed in their 1992 report. Gay clubs which had flourished in the 1980s and decades prior were also subject to police raids since 1989. LGBT topics are also censored in media and education by the Ministry of Communications and Information, and the Infocomm Media Development Authority. Restrictions on topics date back to 1997 on the Internet and 2004 on radio. Even after decriminalisation, the government sought to keep its censorship laws.

Since 1989, legal gender recognition was recognised under an interpretation of Article 89 of Law 1270 of 1970 which provides for a change to one's civil status through a judicial or notarial procedure. In practice, this often required surgery. In 2012, the Constitutional Court rules on the right to sexual identity, its relationship with the right to health in the case of transgender people and the change of the marital status of persons on the grounds on gender reassignment. The Chamber rules that it is the duty of the Health Promotion Agency to which the plaintiff is registered, to apply the procedures needed for the gender reassignment surgery, since these are covered by the Compulsory Health Plan (POS). Additionally, in the action for protection it is requested the application of all the procedures required for the normalization of the process of feminization and changing registration of gender from MALE to FEMALE, without leaving in this document any record of the biological condition.

Homosexuality is illegal in Malaysia , therefore there's no age of consent for homosexuals.

Under Section 377 of Malaysia's Penal Code, ‘carnal knowledge against the order of nature’ is punishable by up to 20 years in prison with whipping. A subsection of the law also criminalises ‘gross indecency with another person’ with up to two years in prison. This was extended to include women in 1989. In addition, Muslim citizens of Malaysia can be sentenced to fines, caning and imprisonment for conducting same-sex sexual relations under some states which imposes sharia law. The maximum sentence that sharia courts can impose for these acts is up to three years prison, fines of up to RM 5,000 (1,204 USD) and caning of up to six strokes or all three.

Before the heavily criticised new government guidance in 2017, there were no legal limits on the discussion of LGBTQIA+ topics after the fall of Alfredo Stroessner in 1989.

Article 101 of Senegal's Family Code states: "An engagement is a solemn agreement by which a man and a woman promise marriage to each other." This explicitly defines marriage as between a man and a woman.

In 1989, lesbianism was criminalised in the Bahamas.

In 1989, the Bahamas passed the Sexual Offences Act which loosened the punishment for homosexuality to 20 years in prison. This also criminalised lesbianism for the first time.

It is illegal to perform medical treatment onto any person without consent. However, consent is given by their parents on their behalf under the Children’s Act.

In the UK it is illegal to perform medical treatment onto any person without consent. For infants, consent is given by their parents on their behalf under the Children’s Act

Same-sex sexual activity in the Falkland Islands has been legal since 1989.

Sections 129 and 130 of the Criminal Code were repealed in 1989 when a new penal code was adopted.

Homosexuality is illegal and same sex marriage is not recognized.

The Guinea Penal Code has stated since 1988 that homosexuality is illegal, with punishment being 6 months to three years in prison and a fine of 500,000 (raised from 100,000 in 2016) to 1,000,000 Guinean francs. If the act was committed with a minor (under 21 years), the individual will face the maximum penalty.

Homosexuality is legal

In 1988, the Sexual Reassignment Act passed in South Australia which provided for legal gender recognition after surgery.

On November 15, 1988, South Australia passed the Sexual Reassignment Act, the first law providing legal gender recognition in Australia. Federally, there are no requirements for surgery for legal changes to federal documents since 2013 under the Australian Government Guidelines on the Recognition of Sex and Gender. However, state documents have varying requirements. Most states don't allow you to change your gender marker more than once in a 12-month period. The High Court of Australia has ruled that gender reassignment surgery does not need to be comprehensive, just be socially identifiable as your preferred gender. • Any government department that operates at a federal level does not require surgery. • In NSW a gender marker change requires GRS, top surgery, or orchiectomy. • In Queensland gender change requires an application confirming surgery or proof of reassignment surgery. • In South Australia no surgery is required, only proof of psychological counseling. • In Tasmania no surgery is required, they may require proof of psychological counseling for persons under 18. • In Victoria no surgery is required, you just have to attest you are the gender you claim. • In Western Australia surgery is not required. • In Northern Territory clinical treatment, either: surgery, hormone therapy, or counselling is required.

Until 2015, there were no known laws censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Minas Gerais.

Until 2016, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Ceara.

Until 2016, there were no laws censoring LGBTIQ+ content in Tocantins.

There are no laws censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Pará.

Until 2015, there were no laws censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Goiás.

There are no laws censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Distrito Federal.

Until 2023, there were no laws censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Maranhão.

Until 2021, there were no laws censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Mato Grosso do Sul.

There are no laws censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Piauí.

Until 2022, there were no laws censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Rio Grande do Sul.

Until 2021, there were no laws censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Rondônia.

There are no laws censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Roraima.

There are no laws censoring LGBTIQ+ content in Sergipe.

There are no laws censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Bahia.

Until 2023, there were no laws censoring or prohibiting LGBTIQ+ content in Amazonas.

There are no laws censoring LGBTIQ+ content in Amapá.

There are no laws censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Acre.

Before 2017, no locality or state law prohibited discussion of LGBT topics.

Before 2018, no locality or state law prohibited the free discussion of LGBT topics.

Before Arapongas began censoring LGBT issues in schools, no localities or state ordinances did so.

Before the 2017 change in policy of some localities, no laws censorship of lgbt issues or topics occurred in Paraíba under local or state ordinances.

Before a change in policy in Água Boa, no state-sponsored censorship existed in Mato Grosso.

Until 2015 when Cachoeiro de Itapemirim began censoring LGBT issues, no localities were doing so in the state of Espírito-Santo.

Until the "Escola Livre" bill there was no state censorship of LGBT topics or themes.

There was a 2016 attempt to ban the so-called indoctrination of students but the bill failed and the discussion of lgbt issues was permitted freely throughout Pernambuco until 2017.

Before the Várzea Paulista and Pedreira localities banned information in schools about sexual orientation and "gender ideology".

Prior to Nova Iguaçu's successful effort to censor LGBT topics in schools in 2016, no other locality had implemented such policies.

In Chile, there are no laws restricting the discussion or promotion of LGBTQ+ topics since the defeat of Augusto Pinochet in the elections of 1988.

Laws enforcing any kind of censorship in Brazil are explicitly against the Brazilian Constitution of 1988, that severely punishes it. Every time a State Congress tries to introduce a bill like this on a state level, the Supreme Court intervenes on the case.

In 1988, Kedah passed its Sharia Criminal Code Enactment, which extended criminalisation to include female homosexuality.

In 1988, Kedah passed the Sharia Criminal Code Enactment, which criminalises “men posing as women” with up to 4 months in prison.

Article 1 of an executive order titled "Family Code of the Philippines" defines marriage as "a special contract of permanent union between a man and a woman".

In 1987, House Bill 484 was passed in Louisiana and took effect in 1988. It prohibited sex education from utilising any "sexually explicit materials depicting male or female homosexual activity". Unlike most laws, this was never repealed. In 2024, House Bill 122 was passed and prohibited the discussion of anything relating to sexual orientation or gender identity to students.

Section 28 of the Local Government Act 1988 stated that local authorities could not "intentionally promote homosexuality or publish material with the intention of promoting homosexuality" or "promote the teaching in any maintained school of the acceptability of homosexuality as a pretended family relationship". The law did not create a criminal offence, leaving staff to fear losing their jobs if they breached the rules.

Officially legalised in 1988. In Turkey, surgery is required to receive legal gender recognition; the minimum age required to get sex reassignment surgery is 18. For one to legally change their gender, the surgery must be conducted at a state hospital. In 2017, in response to an ECHR ruling, the Constitutional Court annulled the provision of the Turkish Civil Code that regulates the condition of "being unable to reproduce" in order to allow gender reassignment. The request for annulment of the condition of having a gender reassignment surgery in order to change the identity card was rejected.

Section 28 of the Local Government Act 1988 stated that local authorities could not "intentionally promote homosexuality or publish material with the intention of promoting homosexuality" or "promote the teaching in any maintained school of the acceptability of homosexuality as a pretended family relationship". The law did not create a criminal offence, leaving staff to fear losing their jobs if they breached the rules.

Section 28 of the Local Government Act 1988, which applied to England, Wales and Scotland, stated that local authorities could not "intentionally promote homosexuality or publish material with the intention of promoting homosexuality" or "promote the teaching in any maintained school of the acceptability of homosexuality as a pretended family relationship". The law did not create a criminal offence, leaving staff to fear losing their jobs if they breached the rules.

Section 28 of the Local Government Act 1988 stated that local authorities could not "intentionally promote homosexuality or publish material with the intention of promoting homosexuality" or "promote the teaching in any maintained school of the acceptability of homosexuality as a pretended family relationship". The law did not create a criminal offence, leaving staff to fear losing their jobs if they breached the rules. This law extends to Scotland.

Section 14 of the Sexual Offences Act 23 of 1957, as inserted by the Immorality Amendment Act 2 of 1988, set the age of consent for gay and lesbian sex at 19, as opposed to 16 for straight sex. Gay male sex was in any case illegal for all ages.

Turkey required proof of sterilisation before gender affirming surgeries could be performed, additionally, applicants were required by law to be 18 or older. From 2014 onwards, gender-affirming care was covered under the national social security program.

In 1988, Niger legalized sterilization, which de facto meant legalizing sex reassignment surgery, however, medical records regarding transsexualism had to be obtained abroad.

An archaic 1988 law "banning homosexual or gay topics within school classrooms" was made.

In 1988, Denmark implemented a life-time ban on blood donations from men who have sex with men.

In Mozambique, there are no laws restricting the discussion or promotion of LGBTQ+ topics since 1988.

no description

Published in 1988, the Marshall Islands government legislation established rules for registering births, deaths, and marriages. The expressions used for marriages only described different-sex couples (i.e., one man, and one woman) and did not include any information relating to same-sex marriage. No gay marriages have been officiated in the Marshall Islands.

The age of consent of 14 years is equal for everyone.

Transgender citizens are permitted to change their legal gender in Taiwan provided they undergo gender re-assignment surgery.. In 2008 the Taiwanese Health Department announced it would recommend that female to male transexuals would no longer be required

According to sections 136–142 of the The Criminal Offences Act, the maximum penalty for same-sex sexual activity in Tonga is 10 years in prison and whipping. Decriminalization pending.

In the United Arab Emirates, access to many websites discussing LGBTQ+ topics is blocked by ISPs. The 2012 Law on Combating Cybercrimes criminalises the "condoning, provoking, or promoting of sin through the computer network or any information technology means or a website". In 2016, an amendment to the Federal Penal Code punishes production, possession or display of any material "against public morals" with imprisonment. This is frequently used against the LGBTIQ+ community. Additionally, trans women are effectively criminalised in terms of gender expression due to the Federal Penal Code of 1987 containing Article 359 which punishes “any male disguised in a female apparel” entering a women-only space with up to one year in prison.

Beginning in 1987, there have been laws in the United States that restrict the discussion of LGBTIQ+ issues in several states. While some were repealed, a new wave of censorship laws surged in the 2020s—many targeting public education. In June 2025, the U.S. Supreme Court escalated this trend by ruling 6–3 that public school parents must be allowed to opt their children out of any classroom instruction involving LGBTQ+ themes based on religious objections. This ruling opens the door for widespread censorship of LGBTQ+ content in schools across the country—even where no formal “Don’t Say Gay” laws exist. It empowers religious and political backlash to silence LGBTQ+ voices and erases queer and trans people from curricula under the guise of parental rights. However, there is nothing preventing parents from allowing their children to learn about LGBTIQ+ topics on the federal level. Advocates warn this decision will have chilling effects nationwide, forcing schools to preemptively exclude LGBTQ+ stories, families, and identities to avoid conflict – turning inclusive education into a political minefield and putting LGBTQ+ youth at greater risk of isolation, stigma, and harm.

In 1987, House Bill 1476 came into effect in Oklahoma requiring HIV/AIDS education to state that homosexual activity is a primary responsible cause for contact with the HIV/AIDS virus. The law was never repealed. This would be the first education law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in the United States.

The Civil Code of Argentina in 1987 defined a marriage as being between a man and a woman under Law 23515, effectively banning same-sex marriage in Argentina until 2010. This also applied in Misiones.

The Civil Code of Argentina in 1987 defined a marriage as being between a man and a woman under Law 23515, effectively banning same-sex marriage in Argentina until 2010. This also applied in Corrientes.

The Civil Code of Argentina in 1987 defined a marriage as being between a man and a woman under Law 23515, effectively banning same-sex marriage in Argentina until 2010. This also applied in Salta.

The Civil Code of Argentina in 1987 defined a marriage as being between a man and a woman under Law 23515, effectively banning same-sex marriage in Argentina until 2010. This also applied in Jujuy.

The Civil Code of Argentina in 1987 defined a marriage as being between a man and a woman under Law 23515, effectively banning same-sex marriage in Argentina until 2010. This also applied in San Luis.

The Civil Code of Argentina in 1987 defined a marriage as being between a man and a woman under Law 23515, effectively banning same-sex marriage in Argentina until 2010. This also applied in Tierra del Fuego.

The Civil Code of Argentina in 1987 defined a marriage as being between a man and a woman under Law 23515, effectively banning same-sex marriage in Argentina until 2010. This also applied in Catamarca.

The Civil Code of Argentina in 1987 defined a marriage as being between a man and a woman under Law 23515, effectively banning same-sex marriage in Argentina until 2010. This also applied in Neuquén.

The Civil Code of Argentina in 1987 defined a marriage as being between a man and a woman under Law 23515, effectively banning same-sex marriage in Argentina until 2010. This also applied in Santa Fe.

The Civil Code of Argentina in 1987 defined a marriage as being between a man and a woman under Law 23515, effectively banning same-sex marriage in Argentina until 2010. This also applied in Tucuman.

The Civil Code of Argentina in 1987 defined a marriage as being between a man and a woman under Law 23515, effectively banning same-sex marriage in Argentina until 2010. This also applied in Entre Rios.

The Civil Code of Argentina in 1987 defined a marriage as being between a man and a woman under Law 23515, effectively banning same-sex marriage in Argentina until 2010. This also applied in Formosa.

The Civil Code of Argentina in 1987 defined a marriage as being between a man and a woman under Law 23515, effectively banning same-sex marriage in Argentina until 2010. This also applied in La Rioja.

The Civil Code of Argentina in 1987 defined a marriage as being between a man and a woman under Law 23515, effectively banning same-sex marriage in Argentina until 2010. This also applied in Santiago del Estero.

The Civil Code of Argentina in 1987 defined a marriage as being between a man and a woman under Law 23515, effectively banning same-sex marriage in Argentina until 2010. This also applied in San Juan.

The Civil Code of Argentina in 1987 defined a marriage as being between a man and a woman under Law 23515, effectively banning same-sex marriage in Argentina until 2010. This also applied in La Pampa.

The Civil Code of Argentina in 1987 defined a marriage as being between a man and a woman under Law 23515, effectively banning same-sex marriage in Argentina until 2010. This also applied in Cordoba.

The Civil Code of Argentina in 1987 defined a marriage as being between a man and a woman under Law 23515, effectively banning same-sex marriage in Argentina until 2010. This also applied in Chubut.

The Civil Code of Argentina in 1987 defined a marriage as being between a man and a woman under Law 23515, effectively banning same-sex marriage in Argentina until 2010. This also applied in Buenos Aires.

The Civil Code of Argentina in 1987 defined a marriage as being between a man and a woman under Law 23515, effectively banning same-sex marriage in Argentina until 2010. This also applied in Rio Negro.

The Civil Code of Argentina in 1987 defined a marriage as being between a man and a woman under Law 23515, effectively banning same-sex marriage in Argentina until 2010. This also applied in Mendoza.

The Civil Code of Argentina in 1987 defined a marriage as being between a man and a woman under Law 23515, effectively banning same-sex marriage in Argentina until 2010. This also applied in Chaco.

The Civil Code of Argentina in 1987 defined a marriage as being between a man and a woman under Law 23515, effectively banning same-sex marriage in Argentina until 2010. This also applied in Santa Cruz.

The Civil Code of Argentina in 1987 defined a marriage as being between a man and a woman under Law 23515, effectively banning same-sex marriage in Argentina until 2010. This also applied in Buenos Aires City.

The Civil Code of Argentina in 1987 defined a marriage as being between a man and a woman under Law 23515, effectively banning same-sex marriage in Argentina until 2010.

The 1986 Press Law contains Article 6 which prohibits content that undermines Islam, including the spread of "fornication and forbidden practices and publishing photographs, pictures, and materials which "violate public chastity". Punishments include flogging and imprisonment. Article 237 of Iran's Penal Code provides that same-sex affection between men or between women other than ‘liwat’ or ‘tafkhiz’ (Anal Sex between men and frotting), such as “kissing or touching as a result of lust”, is punishable with 31-74 lashes. In Iran, there are no laws restricting to discussing LGBT topics in the Internet. However those who are accused of Political dissidence or plotting to " overthrow the Islamic Republic " could be subjected to the death penalty as well, of which charges are also included with Homosexuality . An estimated number from the Amnesty International reports is that more than 5,000 Gay men and Lesbians have been executed since the 1979 Islamic Revolution.

Until 2022, Tamaulipas defined a marriage as between a man and a woman, effectively banning same-sex marriage.

Male homosexuality is illegal in Grenada.

The anti-discrimination provision in the penal code was changed in 1987 after recommendation of the above mentioned commission to include sexual orientation, so that it now reads: " Persons who publicly or deliberately disseminate statements or other reports by which any group of people are threatened, ridiculed or degraded on account of their racial origin, skin colour, national or ethnic origin, beliefs or sexual orientation, are liable to fines, short-term detention or imprisonment for up to two years."

The process of undergoing sex reassignment surgery is extensive and arduous, and is restricted to those over the age of 18. There further exists a requirement for adult trans individuals to provide formal certification of parental approval to be issued a permit for surgery. Access to HRT likely requires similar steps.

In 2021, Mauritanian officials announced at its third Universal Periodic Review that a moratorium on the death penalty has been in place since 1987. This has been verified by various UN mechanisms such as the Committee Against Torture. However, arrests in the country are still common.

In 1987, Liechtenstein legalized sterilization, which de facto meant legalizing sex reassignment surgery, however, medical records regarding transsexualism had to be obtained abroad. It is unclear if trans people can seek gender affirming care in Liechtenstein or have to go abroad but they are not explicitly prohibited.

not allowed at all

not recognized a tall

Discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation was made unlawful through inclusion in the provisions of the Swedish Penal Code.

Became legal due to a fatwa from Khomeini in 1987. Trans individuals have the gender they identify with legally recognized and sex reassignment surgeries are publicly funded.

Article 72 of the 1987 constitution states that marriage is between a man and a woman, effectively banning same-sex marriage in Nicaragua.

Article 431 in Grenada’s Criminal Code of 1958, which was amended in 1987 states “If any two persons are guilty of unnatural connexion, or if any person is guilty of unnatural connexion with any animal, every such person shall be liable to imprisonment for ten years.” Unnatural connexion is a term that has been used in legal and moral contexts to refer to sexual activities that were considered deviant or immoral by societal standards of the time. This often included homosexual acts, both between men and between women. However in this Criminal Code, while the language is gender-neutral, only sexual acts between men are criminalized.

Anal intercourse between two consenting male adults is punishable by twenty-five (25) years imprisonment. Anal intercourse committed by a minor is punishable by five (5) years imprisonment. Serious indecency between two adults of the same sex is punishable by five years imprisonment. ("An act of “serious indecency” is an act, other than sexual intercourse (whether natural or unnatural), by a person involving the use of the genital organ for the purpose of arousing or gratifying sexual desire.")

Equal age of consent since homosexual (male-and-male) activity was legalised with the commencement of the Homosexual Law Reform Act on 8 August 1986.

In 1986, homosexuality was legalised with the commencement of the Homosexual Law Reform Act.

The civil law of the People's Republic of China allows for legal gender change and requires undergoing sex reassignment surgery

Until 1986, "sexual deviance" was a reason for exclusion for military service. At that time, some men claimed to be homosexual to avoid the draft. Lesbians have never been banned from the Italian military since women were first allowed to serve in 2000. Since 2010, discrimination against gays and lesbians in military service is banned, but the situation for transgender people is unclear. The organization Polis Aperta estimates that 5 to 10% of Italians in uniformed service (military or police) are LGB. Despite the ban on discrimination, some service personnel unfortunately face harassment or violence because of their sexual orientation. Unfortunately transgenders have not yet gained the right to military service in Italy

In 1986, India legalized sterilization, which de facto meant legalizing sex reassignment surgery, however, medical records regarding transsexualism had to be obtained abroad.

Israelis can change their legal gender only after a sex-reassignment surgery.

Until 1986, "sexual deviance" was a reason for exclusion for military service. At that time, some men claimed to be homosexual to avoid the draft. Lesbians have never been banned from the Italian military since women were first allowed to serve in 2000. Since 2010, discrimination against gays and lesbians in military service is banned, but the situation for transgender people is unclear. The organization Polis Aperta estimates that 5 to 10% of Italians in uniformed service (military or police) are LGB. Despite the ban on discrimination, some service personnel unfortunately face harassment or violence because of their sexual orientation. Unfortunately transgenders have not yet gained the right to military service in Italy

In 1985, the age of consent for homosexual relations was lowered to 16, equal to heterosexual relations, in the Australian Capital Territory.

In 1985, Manitoba required surgery for legal gender recognition.

Homosexual activity has been legal since 1985.

The 1985 Civil Code of Puebla defined a marriage as between a man and a woman, effectively banning same-sex marriage.

Before the 2017 amendment, only sexual orientation was included as a protected class.

In Uruguay, there are no laws restricting the discussion or promotion of LGBTQ+ topics since the end of the military dictatorship in 1985.

In 1985, Kelantan passed its Sharia Criminal Code, which extended criminalisation of homosexuality to include lesbianism. This would be the first criminalisation of lesbianism in Malaysia.

In 1985, Kelantan’s Sharia Criminal Code criminalised female homosexuality. Kedah would do the same in 1988. Until 1989, female homosexuality was not criminalised in the other states and territories of Malaysia.

In 1985, Kelantan became the first state to explicitly criminalise transgender expression its Sharia Criminal Code. All other states would follow suit until Pahang became the last in 2013.

Wisconsin provides legal gender recognition on the condition of surgery having been performed.

The UK banned gay men from donating blood in 1985 due to fear over the aids epidemic. This ban applied to Jersey law.

In 1985, Botswana legalized sterilization, which de facto meant legalizing sex reassignment surgery, however, medical records regarding transsexualism had to be obtained abroad.

In 1985, Saud Arabia legalized sterilization, which de facto meant legalizing sex reassignment surgery, however, medical records regarding transsexualism had to be obtained abroad.

In 1985, Kelantan criminalised “men posing as women” with 1 year in prison in its Sharia Criminal Code. This would be the first criminalisation of gender expression in Malaysia.

Decriminalised by the Legislature of the Virgin Islands in 1985.

Homosexuality was decriminalised in French Polynesia in 1985.

Dutch Civil Law provides that in order for a citizen to change their legal gender they must first undergo gender re-assignment surgery.

In 1984, New Jersey provided for legal gender recognition but required proof of surgery.

In 1984, Australia introduced a 5-year ban on blood donations from MSMs in response to three babies dying in Queensland after a donation from a gay man with HIV.

Article 234 of the 1984 Civil Code establishes that marriage is the union between a man and a woman. The Civil Code establishes that "homosexuality" is grounds for divorce, separation and annulment of marriage. The Constitution (1993) establishes that cohabitation is the stable union of a man and a woman (Article 5). On four occasions since 2016, the National Registry of Identification and Civil Status (RENIEC) was ordered through judicial means to recognize and register same-sex marriages celebrated abroad, however, the RENIEC appealed all the rulings. In 2020, the Constitutional Court declared inadmissible the appeal for constitutional grievance filed by Óscar Ugarteche, so that the RENIEC would comply with registering his marriage certificate with his same-sex partner, which was celebrated in Mexico. In 2022, the Constitutional Court declared the constitutional grievance inadmissible on the grounds that the registration of same-sex marriages “collides with the notion of marriage contained not only in the Civil Code, but also in the Political Constitution of Peru.” Susel Paredes and Gracia Aljovín filed the lawsuit. In July 2023, the Fourth Constitutional Court of the Superior Court of Justice of Lima ordered RENIEC to register the marriage of a same-sex couple celebrated in Argentina. The Court decided not to apply Article 234 of the Civil Code in the specific case because it is contrary to the principle of equality and non-discrimination contained in the constitution and international agreements. The decision only applies to the plaintiff couple and does not affect the content or validity of Article 234.

The Republic of Congo Family Code (Law No. 073-84): Section II. Marriage. Article 127. - Definition. "Marriage is the public act by which a man and a woman establish between them a legal and lasting union, the conditions of formation, effects and dissolution of which are determined by this Code."

In 1984, the Kuwaiti Personal Status Law (1984) came into effect, and Article 1 defined marriage as a contract between a man and a woman. From August 1990 until February 1991, Kuwait was under Iraqi control. As such, Iraq's Personal Status Law (1959) was in effect, and Article 3 also defined marriage as a contract between a man and a woman. After liberation from Iraq, Kuwait reinstated its 1984 Personal Status Law, which continues to define marriage in heterosexual terms.

The Family Code of 1984 defined a marriage as being between a man and a woman, effectively banning same-sex marriage in Honduras. The 2005 constitution also explicitly prohibits the marriage or union between two people of the same sex.

In 1984, New South Wales decriminalised homosexuality but while doing so, set the age of consent to 18 compared to 16 for heterosexual relations.

Homosexual activity between men was decriminalized in New South Wales on 11 May 1984 when the Crimes (Amendment) Act 1984 removed all parts of the Crimes Act 1900 that criminalized consensual sex between men. The Crimes (Amendment) Act 1984 was given assent on 31 May 1984 by NSW Governor Sir James Rowland, but the sections legalising homosexual activity came into effect 20 days earlier.

Section 8(3) of the Births, Marriages and Deaths Registration Act (1983) states: "If after registration of birth, the change in any other particular of a person not provided for in this section has occurred, he, if he is twenty-one years of age, or either of his parents or his guardian of he is under twenty-one years of age, may apply to the Registrar directly or through respective district registrar or assistant district registrar for alteration of such a particular in the births register. Thereupon the Registrar shall, if satisfied that the applicant is competent to make the application and on production of documentary proof (in case of change of sex of the child medical certificate from the medical practitioner shall be produced) and on payment of the prescribed fee, cause the said particular of the person to be altered in the original birth information form filed in his office, but without erasing the original entry, and shall instruct the registration officer of the district or sub-district in which the birth of the person was registered to make a similar inscription in his births register and duplicate birth information form filed in his office." The Act must be interpreted in accordance with the Children’s Protection and Welfare Act. Section 8(3) of the Act should be interpreted to provide for the change of sex or gender in the Register. The Act does not specify that ‘change of sex’ must happen in any specific way, nor does it require documentary proof only from a healthcare provider. Unlike most countries, Eswatini's law effectively makes it easier for legal gender change for minors than for adults. However, the law is largely viewed to not be trans-specific, and it is unclear if trans adults are able to legally change their gender under this law.

When the Northern Territory decriminalised homosexuality in 1984, it set the age of consent to 18 compared to 16 for heterosexuality.

Consensual same-sex activity has been legal in the Northern Territory since 1984.

The 1983 Criminal Code of the Northern Mariana Islands removed all mentions of criminalisation of consensual sodomy and only penalises cases of sodomy without consent as rape, decriminalising homosexuality.

In Misiones, there are no laws restricting the discussion or promotion of LGBTQ+ topics since the end of the military dictatorship in 1983.

In San Luis, there are no laws restricting the discussion or promotion of LGBTQ+ topics since the end of the military dictatorship in 1983.

In Jujuy, there are no laws restricting the discussion or promotion of LGBTQ+ topics since the fall of the military dictatorship in 1983. However, there is still a law from 1951 that prohibits "immoral dancing or dancing between men" at public dances.

In La Pampa, there are no laws restricting the discussion or promotion of LGBTQ+ topics since the end of the military dictatorship in 1983.

In Chubut, there are no laws restricting the discussion or promotion of LGBTQ+ topics since the end of the military dictatorship in 1983.

In Corrientes, there are no laws restricting the discussion or promotion of LGBTQ+ topics since the end of the military dictatorship in 1983.

In Entre Ríos, there are no laws restricting the discussion or promotion of LGBTQ+ topics since the end of the military dictatorship in 1983.

In Tierra del Fuego, there are no laws restricting the discussion or promotion of LGBTQ+ topics since the end of the military dictatorship in 1983.

In Salta, there are no laws restricting the discussion or promotion of LGBTQ+ topics since the end of the military dictatorship in 1983.

In Río Negro, there are no laws restricting the discussion or promotion of LGBTQ+ topics since the end of the military dictatorship in 1983.

In San Juan, there are no laws restricting the discussion or promotion of LGBTQ+ topics since the end of the military dictatorship in 1983.

In 1983, the Code of Misdemeanours in La Rioja contained Article 39 which criminalised people from "bathing in public places in violation of the rules of decency", "exhibiting oneself in public in clothing contrary to public decency" and "inciting minors under 16 years of age to immoral acts". The article lists that homosexuals and those who are "exhibited on public roads or in public places disguised with clothing of the opposite sex" as people who will receive the maximum penalty, implying that homosexuals are viewed as promoting "immoral acts" to minors and trans people are dressing "indecently" and violate rules of decency if they bathe in accordance to their gender identity. These laws would be repealed in 2000.

The 1976 "Karnataka Marriages (Registration and Miscellaneous Provisions) Act" did not explicitly define marriage as between a man and a woman. The law did not receive assent and therefore take effect until 7 years later.

The Mauritanian authorities uses provisions such as “indecency” and “incitation to debauchery” in the 1983 Penal Code on those who challenge the country with LGBT social movements.

Homosexual activity is illegal in Mauritania.

Same-sex adoption is not possible due to homosexual activities being punishable

Same-sex marriage is not possible due to the laws on Homosexual activity

Illegal, public execution by stoning for men, [not enforced]; prison and fines for women Mauritanian representatives informed the United Nations that executions have effectively been suspended since 1987. On April 27, 2018, the National Assembly approved legislation replacing article 306 of the Criminal Code, mandating the death penalty for individuals convicted of "blasphemous speech" and "sacrilegious" acts. However, the death penalty for homosexual acts has not been enforced since 1986. The law removes the option, previously available under article 306, to substitute prison sentences for death penalties for certain apostasy-related offenses upon prompt repentance. Additionally, the law broadens the death penalty's reach to include "renegade acts."

As homosexuality is illegal, serving in the military by LGBTQ+ individuals are also illegal

Trans people require a medical diagnosis in order to change their legal gender in Mississippi.

Wisconsin's age of consent for same-sex and different-sex couple is 18. State Statute provides an exemption for people who are married between the ages of 16 and 17.

Wisconsin repealed its laws against sodomy in 1983. In order to secure enough votes to pass the legislation that repealed the ban on sodomy, legislators agreed to add to the bill that “the state does not condone or encourage any form of sexual conduct outside the institution of marriage.”

In 1983, France introduced an indefinite ban on MSMs from donating blood. Lesbians were also banned until 2002.

In 1983, France introduced an indefinite ban on MSMs from donating blood. Lesbians were also banned until 2002.

In 1983, France introduced an indefinite ban on MSMs from donating blood. Lesbians were also banned until 2002.

In 1983, France introduced an indefinite ban on MSMs from donating blood. Lesbians were also banned until 2002.

In 1983, France introduced an indefinite ban on MSMs from donating blood. Lesbians were also banned until 2002.

In 1983, France introduced an indefinite ban on MSMs from donating blood. Lesbians were also banned until 2002.

Gender affirming care is not banned in Belarus but is extremely difficult to access with huge state overreach resulting in 80% of requests being rejected in 2023 and specialists requiring more “social transition” before even prescribing hormones.

Ukraine provides for gender affirming care but requires the recipient to be 18 to access it. Trans Ukrainian children can get a psychiatric diagnosis but are not afforded access to puberty blockers.

A 2014 HRW report found that while there is no law in Malaysia that prohibits explicitly legal gender recognition most people find it virtually impossible.

Male homosexual acts between adults over the age of 21 were partially decriminalized by the Sexual Offences (Bailiwick of Guernsey) Law 1983.

In 1983, transsexualism began to be professionally diagnosed in the Soviet Union, which allowed the prescription of hormone therapy.

In 1983, transsexualism began to be professionally diagnosed in the Soviet Union, which allowed the prescription of hormone therapy.

In 1983, transsexualism began to be professionally diagnosed in the Soviet Union, which allowed the prescription of hormone therapy.

In 1983, transsexualism began to be professionally diagnosed in the Soviet Union, which allowed the prescription of hormone therapy

In 1983, transsexualism began to be professionally diagnosed in the Soviet Union, which allowed the prescription of hormone therapy

Austria allowed for legal gender recognition for trans people but they must have undergone surgery first. This changed in 2009.

In 1983, in response to the HIV epidemic, the Directorate General of Health banned MSMs from donating blood indefinitely. This ban was reiterated in 2009.

Starting in 1983, the United States implemented a full ban on blood donations from gay men. The primary justification for the ban was the perceived high risk of HIV transmission, with health regulators identifying men who have sex with men (MSM) as a significant risk to the safety of the blood supply.

In 1982, New South Wales amended its anti-discrimination act to add homosexuality as a protected characteristic from discrimination. However, transgender people remained unprotected until 1996.

In 1982, New South Wales added homosexuality as a protected characteristic from discrimination. Other states and territories would pass laws protecting LGBTIQ+ people from discrimination at varying times. The Workplace Relations Act of 1996 provided federal protections from discrimination in employment on the basis of sexual orientation, but federal law wouldn’t include all areas or gender identity until 2013.

In 1982, New South Wales added homosexuality as a protected characteristic from housing discrimination. Other states and territories would pass laws protecting LGBTIQ+ people from housing discrimination at varying times.

In 1982, New South Wales amended its anti-discrimination act to add homosexuality as a protected characteristic from housing discrimination. However, transgender people remained unprotected until 1996.

In 1982, New South Wales added homosexuality as a protected characteristic from employment discrimination. Other states and territories would pass laws protecting LGBTIQ+ people from employment discrimination at varying times. The Workplace Relations Act of 1996 provided federal protections from discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, but some states also provided it to gender identity. Federal law would include gender identity in 2013.

In 1982, New South Wales amended its anti-discrimination act to add homosexuality as a protected characteristic from employment discrimination. However, transgender people remained unprotected until 1996.

15 years after the rest of the UK legalized sexual acts between two men who were 21 or older, the legalisation was extended to Northern Ireland with the "Homosexual Offences (Northern Ireland) Order 1982". The act prohibited sex in places where a third party was likely to be present.

Homosexuality was decriminalised in Portugal in 1982.

In 1982, the age of consent became 15 for both heterosexual and homosexual couples in French Guiana.

In 1982, the age of consent became 15 for both heterosexual and homosexual couples in New Caledonia.

In 1982, the age of consent became 15 for both heterosexual and homosexual couples in Mayotte.

In 1982, the age of consent became 15 for both heterosexual and homosexual couples in Reunion

Under French law, the age of consent is equalised at 15 for both same- and opposite-sex acts since 1982.

In 1982, the age of consent became 15 for both heterosexual and homosexual couples in Guadeloupe.

The age of consent in France is 15 for both male-male, female-female, and male-female sex.

Article 44 of Venezuela’s Penal Code in 1982 states that a marriage may only be entered into by one man and one woman and that otherwise it would not be recognised, effectively banning same-sex marriage.

Homosexual activity is not legal in the Comoros.

The law forbade "sexual acts “against nature.” This is understood to ban same-sex sexual activity, it is punishable by up to 5 years imprisonment and/or a 1,000,000 Comorian franc fine. However, it is not believed to be actively enforced except for the prosecution of a lesbian couple in 2024. The 2024 case is the only known prosecution in the country's history.

Law no. 164 of 14 April 1982 was the first law in Italy to introduce the possibility of changing sex. This law was published in the Official Gazette no. 106 of 19.04.1982 and came into force on 4 May 1982. Before 1982, Transgender people did not have the possibility of changing sex and name, living as if trapped in a biological body that they did not feel was their own. At the end of the 70s there were several protests in Italy by the LGBT movement that pushed politics to take an interest in the issue of sexual transition. With Law 164/1982, however, sex rectification was only possible after surgery.

In 1982, the National Fatwa Council issued a fatwa prohibiting sex reassignment surgery. Although, the fatwa is not legally binding and only applies to Muslims, in practice, this has led to a significant reduction of surgery options for transgender Malaysians, often resorting to go to Thailand to receive such treatment. Hormone therapy, however, remains unbanned.

Before the landmark 2015 decision surgery was required for people to change their legal gender.

In 1982, Republican Governor Dreyfus signed a bill giving LGB people employment discrimination protections, making Wisconsin the first state in the union to do so.

Article 333 bis of the Penal Code, as amended on 13 February 1982 by Law n° 82-04, criminalizes the distribution of anything against "decency" with up to 2 years in prison and a fine up to 2,000 dinars. Article 333, also amended in 1982, criminalizes indecent exposure of any "act against the order of nature with an individual of the same sex" with up to 3 years in prison and a fine up to 10,000 dinars. In January 2023 the Ministry of Commerce announced that all rainbow colored products, including flags, toys, and Qurans, are no longer allowed to be sold in the country. The Algerian government mass SMS texted citizens to warn them of fines for violating this order. In August 2023, Algeria's Ministry of Culture and Arts forced movie theaters to immediately stop showing the film, "Barbie." An official source told Reuters that the film "promotes homosexuality and other Western deviances."

The 1982 legislation governing adoption in Quebec was written gender neutrally, allowing LGB couples to adopt. It states: "any person of full age may, alone or jointly with another person, adopt a child".

Since 1982, Alberta required surgery for legal gender recognition.

Individuals and married couples jointly may petition for adoption per La. CHC 1198, 1202. Second-parent adoption is not legal.

Before the JaParker Deoni Jones Birth Certificate Equality Amendment Act of 2013 trans people could only change their birth certificates upon confirmation of sex reassignment surgery under the D.C. Vital Records Act of 1981.

Until 2015, Nayarit’s Civil Code defined a marriage as being between a man and a woman, effectively banning same-sex marriage. It was ruled unconstitutional by a federal court ruling in 2014.

The 1981 Penal Code of Cote d'Ivoire contained Article 360, which gives a penalty of three months to two years imprisonment for "acts of outrage to public decency". The code also contained a clause stating that if it was an "improper or unnatural act with a person of the same sex", the sentence would be imprisonment from six months to two years instead. There was no information as to whether it was used to persecute LGBTIQ+ people in practice but the explicit provision was removed in the 2019 Penal Code.

In Victoria the law about under-age sex is the same for both men and women and for gay and heterosexual sex.

In 1981, homosexuality was decriminalised in Victoria.

Homosexual activities were legalised in Scotland — on the same basis as that which was used for the 1967 Act – by Section 80 of the Criminal Justice

The 1981 "MUSLIM MARRIAGES REGISTRATION ACT" refers to marriage as between a "bride" and a "bridegroom"

In 1981, the Department of Sexology and Pathology of Interpersonal Relationships was established in Warsaw, which was the first facility in Poland providing help to transgender people, including the diagnosis of gender dysphoria and hormone therapy. Since then, many similar healthcare facilities have been established, including private ones, after the fall of the communist system in Poland.

In reaction to the HIV/AIDS crisis, MSMs were banned from donating blood for life.

The Law on Marriage and Family Relations adopted on June 5, 1980 also recognized two categories of adoption: "incomplete adoption" and "full adoption". In the first case, adoptive parents could be both individuals and married partners (Article 157). In the second case, adoptive parents are married partners, and exceptionally unmarried persons if there are justified reasons for that (Article 191).

Tanzania has a history of enforcing strict laws against the LGBT community. Same-sex sexual activity is illegal and can be punished by imprisonment. The government has also taken steps to restrict LGBT rights organizations and their activities. Public attitudes towards the LGBT community in Tanzania can be quite hostile, which contributes to a challenging environment for individuals who identify as LGBT. It's important to stay informed about the current situation and exercise caution when discussing or engaging in LGBT-related issues in Tanzania. The 1981 Penal Code criminalises selling, distributing or exhibiting "materials that are tending to corrupt morals" in Article 175 which is often used to censor LGBTIQ+ topics.

Section 5 of the Act on the Prohibition of Discrimination on the grounds of Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity and Gender Expression bans discrimination towards LGBTQ+ persons. Norwegian law prohibits discrimination against sexual orientation and gender identity. This extends to housing and employment sectors.

As of 1981, Employment discrimination was outlawed as well as LGBTQ discrimination.

Section 5 of the Act on the Prohibition of Discrimination on the grounds of Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity and Gender Expression bans discrimination towards LGBTQ+ persons. Norway was the first country in the world to enact a law against the discrimination of LGBT people by amending Paragraph 349a of the Norwegian Penal Code. In the same year Paragraph 135a was amended to prohibit hate speech directed at sexual minorities.

A court in the case of New York v Onofre found New York's sodomy ban to be unconstitutional. Two decades later, the state legislature formally repealed the ban.

The age of consent in New York is 17 for heterosexual and homosexual sex.

Section 8 § 1 of the German Transsexuellengesetz (Transsexuals Act of September 10, 1980) states that transgender people can change their first names and gender entry under the condition of gender-affirming surgery, sterilization, and divorce.

Same sex marriage is not legal.

Homosexuality in Togo is punishable by 1-3 years in prison and a 100,000-500,000 CFA fine.

South Dakota requires surgery for legal gender recognition.

The Age of consent in Pennsylvania is 16, and the laws applies equally regardless of gender or orientation.

Homosexual sex has been legal in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania since 1980. In the case of Commonwealth v. Bonadio, the judges declared in a 4-3 decision that the statute that criminalized homosexuality was unconstitutional because it violated the Equal Protection Clause and exceeded the grounds of police power. The decision was made on May 30th, 1980.

In 1980, Cordoba's Code of Misdemeanours added Article 23 which criminalised homosexuals frequenting minors under 18 with 90 days imprisonment, grouping them with "sexually vicious persons". Additionally, Article 19 prohibited people from "exhibiting themselves in public with clothing contrary to public decency", which was viewed as criminalising transgender people and their expression. Both articles would be repealed in 1994.

Sentence T-099 of the Colombian Supreme Court exempted trans women from mandatory military conscription, but did not deprive them of serving in the military if they wish, this option is also valid for trans men. It is also worth highlighting that there has never been any impediment to the military service of homosexual and bisexual men and women.

The age of consent in Colombia is 14 for people of all sexual orientations.

In 1980, homosexuality was removed as a crime from the Penal Code of Colombia.

There are no known laws restricting gender affirming care.

In 2023, the Gender Identity Support Program "Crece con Orgullo" began operating, which is aimed at children and adolescents from 3 to 17 years old, and includes gender-affirmative care. The state program was born under Decree 3 (2019) created by the Regulation of Article 23 of Law No. 21,120, which recognizes and protects the Right to Gender Identity. However, in May 2025, the Chamber of Deputies approved a report that called for the suspension of hormone therapy and surgeries for minors.

Homosexual Activity is Legal in Trentino Alto Adige

Homosexual acts were legalized prior to the federal ruling which legalized homosexuality for all federal jurisdictions in 2003.

Legislative repeal, effective 1980.

Before 2017, blood donations by MSMs were illegal. They remained illegal until the health minister removed such bans.