2000s in LGBT Rights

Number of LGBT-related laws changed over time
  • (date unknown)
    (deleted region)
    LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
    It's against the law for an employer to discriminate against their sexual or gender orientation.
  • January 1
    LGBT discrimination becomes illegal.
    discrimination illegal since 2010
  • (date unknown)
    Conversion therapy becomes sexual orientation only.
    Section 3(1)(d) of the Mental Health Act (Decree No. 54) (2010) states that expressing, refusing, or failing to express a specific sexual preference or sexual orientation should not be grounds for considering someone mentally ill. While this doesn't outright ban "conversion therapy," it does legally prohibit health professionals, especially psychiatrists, from engaging in it.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Some protection for sexual orientation under The Judicial Code of Conduct 2010.
  • January 1
    Same-sex marriage becomes civil unions (marriage rights).
    Civil Union was a recognized status
  • Same-sex marriage becomes legal.
    In 2010, New Hampshire was the fifth state to legalize gay marriage. The bill was signed into law on June 3, 2009.
  • December 22
    LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    There is limited protection based on sexual orientation. The Kenya Information and Communications (Broadcasting) Regulations, 2009, bans incitement to hatred based on sexual preference. The Data Protection Act (2019) states that "sensitive personal data" means "data revealing the natural person's race, health status, ethnic social origin, conscience, belief, genetic data, biometric data, property details, marital status, family details including names of the person's children, parents, spouse or spouses, sex or the sexual orientation of the data subject." Some protections for intersex children under The Children Act 2022. The law requires intersex children to be treated with dignity and have equal access to basic services like medical treatment and education, in addition to social protection services as a special need. It also requires the accommodation of intersex children in child protection centers and other facilities.
  • December 21
    LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2009, Amapa passed Law 1417 which prohibited discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation in housing. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2019.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    In 2009, Amapa passed Law 1417 which prohibited discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation in employment, housing and goods and services. However, there were no protections in education or healthcare. Additionally, gender identity remained unprotected in all areas.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2009, Amapa passed Law 1417 which prohibited discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation in employment. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2019.
  • Same-sex adoption becomes legal.
    On December 21st 2009, Prince Edward Island updated all mentions such as "husband and wife" and "mother and father" to be gender neutral, ensuring same-sex couples the same recognition.
  • December 10
    Serving openly in military becomes legal.
    The Constitutional Court ruled that one’s sexual orientation is not good grounds to terminate service in the police or the military in 2009. There are also no known legal restrictions on transgender people enlisting in the military.
  • November 13
    LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    In 2009, Huancavelica passed Regional Ordinance 145 which prohibited discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation in employment, education, healthcare and goods and services and gender identity in education.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2009, Huancavelica passed Regional Ordinance 145 which prohibited discrimination in employment on the basis of sexual orientation. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2017.
  • November 3
    Same-sex marriage becomes civil unions (limited rights).
    Opponents of the marriage equality in Maine set up a referendum to repeal it. Citizens voted 53% in favor of repealing marriage equality and 47% against, effectively un-legalizing gay marriage. Even after gay marriage was overturned in Maine, the domestic partnerships offered from 2005 were still available for gay couples.
  • October 30
    Blood donations by MSMs becomes legal.
    There is no criteria against MSM donating blood in North Macedonia.
  • October 25
    Right to change legal gender becomes legal, no restrictions.
    Uruguay's Law on the Right to Gender Identity and Change of Name and Sex in Identification Documents was passed in 2009 and provided for legal gender recognition. While neither surgery nor medical diagnosis was required, until 2018, it had to be analysed by a civil registry specialising in gender identity for approval. On October 18, 2018, Uruguay modified the procedure in the Comprehensive Trans Law requiring the applicant to request the amendment before the Honorary Advisory Commission for Identity and Gender Change and provided self-identification.
  • October 21
    Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    Until 2021, Querétaro defined a marriage as between a man and a woman, effectively banning same-sex marriage. However, since 2015, several municipalities recognised marriage.
  • October 16
    Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires surgery.
    In 2009, the Bulgarian Identity Documents Act was amended to provide for a possibility of "changing sex" in identification documents but did not provide any requirements specified nor who could issue such documents. However, in practice, sterilisation and surgery were often required.
  • October 1
    LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    Sexual orientation has been explicitly protected since 2009 in the Alberta Human Rights Act. Gender identity is read-in by the Alberta Human Rights Commission under "gender" though it is not explicit in the Act, however a lengthy tribunal process makes this implicit protection inaccessible to many Albertans.
  • LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    Sexual orientation is officially a protected group. While not explicit in the law, the Alberta Human Rights Commission reads in transgender rights under "gender", but lengthy tribunal process makes this implicit protection inaccessible to many Albertans.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    There remains no explicit protection of transgender people under the Act, though the Alberta Human Rights Commission reads in transgender rights under "gender".
  • Same-sex marriage becomes civil unions (limited rights).
    In 2009, Nevada began offering domestic partnerships, which granted same-sex couples certain rights available to married couples, including hospital visitation, inheritance rights, and employment benefits.
  • September 28
    Serving openly in military becomes legal.
    In 2009, Ecuador removed the provision in its military code that stipulated that homosexuality was a reason to discharge members of the military.
  • (deleted region)
    Same-sex adoption becomes legal.
    Adoption legal for all regardless of marriage status, sexual orientation or gender identity
  • September 25
    LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    In 2009, Madre de Dios passed Regional Ordinance 035 which prohibited discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation in employment, education, goods and services and healthcare and gender identity in education.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2009, Madre de Dios passed Regional Ordinance 035 which prohibited discrimination in employment on the basis of sexual orientation. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2017.
  • September 24
    LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2009, Ceara amended its constitution to prohibit discrimination in housing on the basis of sexual orientation. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2019.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    A constitutional amendment in 2009 prevented all forms of discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation in Ceara. However, gender identity remained unprotected.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2009, Ceara amended its constitution to prohibit discrimination in employment on the basis of sexual orientation. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2019.
  • August 5
    LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    The Law on Prohibition of Discrimination adopted on July 23, 2009 in its original version prohibited discrimination in all areas (including Housing) on the basis of "sexual expression or orientation" among other grounds.
  • LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    Under federal law.
  • LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    Under federal law.
  • LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    Under federal law
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Under federal law.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Under federal law.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Under federal law.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    The Law on Prohibition of Discrimination adopted on July 23, 2009 prohibited discrimination in all areas on the basis of "sexual expression or orientation" among other grounds. The law is applied at the level of the state, entities, cantons and Br?ko District. Due to the use of imprecise terms, the law was amended in 2016.
  • August 3
    Same-sex marriage becomes other type of partnership.
    In 2009, a law was passed in Wisconsin providing for a domestic partnership for same-sex couples with limited rights compared to married couples.
  • July 21
    Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    Until 2013, same-sex marriage was banned in Yucatan, as Article 94 of the state constitution states that only heterosexual couples can legally marry.
  • July 8
    LGBT discrimination becomes illegal.
  • July 2
    Homosexual activity becomes legal.
    In the Delhi High Court case of Naz Foundation v. Govt. of NCT of Delhi, the provision of Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code that criminalized sexual acts between consenting adults was struck down.
  • July 1
    Same-sex marriage becomes civil unions (marriage rights).
    Civil unions are recognized since 2009, a couple in a civil union has the same rights as a married couple, however the partners can’t take each other’s surname and they can’t adopt children. Since 2012, the Constitution of Hungary has defined marriage as a union exclusively between a man and woman; effectively prohibiting same sex marriages.
  • Same-sex adoption becomes second parent adoption only.
    Joint adoption not legal at this time, only adoption of one partners existing children.
  • June 17
    LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
    LGBT Housing discrimination are illegal
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal.
    All discrimination (about the LGBT) are banned in Czech Republic
  • June 14
    Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    In Durango, there are no laws restricting the discussion or promotion of LGBTQ+ topics as its new Penal Code contained no mentions of homosexuality as a "corrupt habit" in its law against corruption of minors.
  • June 9
    Same-sex marriage becomes civil unions (limited rights).
    In 2009, New Caledonia began to recognise civil unions in line with France's laws passed ten years ago.
  • June
    Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires surgery.
    An amandment made in June 2009 to Article 20(1) of the Civil Registration Law allows transgender people to change their legal gender on birth certificates or citizen identification cards following sex reassignment surgery.
  • May 28
    Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires surgery.
    The Vital Statistics Act was passed on May 28th 2009, allowing transgender individuals to change their gender marker after undergoing sex reassignment surgery. Before then, it was not possible to change it in Newfoundland and Labrador.
  • May 15
    Same-sex adoption becomes second parent adoption only.
    Only able to adopt child of the other partner
  • Serving openly in military becomes legal.
    In 2009, Uruguay lifted the ban on LGBTIQ+ people joining the armed forces imposed by the 1973-85 military dictatorship.
  • May 6
    Same-sex marriage becomes legal.
    On May 5th, 2009, the Maine Senate passed a bill 21-13 with one abstained. The bill redefined marriage to terms without gender references. The bill was signed into law the next day by Maine’s Governor at the time, John Baldacci.
  • May 1
    Same-sex marriage becomes legal.
    The Riksdag passed a gender-neutral marriage bill in 2009, making Sweden the seventh country in the world to legalize same-sex marriage.
  • April 24
    Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires medical diagnosis.
    After a court ruling the Civil Status Registry is required to allow people with a diagnosis of gender dysphoria to change their legal gender. However in January 2025, the Administrative Court of Austria ruled that the civil registry should correspond to “biological, physical sex”. However, trans Austrians can currently still change their legal gender.
  • April 22
    Censorship of LGBT issues becomes fine as punishment.
    Article 564 of the Penal Code (2009) forbids the exhibition, sale, or distribution of songs, pamphlets, writings, images, emblems, or other materials “contrary to good morals”. Moreover, individuals who sing, read, recite, or speak obscenities in gatherings or public venues in the presence of multiple people are subject to a fine as punishment. In 2017, Burundi made additional amendments that effectively criminalise trans people with imprisonment under Articles 366 and 367, which criminalise "the use of such falsified, forged or altered documents" with imprisonment and a fine. This includes licenses, certificates and passports.
  • Equal age of consent becomes n/a.
    Homosexuality is illegal in Burundi.
  • Serving openly in military becomes don't ask, don't tell.
    Although there is no law explicitly prohibiting LGBTIQ+ people from serving in the military of Burundi, the criminalisation of homosexuality in 2009 inhibits the ability for them to be open about it in practice.
  • Homosexual activity becomes illegal (imprisonment as punishment).
    Up to 2 years imprisonment and/or up to 50,000 frank fine
  • April 14
    LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    The current legal measures against LGBT discrimination are only limited to the public administration. Protection against LGBT discrimination in: Health: Ministerial Agreement No. 202 (2009), Law 307 (2016). Public empleoyment: Decree No. 56 (2010). Clinical practice for students: Law 227 (2019) Education: Law 431 (2022). Hate crime law includes sexual orientation and gender identity.
  • April 10
    LGBT discrimination becomes no protections.
    On April 9th, 2009, The Court of Appeal, which is the second highest court in Fiji, made a decision saying that the 2006 Fijian coup d'état, where the government of Laisenia Qarase was taken out of power and replaced with military rule, was illegal. President Iloilo issued a statement the following day (April 10th, 2009) saying, "I hereby confirm I have abrogated the 1997 constitution and appointed myself as head of state in the new order." Iloilo immediately assumed all political power in the country. Fiji then was without a Constitution until September 6th, 2013, and so there were no protections against discrimination towards sexual orientation or gender identity.
  • April 7
    LGBT housing discrimination becomes ambiguous.
    The Law on Prohibition of Discrimination from 2009 prohibits discrimination in all areas, but there was no specific article dealing with Housing during this period.
  • Same-sex marriage becomes legal.
    In 2009, Vermont became the third US state to legalize same-sex marriage, following Massachusetts in 2004 and Connecticut in 2008. Vermont was the first state to legalize same-sex marriage by legislative means.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
    Article 16 of the Anti-Discrimination Law from 2009 bans labour discrimination. Discrimination is prohibited on basis of sexual orientation, gender identity and sex characteristics among others.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal.
    On 26 March 2009, Serbian parliament approved a unified anti-discrimination law, known as the Prohibition of Discrimination Act of 2009, which prohibits, among other categories, discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity and sex characteristics in all areas.
  • April 3
    Same-sex marriage becomes legal.
    In 2009, nearly 2 years after the District Court’s ruling was stayed, the Supreme Court of Iowa unanimously upheld Judge Hanson’s ruling that denying marriage to same-sex couples is unconstitutional.
  • March 20
    Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    In Sinaloa, there are no laws restricting the discussion or promotion of LGBTQ+ topics since the removal of homosexuality as a "corrupt habit" in its law against corruption of minors.
  • March 19
    Same-sex adoption becomes legal.
    At the time, gay couples were allowed to have civil unions and thus was able to apply as a couple.
  • March 9
    LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    In 2009, Ayacucho passed Regional Ordinance 010 which prohibited discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation in employment, education, goods and services and healthcare and gender identity in education.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2009, Ayacucho passed Regional Ordinance 010 which prohibited discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation in employment. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2017.
  • March 1
    Blood donations by MSMs becomes banned (5-year deferral).
    Since March 2009, the NZBS has used a 5-year deferral. In 2013, the NZBS reviewed the criteria, and improvements were implemented the following year.
  • February 28
    LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Since 2009, LGBTIQ+ people are protected in the military code of Argentina. In 2009, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in healthcare in Salta under federal Argentine law. However, gender identity remains unprotected. Conversely, in 2021, gender identity became a protected characteristic from discrimination in employment in Salta, also under federal Argentine law, but sexual orientation remains unprotected. Outside of those contexts, there are no discrimination protections provided to LGBTIQ+ people in Salta.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Since 2009, LGBTIQ+ people are protected in the military code of Argentina. In 2009, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in healthcare in Chubut under federal Argentine law. However, gender identity remains unprotected. In 2019, Chubut would pass Law XV-No. 27, which prohibits incitement of hatred on the basis of sexual orientation. However, gender identity remains unprotected. Conversely, in 2021, gender identity became a protected characteristic from discrimination in employment in Chubut, also under federal Argentine law, but sexual orientation remains unprotected. Outside of those contexts, there are no discrimination protections provided to LGBTIQ+ people in Chubut.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Since 2009, LGBTIQ+ people are protected in the military code of Argentina. In 2009, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in healthcare in La Rioja under federal Argentine law. However, gender identity remains unprotected. Conversely, in 2021, gender identity became a protected characteristic from discrimination in employment in La Rioja, also under federal Argentine law, but sexual orientation remains unprotected. Later in 2021, La Rioja would ban all forms of discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Since 2009, LGBTIQ+ people are protected in the military code of Argentina. In 2009, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in healthcare in Santa Cruz under federal Argentine law. In 2021, Santa Cruz passed the Comprehensive Law on the Recognition and Historical Reparation of the Rights of Transgender People which prohibited all forms of discrimination on the basis of gender identity. However, sexual orientation remains unprotected outside of healthcare.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Since 2009, LGBTIQ+ people are protected in the military code of Argentina. In 2009, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in healthcare in San Luis under federal Argentine law. However, gender identity remains unprotected. Conversely, in 2021, gender identity became a protected characteristic from discrimination in employment in San Luis, also under federal Argentine law, but sexual orientation remains unprotected. Outside of those contexts, there are no discrimination protections provided to LGBTIQ+ people in San Luis.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Since 2009, LGBTIQ+ people are protected in the military code of Argentina. In 2009, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in healthcare in Misiones under federal Argentine law. However, gender identity remains unprotected. Conversely, in 2021, gender identity became a protected characteristic from discrimination in employment in Misiones, also under federal Argentine law, but sexual orientation remains unprotected. Outside of those contexts, there are no discrimination protections provided to LGBTIQ+ people in Misiones.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Since 2009, LGBTIQ+ people are protected in the military code of Argentina. In 2009, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in healthcare in Neuquen under federal Argentine law. However, gender identity remains unprotected. Conversely, in 2021, gender identity became a protected characteristic from discrimination in employment in Neuquen, also under federal Argentine law, but sexual orientation remains unprotected. Outside of those contexts, there are no discrimination protections provided to LGBTIQ+ people in Neuquen.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Since 2009, LGBTIQ+ people are protected in the military code of Argentina. In 2009, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in healthcare in Tierra del Fuego under federal Argentine law. However, gender identity remains unprotected. Conversely, in 2021, gender identity became a protected characteristic from discrimination in employment in Tierra del Fuego, also under federal Argentine law, but sexual orientation remains unprotected. Outside of those contexts, there are no discrimination protections provided to LGBTIQ+ people in Tierra del Fuego.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Since 2009, LGBTIQ+ people are protected in the military code of Argentina. In 2009, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in healthcare in Tucuman under federal Argentine law. However, gender identity remains unprotected. Conversely, in 2021, gender identity became a protected characteristic from discrimination in employment in Tucuman, also under federal Argentine law, but sexual orientation remains unprotected. Outside of those contexts, there are no discrimination protections provided to LGBTIQ+ people in Tucuman.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Since 2009, LGBTIQ+ people are protected in the military code of Argentina. In 2009, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in healthcare in Mendoza under federal Argentine law. However, gender identity remains unprotected. Conversely, in 2021, gender identity became a protected characteristic from discrimination in employment in Mendoza, also under federal Argentine law, but sexual orientation remains unprotected. Outside of those contexts, there are no discrimination protections provided to LGBTIQ+ people in Mendoza.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Since 2009, LGBTIQ+ people are protected in the military code of Argentina. In 2009, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in healthcare in La Pampa under federal Argentine law. However, gender identity remains unprotected. Conversely, in 2021, gender identity became a protected characteristic from discrimination in employment in La Pampa, also under federal Argentine law, but sexual orientation remains unprotected. Outside of those contexts, there are no discrimination protections provided to LGBTIQ+ people in La Pampa.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Since 2009, LGBTIQ+ people are protected in the military code of Argentina. In 2009, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in healthcare in Jujuy under federal Argentine law. However, gender identity remains unprotected. Conversely, in 2021, gender identity became a protected characteristic from discrimination in employment in Jujuy, also under federal Argentine law, but sexual orientation remains unprotected. Outside of those contexts, there are no discrimination protections provided to LGBTIQ+ people in Jujuy.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Since 2009, LGBTIQ+ people are protected in the military code of Argentina. In 2009, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in healthcare in Formosa under federal Argentine law. However, gender identity remains unprotected. Conversely, in 2021, gender identity became a protected characteristic from discrimination in employment in Formosa, also under federal Argentine law, but sexual orientation remains unprotected. Outside of those contexts, there are no discrimination protections provided to LGBTIQ+ people in Formosa.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Since 2009, LGBTIQ+ people are protected in the military code of Argentina. In 2009, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in healthcare in Entre Rios under federal Argentine law. However, gender identity remains unprotected. Conversely, in 2021, gender identity became a protected characteristic from discrimination in employment in Entre Rios, also under federal Argentine law, but sexual orientation remains unprotected. Outside of those contexts, there are no discrimination protections provided to LGBTIQ+ people in Entre Rios.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Since 2009, LGBTIQ+ people are protected in the military code of Argentina. In 2009, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in healthcare in Corrientes under federal Argentine law. However, gender identity remains unprotected. Conversely, in 2021, gender identity became a protected characteristic from discrimination in employment in Corrientes, also under federal Argentine law, but sexual orientation remains unprotected. Outside of those contexts, there are no discrimination protections provided to LGBTIQ+ people in Corrientes.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Since 2009, LGBTIQ+ people are protected in the military code of Argentina. In 2009, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in healthcare in Catamarca under federal Argentine law. However, gender identity remains unprotected. Conversely, in 2021, gender identity became a protected characteristic from discrimination in employment in Catamarca, also under federal Argentine law, but sexual orientation remains unprotected. Outside of those contexts, there are no discrimination protections provided to LGBTIQ+ people in Catamarca.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Since 2009, LGBTIQ+ people are protected in the military code of Argentina. In 2009, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in healthcare in Santa Fe under federal Argentine law. However, gender identity remains unprotected. Conversely, in 2021, gender identity became a protected characteristic from discrimination in employment in Santa Fe, also under federal Argentine law, but sexual orientation remains unprotected. Outside of those contexts, there are no discrimination protections provided to LGBTIQ+ people in Santa Fe.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Argentina recognizes international convention on human rights. LGBT individuals are explicitly protected in the military code in 2009 but are not explicitly included in the general discrimination protection code except for sexual orientation in healthcare. Since 2015, some regions like Buenos Aires City have provided complete protections from discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity.
  • Serving openly in military becomes legal.
    Following a military reform law by the Argentine parliament, LGBTIQ+ people can serve in the military since 2009.
  • February 25
    LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
    In 2009, Michoacán added gender identity as a protected characteristic in its anti-discrimination law, including in housing.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
    In 2009, Michoacán added gender identity as a protected characteristic in its anti-discrimination law, including in employment.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal.
    In 2009, Michoacan added gender identity as a protected characteristic in its anti-discrimination law.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes varies by region.
    Since 2009, several states and Mexico City have been adding gender identity as a protected characteristic to its anti discrimination laws. Sexual orientation remains protected under federal Mexican law.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes varies by region.
    Since 2003, the Federal Law to Prevent and Eliminate Discrimination has defined in Article 9, sections III and IV, the following as acts of negative discrimination: • Prohibiting the free choice of employment or restricting opportunities for access, retention, and promotion within it. • Creating differences in wages, benefits, and working conditions for equal work. This is directly related to sexual orientation, as the former Article 4 of this law (renumbered as Article 1, section III after the 2022 reform) explicitly includes it as a basis for potential discrimination. Subsequently, in 2014, section V was added to the same Article 9, stating that creating differences in wages, benefits, and working conditions for equal work is also considered another act of negative discrimination. In 2012, Article 2 of the Mexican Federal Labour Law was amended to explicitly include sexual orientation in the list of factors for which employers, both public and private, must not discriminate against their workers. This reform aimed to foster dignified working environments that uphold human dignity. Similarly, Article 3 was also revised to state that work is a right and a social responsibility; it is not a commodity. Therefore, no discriminatory practices based on workers' sexual orientation may be allowed. Likewise, since then, Article 56 has stipulated that working conditions may never be less favourable than those established by the Law and must be proportional to the importance of the services provided and equal for equal work, with no differences or exclusions based on sexual orientation. Since 2009, states have been provided further protections based on gender identity.
  • LGBT housing discrimination becomes varies by region.
    Article 1(3) of the Federal Act to Prevent and Eliminate Discrimination (2003) includes “sexual preferences” as one of the prohibited grounds of discrimination. This law applies to housing as per Article 9(XXI). Gender identity is not explicitly mentioned but some states provide protections on the basis of gender identity as well since 2009.
  • February 10
    Censorship of LGBT issues becomes imprisonment as punishment.
    Discussions surrounding LGBTIQ+ topics are heavily restricted and subjected to harassment and violence by both state and non-state actors in South Sudan. Additionally, the 2008 Penal Code criminalises “any male person who dresses or is attired in the fashion of a woman” in public with three months in prison under Section 379, effectively criminalising the gender expression of trans women and cross dressers.
  • February 6
    Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    The 2008 " RECORDING OF MARRIAGE ACT" (taking effect the next year) specifically refers to a "male" and a "female" partner.
  • February 5
    Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    The 2009 Constitution of Bolivia contains Article 63, which defines a marriage as being between “una mujer y un hombre” (a woman and a man), effectively banning same-sex marriage.
  • January 29
    Same-sex marriage becomes other type of partnership.
    A Colombia court ruling implies that even though there are no specific legal provisions, same sex couples can now file for the same right and protection like a different-sex marriage using the provision of a "de facto union" in the 1991 constitution
  • (date unknown)
    Gender-affirming care becomes restricted.
    Some may happen however it requires the approval of authorities and transgender people even after transition face abuse from peers and police alike. Additionally trans people are not allowed to make the pilgrimage to Mecca. However since 2014, Saudi Arabia has passed multiple medical directives to ensure that only intersex people have access to such care while criminalising it for trans people.
  • Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    The so called Civil Code (Law no. 287/2009) places a statutory ban on same-sex marriage in Romania.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires surgery.
    Requirements for transgender people to change their legal gender on their birth certificate vary by county. In some locations sex reassignment surgery is required, while other locations only require that the individual has received “appropriate treatment” according to a physician.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires medical diagnosis.
    Requires a gender recognition document. Additionally, you must have the consent of your married parnter
  • January 1
    Censorship of LGBT issues becomes imprisonment as punishment.
    The penal code criminalizes "public expression of love" between persons of the same sex is imprisonment for six months to two years or a fine of between 150,000 and 600,000 CFA francs ($300 and $1,200). When one of the participants is a child, the adult may be sentenced to two to five years' imprisonment or a fine of 100,000 to 800,000 CFA francs ($200 and $1,600); however, there were no reports that police arrested or detained persons [in 2012] under these provisions.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
    Article 8 of the Anti-Discrimination Law from 2008 bans labour discrimination. Discrimination is prohibited on basis of sexual orientation, gender identity and expression among others.
  • Same-sex marriage becomes legal.
    No one lives there. Norwegian law however legalizes gay marriage
  • (date unknown)
    LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    There is full discrimination protection in 24 cities and 11 counties in Florida. As well as sexual orientation protection under Florida hate crime law. state wide gender identity discrimination protection under section VII. Some cities and counties have offered some protection, but at the state level there is none.
  • January 1
    LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2009, a constitutional order came into effect in the Falkland Islands, prohibiting discrimination in housing on the basis of sexual orientation. However, gender identity remains unprotected.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    In 2009, a constitutional amendment went into effect in the Falkland Islands prohibiting discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation. However, gender identity remains in protected.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    According to the 2008 Constitution Order in effect in 2009, rejecting employment due to sexual orientation is illegal in the Falkland Islands.
  • LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
    Article 8 of the Anti-Discrimination Act from 2008 bans discrimination in Housing. Discrimination is prohibited on basis of sexual orientation, gender identity and expression among others.
  • (date unknown)
    Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    Under the Article 295 of the North Korean Criminal Law, the age of consent is 15 irrespectively of gender of parties.
  • January 1
    LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
    Rejecting job applications due to sexual orientation, race, sex and others is illegal.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    The Constitution prohibits any kind of discrimination (but it is unclear how it applies to LGBT people). The Equal Treatment Act only prohibits discrimination in employment, not in the general provision of goods and services.
  • LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
    Housing discimination due to sexual orientation, change of legal gender, crossgender identity and expression are illegal. (I am unsure if it was illegal due to legal gender change and sexual orientation before 2009.)
  • Serving openly in military becomes legal.
    Protection against discrimination in the Swedish Armed Forces is explicitly stated. In 2015, Sweden even ran a campaign encouraging LGBT people to serve openly. The campaign featured a poster of an individual in camouflage with a rainbow flag badge on her arm, with the headline, "some things you should not have to camouflage." The poster read, "Equality is an essential ingredient in a democracy. In the military, we treat them with respect and see the differences of others as a fortress. We are an inclusive organisation where all the people who serve and contribute feel welcome and respected."
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal.
    The Penal Code has prohibited discrimination against homosexual men, lesbians, and bisexuals since 1987. A new, consolidated anti-discrimination code (Discrimination Act 2008:567) was added to in 2008 and went into effect on January 1, 2009, which includes transgender identity or expression.
  • Same-sex adoption becomes legal.
  • Same-sex marriage becomes legal.
  • Same-sex adoption becomes legal.
  • Same-sex marriage becomes legal.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal.
    On July 9, 2008, the Croatian Parliament approved a unified anti-discrimination law, known as Law on Suppression of Discrimination which prohibits, among other categories, discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity and expression in all areas.
  • Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    Ethiopia's federal law places a statutory ban on same-sex marriage.
  • Same-sex adoption becomes legal.
    In Norway, until 2018, only married couples were able to adopt. In 2009 same-sex Norwegians were given the right to marry and therefore to adopt.
  • (date unknown)
    Same-sex adoption becomes ambiguous.
    Cambodia banned adoption by gay and lesbian foreigners. It is unclear if gay and lesbian Cambodians could adopt.
  • January 1
    Same-sex marriage becomes legal.
    In 2009, same-sex couples were granted marriage rights, making Norway the sixth country in the world to recognise same-sex marriage. Norway was also the first Nordic sovereign state to approve gay marriage.
  • December 19
    Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires surgery.
    Amended Act No.111 of 2003 requires for transgender people to change their legal gender, (1) be at least 20 years of age, (2) not currently married, (3) no child less than 20 years, (4) infertile (no gonads or persistent lack of gonadal function), (5) and has a body which appears to have genital parts of those of the opposite sex. And also requires medical certificate by two or more psychiatrist.
  • December 18
    Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    The 2008 Family Code of San Luis Potosí contained Article 105 which defined a marriage as between a man and a woman, effectively banning same-sex marriage.
  • November 29
    LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Some protections based on sexual orientation. The Medical Practitioners (Code of Conduct and Standards of Practice) Regulations 2008: -Section 4(h) states that a medical practitioner shall render medical service to any person regardless of their sexual orientation. -Section 25(13) on "Working with colleagues in consultation" states that a medical practitioner shall not discriminate against colleagues because of their sexual preferences. The Data Protection Act (2023) states that "Sensitive personal data" means personal data consisting of information on a data subject’s sexual orientation or sexual life. No law expressly prohibits discrimination based on gender identity or gender expression.
  • November 26
    Censorship of LGBT issues becomes imprisonment as punishment.
    Since 2008, Indonesia regularly censors LGBTIQ+ content. Laws against pornography prohibit content relating to "deviant intercourse", which has been interpreted to include homosexuality, even when there is no explicit imagery involved. Some popular LGBT websites have also been banned. Nevertheless, LGBT movies are most times free to be broadcasted in Indonesian cinemas. Since 2016, there has been an increase in persecution of LGBTIQ+ people in Indonesia with several people arrested under vague pornography laws and repeated attempts at criminalisation.
  • Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    Cohabitation agreement, corresponding to civil union, was instituted in Greece, in November 26, 2008, only available to opposite-sex couples. In April 2006, former President of the PA.SO.K. party, George Papandreou proposed to Parliament the recognition of unmarried same-sex or heterosexual couples. However, the project was not accepted by the LGBT organizations as it was considered that it would not have any benefit in their rights, since it prohibited the adoption of children.
  • November 5
    Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    Banned by Proposition 8 being passed within the state’s constitution.
  • November 4
    Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    Palau's Constitution defines marriage as between a man and a woman. The same-sex marriage ban was added to the Constitution in 2008. The ban was among the 22 amendments passed during the November 4, 2008 referendum.
  • October 28
    Same-sex marriage becomes legal.
    In 2008, Connecticut became the first US state to legalize same-sex marriage, following Massachusetts in 2004.
  • October 20
    LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
    Article 11(2) of the Constitution of Ecuador (2008) prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
    In 1998, Ecuador became the first country in the Americas (and only the third worldwide after South Africa and Fiji) to include sexual orientation as a protected category in its Constitution. An unofficial English language translation of Article 11(2) states: All persons are equal and shall enjoy the same rights, duties and opportunities. No one shall be discriminated against for reasons of ethnic belonging, place of birth, age, sex, gender identity, cultural identity, civil status, language, religion, ideology, political affiliation, legal record, socio-economic condition, migratory status, sexual orientation, health status, HIV carrier, disability, physical difference or any other distinguishing feature, whether personal or collective, temporary or permanent, which might be aimed at or result in the diminishment or annulment of recognition, enjoyment or exercise of rights. All forms of discrimination are punishable by law. The State shall adopt affirmative action measures that promote real equality for the benefit of the rights-bearers who are in a situation of inequality. In 2015, a labor law reform made it illegal for employers to discriminate against people due to their sexual orientation. In June 2018, the Justice Ministry approved a new policy concerning the rights of LGBT people. The policy aims to guarantee and strengthen their rights in relation to health, education, work, security, social protection and justice.
  • Same-sex marriage becomes civil unions (marriage rights).
    Although marriage is still defined as a union between a man and a woman, article 68 of the 2008 constitution also state: The stable and monogamous union between two persons without any other marriage ties who have a common-law home, for the lapse of time and under the conditions and circumstances provided for by law, shall enjoy the same rights and obligations of those families bound by formal marriage ties.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal.
    In the 1998 constitution, article 23.3 extended discrimination protection to sexual orientations. In its 2008 constitution included gender identity in its protection in article 11.2
  • October 14
    LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Discrimination based on sexual orientation is prohibited by the following legal provisions: -The Freedom of Information (General) Regulations (2008) -Public Lands Law (2017)
  • October 8
    Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    In Buenos Aires Province, there are no laws restricting the discussion or promotion of LGBTQ+ topics since the repeal of a section of the misdemeanours section in Law 8031 which criminalised "dressing and pretending to be a person of the opposite sex in daily life" in 2008.
  • September 26
    LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    In 2008, Santiago del Estero passed Law 6906 which prohibited discrimination in any context on the basis of sexual orientation. However, gender identity is only protected in employment under a federal law in 2021.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2008, Santiago del Estero began providing protections from discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation under an amendment to Law 6906. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2021.
  • LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    The Code of Offenses of the Province of Santiago del Estero (2008) prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation.
  • September 16
    Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    In Santiago del Estero, there are no laws restricting the discussion or promotion of LGBTQ+ topics since the repeal of laws criminalising people who are "publicly exhibited with clothes of another sex" in 2008.
  • September 12
    Same-sex adoption becomes legal.
    Under federal law since 2015. Single adoption, joint adoption for married couples and second parent adoption for married couples are all allowed for LGBT people. In Kentucky, businesses can discriminate against LGBT people on the basis of religion. While it is unclear if this also applies to adoption agencies, such a case has been brought up in court and ended up with the judge resigning.
  • September 1
    Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    In 2008, Coahuila amended its "corruption of minors" law in the penal code to remove "homosexual practices" as a "corrupt habit". Since then, there are no laws restricting the discussion or promotion of LGBTQ+ topics.
  • August 30
    LGBT discrimination becomes illegal.
    From 2008 onwards, gender identity began to be included in anti-discrimination laws in different cases in Portugal.
  • August 23
    LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    Aricle 5 of the 2008 Labour Law prohibits employment discrimination. Sexual orientation is one of explicitly mentioned grounds.
  • August 19
    Same-sex marriage becomes unregistered cohabitation.
    In 2008, San Juan provided the ability of same-sex couples to be recognised as an unregistered cohabitation under federal Argentine law.
  • Same-sex marriage becomes unregistered cohabitation.
    In 2008, San Luis provided the ability of same-sex couples to be recognised as an unregistered cohabitation under federal Argentine law.
  • Same-sex marriage becomes unregistered cohabitation.
    In 2008, Santa Cruz provided the ability of same-sex couples to be recognised as an unregistered cohabitation under federal Argentine law.
  • Same-sex marriage becomes unregistered cohabitation.
    In 2008, Santa Fe provided the ability of same-sex couples to be recognised as an unregistered cohabitation under federal Argentine law.
  • Same-sex marriage becomes unregistered cohabitation.
    In 2008, Santiago del Estero provided the ability of same-sex couples to be recognised as an unregistered cohabitation under federal Argentine law.
  • Same-sex marriage becomes unregistered cohabitation.
    In 2008, Tierra del Fuego provided the ability of same-sex couples to be recognised as an unregistered cohabitation under federal Argentine law.
  • Same-sex marriage becomes unregistered cohabitation.
    In 2008, Tucuman provided the ability of same-sex couples to be recognised as an unregistered cohabitation under federal Argentine law.
  • Same-sex marriage becomes unregistered cohabitation.
    In 2008, Salta provided the ability of same-sex couples to be recognised as an unregistered cohabitation under federal Argentine law.
  • Same-sex marriage becomes unregistered cohabitation.
    In 2008, Neuquen provided the ability of same-sex couples to be recognised as an unregistered cohabitation under federal Argentine law.
  • Same-sex marriage becomes unregistered cohabitation.
    In 2008, Misiones provided the ability of same-sex couples to be recognised as an unregistered cohabitation under federal Argentine law.
  • Same-sex marriage becomes unregistered cohabitation.
    In 2008, Mendoza provided the ability of same-sex couples to be recognised as an unregistered cohabitation under federal Argentine law.
  • Same-sex marriage becomes unregistered cohabitation.
    In 2008, La Rioja provided the ability of same-sex couples to be recognised as an unregistered cohabitation under federal Argentine law.
  • Same-sex marriage becomes unregistered cohabitation.
    In 2008, La Pampa provided the ability of same-sex couples to be recognised as an unregistered cohabitation under federal Argentine law.
  • Same-sex marriage becomes unregistered cohabitation.
    In 2008, Jujuy provided the ability of same-sex couples to be recognised as an unregistered cohabitation under federal Argentine law.
  • Same-sex marriage becomes unregistered cohabitation.
    In 2008, Formosa provided the ability of same-sex couples to be recognised as an unregistered cohabitation under federal Argentine law.
  • Same-sex marriage becomes unregistered cohabitation.
    In 2008, Entre Rios provided the ability of same-sex couples to be recognised as an unregistered cohabitation under federal Argentine law.
  • Same-sex marriage becomes unregistered cohabitation.
    In 2008, Cordoba provided the ability of same-sex couples to be recognised as an unregistered cohabitation under federal Argentine law.
  • Same-sex marriage becomes unregistered cohabitation.
    In 2008, Corrientes provided the ability of same-sex couples to be recognised as an unregistered cohabitation under federal Argentine law.
  • Same-sex marriage becomes unregistered cohabitation.
    In 2008, Chubut provided the ability of same-sex couples to be recognised as an unregistered cohabitation under federal Argentine law.
  • Same-sex marriage becomes unregistered cohabitation.
    In 2008, Chaco provided the ability of same-sex couples to be recognised as an unregistered cohabitation under federal Argentine law.
  • Same-sex marriage becomes unregistered cohabitation.
    In 2008, Catamarca provided the ability of same-sex couples to be recognised as an unregistered cohabitation under federal Argentine law.
  • Same-sex marriage becomes unregistered cohabitation.
    In 2008, Buenos Aires provided the ability of same-sex couples to be recognised as an unregistered cohabitation under federal Argentina law.
  • August 5
    Gender-affirming care becomes legal.
    Gender Redetermination Decree No. 88/2008/ND-CP specifies the rules of care for transgender people, including: 3. Gender reassignment treatment: a) At the request of the person re-establishing gender, the research and treatment facility will select the gender that will have appropriate treatment methods, maintaining the principle that in the case of a given gender, the person being determined will be the gender that best integrates life mentally, physiologically and socially; b) The research and treatment facility determines the age of the person applying for gender reassignment surgery, making sure that it is the earliest age; c) Medical and therapeutic research centers recommend surgical treatment and postoperative hormonal treatment.
  • August 4
    Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires surgery.
    Montenegro passed Law No. 01-382/13 in 2008 which provides for legal gender recognition. However, surgery is required.
  • July 29
    Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    The age of consent was set equally at 18 with the decriminilization of homosexuality in 2008.
  • Homosexual activity becomes legal.
    Same-sex sexual activity was legalized in Panama through a presidential decree on July 29th, 2008, repealing a 1949 law which would incur those convicted with a 500$ fine or prison sentence. The age of consent was equalized at 18 and homosexuality was declassifed as a mental illness subsequently.
  • July 14
    LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Some legal protections based on sexual orientation/preference are in place. Ministerial Order No. 012/CAB.MIN/ETPS/062/08 (2008) states that "Any private employment service is prohibited from issuing or publishing job vacancy announcements or job offers containing indications of discrimination based on sexual preference." Articles 3 and 4 of the Law on the Protection of the rights of people living with HIV/AIDS and of those affected (2008) prohibit acts of stigmatization and discrimination against people living with HIV/AIDS, their sexual partners, their children or parents based on their “proven or suspected HIV status”. Among those protected by the law under the category of “vulnerable groups”, Article 2(5) includes “homosexuals”. Article 132 of Law 20/017 (2020) states: "The collection and processing of personal data revealing racial, ethnic or regional origin, parentage, political opinions, religious or philosophical beliefs, trade union membership, sexual life, genetic data or, more generally, data relating to the state of health of the person concerned is prohibited." Article 245(2) of Law 23/10 on the Digital Code (2023) offers protection of personal data that reveals data concerning a person's natural sex life or sexual orientation.
  • July 8
    Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Since the repeal of the previous law and that which criminalises same sex sexual activity in Nicaragua, there are no laws restricting the discussion or promotion of LGBTQ+ topics. However, since the 2018 crackdown on student protests, LGBTIQ+ organisations have faced harassment and de facto restrictions from the government.
  • Homosexual activity becomes legal.
    Nicaragua legalized homosexuality in 2008 after a new penal code was adopted. Under the new penal code, consensual gay sex was not included as a criminal offense.
  • June 30
    LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    In 2008, Apurimac passed Regional Ordinance 17 which prohibited discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation in employment, education, goods and services and healthcare and gender identity in education.
  • Conversion therapy becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2008, Apurimac passed Regional Ordinance 017 which banned conversion therapy from being practiced to change one’s sexual orientation. However, there was no such ban provided on conversion therapy on the basis of gender identity.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes varies by region.
    In 2008, Apurimac became the first department of Peru to provide protections from discrimination in employment to LGBTIQ+ people. Other departments would do the same until Peru passed federal protections in 2017.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2008, Apurimac approved Regional Ordinance 17 which prohibited discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation in employment. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2017.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes varies by region.
    In 2008, Apurimac became the first department of Peru to provide protections from discrimination to LGBTIQ+ people. Other departments would do the same until Peru passed federal protections in 2017.
  • Conversion therapy becomes varies by region.
    Article 9(3)(d) of Regional Ordinance of Apurimac No. 017-2008 (2008) prohibits forcing a person to undergo medical and/or psychological treatment in order to alter or modify their sexual orientation.
  • June 18
    Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    In San Luis Potosí, there are no laws restricting the discussion or promotion of LGBTQ+ topics since the removal of homosexuality as a "corrupt habit" in its law against corruption of minors.
  • June 16
    Same-sex marriage becomes legal.
    Same-sex marriage in California was briefly legal in 2008, before being overturned five months later.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Some protections from harassment based on sexual orientation in policing since 2008.
  • June 1
    Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires medical diagnosis.
    New Zealand requires evidence of medical treatment and to go to the family court to change one's legal gender marker.
  • May 29
    Same-sex marriage becomes foreign same-sex marriages recognized only.
    In this context, "foreign" is defined as same-sex marriages legally performed in other jurisdictions but heretofore unrecognized by New York State.
  • May 22
    Homosexual activity becomes illegal (imprisonment as punishment).
    While an autonomous region of Sudan, South Sudan passed The Penal Code Act, 2008. It removed the death penalty as a punishment for homosexual sex. However, homosexuality is still a crime punishable by imprisonment and possibly a fine. Article 248 punishes "carnal intercourse against the order of nature" with up to 10 years imprisonment and the possibility of being liable to a fine.
  • May 19
    Same-sex marriage becomes other type of partnership.
    In 2008, the Australian Capital Territory had provided same-sex couples with the possibility of recognition as a civil partnership. However, marriage was still off limits. In 2013, the Australian Capital Territory briefly allowed same-sex marriage, but it was immediately overturned by the high court.
  • May 5
    LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    Article 315 of the Criminal Code (2008) bans employment discrimination based on sexual option in Nicaragua. However, gender identity remains unprotected.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Legal measures against discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation exist in the workplace (2008) and in health (2014).
  • May 1
    Equal age of consent becomes unequal.
    The age of consent in for anal sex in Canada is 18, whereas the age of consent for acts of sex is 16.
  • April 30
    Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires medical diagnosis.
    In 2008, Pakistan allowed a trans man to legally change his gender but made legal gender recognition only legal with a diagnosis of gender dysphoria until 2018.
  • Gender-affirming care becomes restricted.
    In 2008, Pakistan allowed a trans man to undergo gender affirming healthcare but it was restricted to only people with a medical diagnosis for gender dysphoria until 2018.
  • April 16
    Blood donations by MSMs becomes legal.
    In 2008, Russia repealed its ban against gay people donating blood. The decree repealing the ban was signed into law on April 16th, 2008, by Tatyana Golikova, the Minister of Russia's Health and Social Development department.
  • April 1
    LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
    In 2008, Slovakia passed an amendment to its Law on Equal Treatment in Certain Areas and Protection against Discrimination by adding sexual orientation and gender identification as protected characteristics from discrimination in employment.
  • March
    Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    Nicaraguan law does not specify a homosexual age of consent and a heterosexual one.
  • February 29
    Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    The "KERALA REGISTRATION OF MARRIAGES (COMMON) RULES, 2008" explicitly refers to marriage as between a "husband" and "wife".
  • February 3
    Same-sex marriage becomes other type of partnership.
    The terminology for same sex union used is domestic partnership. Same-sex marriage from other states are also recognized in oregon.
  • January 23
    Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    The "Compulsory Registration of Marriages Rules, 2008" defines marriage as "between a male and female".
  • January 15
    Blood donations by MSMs becomes legal.
    The first version of the questionnaire stated that male homosexuals, African citizens from countries infected with malaria, uneducated people, as well as other categories of people cannot donate blood in Romania. After the hearings of the Council for Combating Discrimination, the Ministry of Health removed the questions considered discriminatory from the questionnaire.
  • January 10
    LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    In 2008, Rio Negro passed Law 3055 which prohibited discrimination in any context on the basis of sexual orientation. However, gender identity is only protected in employment under a federal law in 2021.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2008, Rio Negro began providing protections from discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation under an amendment to Law 3055. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2021.
  • LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    Law B-3055, which establishes the innate right of persons to a sexual orientation, prohibits discrimination.
  • (date unknown)
    Same-sex adoption becomes legal.
    In 2008, New Brunswick revised their adoption regulations to allow LGB couples to adopt.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal.
    illegal since 2008
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires surgery.
    Since 2008, changing the legal gender marker requires the surgical removal of sexual organs under the administrative rules No. 0970066240 issued by the Ministry of Interior. Since 2021, there have been several court cases in which plaintiffs have been able to change their gender without undergoing surgery. However, these rulings are favorable only in individual cases. 1988, with surgery requirements and two psychiatric diagnosis certificates. Since 2021, no surgery requirements case by a Taiwan court ruling
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Some protections based on sexual orientation. The Electronic Transactions Act (2008) protects sexual orientation as personal information. The interpretation of the Data Protection Act (2012) establishes protection of the sexual orientation of the data subject as "special personal data".
  • January 1
    LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    Article 6(2) of Law No. 7 (2008) prohibits discrimination based on "sexual orientation" in employment.
  • Blood donations by MSMs becomes legal.
    There are no restrictions for blood donations by MSMs.
  • (date unknown)
    Right to change legal gender becomes illegal.
    In 2008, Tennessee allowed the changing of gender markers on drivers’ licenses provided that surgery has been undertaken. However, changing one’s birth certificate is prohibited.
  • January 1
    Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires surgery.
    The gender marker on identity documents can only be changed if the applicant has undergone gender affirmation surgery, specifically genital surgery. The petitioner must submit their request for a change of gender marker before the Civil Section of the Local Court. Next, the request is submitted to the National Commission for Comprehensive Attention to Trans People, together with the medical certification that the petitioner has undergone surgery. The following evidence must be accredited before the court: (1) the summary of the clinical records, (2) the descriptive medical criteria of the surgery with emphasis on its irreversibility, (3) a document confirming the intervention signed by the CENESEX, and (4) photographic records from before and after the intervention. Gender affirming surgery and hormonal treatment are provided and covered by the national health system since 2008 (Resolution No. 126). Since 2022, transgender people can change their name through self-determination. Instruction #1 of 2022 of the Ministry of Justice repealed Instruction #1 of 2012 that made the name change for trans people subject to a change of sex, following genital adjustment surgery.
  • Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    Same-sex marriage is banned in Tajikistan
  • (date unknown)
    Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires surgery.
    Since 2008, transgender people in Georgia can change documents and personal names to reflect their preferred gender after having undergone sex reassignment surgery.
  • January 1
    Serving openly in military becomes legal.
    LGBT allowed to serve openly in the military since 2008.
  • (date unknown)
    LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
    State law provides for protections against employment discrimination in regards to both sexual orientation and gender identification.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Some protections based on sexual orientation. Article 18 of Law 2017-27 on the Press Code states that "Journalists and media technicians must respect human dignity and avoid any allusion, through text, images, and sound, to a person's ethnic or national affiliation, religion, gender, or sexual orientation, as well as to any physical or mental illness or disability that may be discriminatory and/or stigmatizing. Article 431-24 of the Penal Code (Law on Cybercrime 2008) states that Anyone who places or stores on a computer medium or memory, without the express consent of the person concerned, personal data that, directly or indirectly, reveals the person's sexual orientation, shall be punished by imprisonment of one to seven years and a fine.
  • January 1
    Serving openly in military becomes legal.
    Article 13 of the Law on the Serbian Army from 2007 prohibits privileging or depriving members of the Army of their rights or duties, especially because of race, religion, gender, national affiliation, origin, or some other personal characteristic. In 2010, the Serbian Army officially announced that there is no discrimination in the Army on any basis, including sexual orientation. In 2014, trans woman Major Helena sued the military after she was forcefully retired due to coming out as trans. In 2015, the Minister of Defense denied that there was discrimination in the Serbian Army and at the same time apologized to transgender Major Helena for, as he said, an administrative error in the decision on her retirement ("an established diagnosis that can cause harmful consequences for the reputation of the Serbian Army").
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires surgery.
    To change their gender marker, trans people in North Dakota have to have their sex changed with "anatomically correct genitalia for the identified sex as certified by a medical provider".
  • (date unknown)
    LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    According to Article 45(2) and Article 406(3) of the Novo Código Laboral Cabo-Verdiano, discrimination in employment on the basis of sexual orientation is prohibited. The law is generally enforced but gender identity remains unprotected.
  • December 31
    Same-sex adoption becomes single only.
    Adoption Law 77/2007 Article 13.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes no protections.
    Until 2018, there were no protections from discrimination provided to LGBTIQ+ people in Namibia since the removal of protections in employment in 2007.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes no protections.
    There are no legal protections in employment. In 2021, a Namibian court has found that the constitution bans discrimination based on sexual orientation. In March 2023, the Supreme Court overturned the 2021 decision. Section 139 of the Labour Act of 2004 repealed the Labour Act of 1992 which in Section 107 prohibited sexual orientation discrimination. However, that law never came into effect. The Labour Act 2007, however, does not include sexual orientation.
  • December 28
    Same-sex marriage becomes civil unions (marriage rights).
    In 2007, Uruguay became the first country in South America to provide recognition to same-sex couples on a national level by providing them recognition as civil unions with the same rights as married couples.
  • December 21
    Right to change legal gender becomes ambiguous.
    In 2007, a landmark ruling in Nepal provided nonbinary people with legal recognition on the basis of self-determination. Section 12 of the Constitution of Nepal (2015) was written in such a way that requires the Nepalese Citizenship Certificates to include gender identity (as opposed to just gender). This provision only applies to the first Nepalese Citizenship Certificate issued, not to an already-issued certificate. However, the decision of Sunil Babu Pant, Anik Ranamagar and others v. Government of Nepal (2017), ruled that existing citizenship certificates should also be amended. Nepal began issuing passports with “third gender”/“O” markers, after the Supreme Court decision Dilu Dibuja v. the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (2017) ordered that a transgender person should be given a passport that matched their Nepalese Citizenship Certificate. In 2019, Nepal’s House of Representatives proposed a bill to amend the Citizenship Act that would impact the rights of trans persons. The bill proposed an onerous proof of "sex change" as a requirement for a person to obtain a change of gender marker on their Nepalese Citizenship Certificate. This goes in contradiction with the above Supreme Court cases. In addition, many transgender people who have applied for a gender change have been able to see their gender marker changed on behalf of the civil status. Despite this, the process of a legal gender change was only permissible for nonbinary people and trans women couldn't change their markers to female or trans men to male until 2024.
  • Homosexual activity becomes legal.
    In 2007, Nepal became one of the leading LGBTQ countries with holding Supreme court ruling in 2007, that would allow same-sex marriages and grant transgender people the right to gender affirming care.
  • December 16
    Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    The age of consent in South Africa is equal for homosexual sex and heterosexual sex.
  • December 3
    Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires medical diagnosis.
    In Guernsey, you can legally change your gender but you need to acquire a UK GRC which requires a medical diagnosis
  • November 29
    LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
    In 2007, Rio Grande do Norte passed Law No. 9036 which prohibited discrimination in housing on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    In 2007, Rio Grande do Norte passed Law 9036 which provided protections from discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity in employment, housing and goods and services. However, there were no protections from discrimination in healthcare and education.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
    In 2007, Rio Grande do Norte passed Law No. 9036 which prohibited discrimination in employment on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity.
  • November 19
    Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    Until 2019, Aguascalientes defined a marriage as being between a man and a woman, effectively banning same-sex marriage. Since 2017, federal amparos have provided marriage to couples.
  • November 17
    Homosexual activity becomes legal.
    Homosexuality within Chinandega is legal
  • November 16
    Homosexual activity becomes legal.
    According to Nicaraguan laws.
  • November 4
    Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    Article 4 of the Family Law of the Brčko District states: "Marriage is a legally regulated union of life between a woman and a man." The BD Statute does not mention marriage.
  • Same-sex adoption becomes illegal.
    Family Law of Brčko District adopted on Jun 14, 2007 recognizes two categories of adoption: "incomplete adoption" and "full adoption". Both fully and partially can be adopted only by married partners without restrictions. With the existence of particularly justified reasons, both types of adoption can be provided to extramarital partners who have lived in the community for at least 5 years, while single people can only be granted incomplete adoption under the same justified reasons (Articles 86 and 87).
  • October 22
    LGBT housing discrimination becomes no protections.
    The Constitution of Montenegro prohibits discrimination on any ground. However, it does not explicitly mention sexual orientation or gender identity.
  • Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    There is constitutional ban on same-sex marriages in Montenegro. Article 71: "Marriage can only be concluded with the free consent of the woman and the man".
  • October 16
    LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Only banned in employment and housing
  • October 3
    Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    Until 2021, Zacatecas defined a marriage as between a man and a woman, effectively banning same-sex marriage. However, since 2019, some municipalities have legalised it.
  • October 2
    LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    Under the Employment Relations Promulgation 2007, Section 6(2) prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation for recruitment, training, promotion, terms and conditions of employment, termination of employment or other matters arising out of the employment relationship.
  • September 14
    LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    In 2007, San Juan passed Law 7819 which prohibited discrimination in any context on the basis of sexual orientation. However, gender identity is only protected in employment under a federal law in 2021.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2007, San Juan began providing protections from discrimination in employment on the basis of sexual orientation under Law 7819. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2021.
  • LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    The San Juan Province Code of Offenses (Law 941-R) prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation, including in housing. However, gender identity remains unprotected.
  • September 12
    Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    In 2007, the Matrimonial Causes Act took effect in Zambia, explicitly declaring same-sex marriages void. In 2010, Zambia passed another clause in its constitution that explicitly forbids marriage between people of the same sex. The Anti-Gender-Based Violence Act (2011) states that “domestic relationship ” means "a relationship, between a victim and a respondent in any of the following ways: (b) the victim cohabits with the respondent in a relationship in the nature of a marriage notwithstanding that they are not married, were not married to each other or could not or cannot be married to each other." This definition includes people in a same-sex relationship.
  • September 1
    Same-sex adoption becomes illegal.
    According to article 132 of the 2006 Family Law in Montenegro, adoptive parents can be: - spouses or common-law partners together - the spouse or common-law partner of the child's parent - exceptionally, with the permission of the cabinet minister responsible for social welfare, a person who lives alone if particulary justified reasons exist for doing so. This practically means that single people (regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity) are not allowed to adopt.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires surgery.
    Transgender people in Belgium are required to undergo gender reassignment surgery in order to change their gender on state documents.
  • August 31
    Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    The following day, Judge Robert Hanson stayed his ruling, effectively reinstating the ban on same-sex marriage. He stayed his ruling after the county prosecutor requested it so that the Iowa Supreme Court could rule on his appeal.
  • August 30
    Same-sex marriage becomes legal.
    On August 30th, 2007, Judge Robert Hanson ruled that denying marriage to same-sex couples is unconstitutional. One couple was able to marry before the ruling was stayed.
  • August 14
    Serving openly in military becomes legal.
    In Slovenia there is no regulation that would prohibit LGBT persons from participating in the Armed Forces. Article 15 of the 2007 Act on Service in the Slovenian Army: Equality during military service is guaranteed, regardless of any personal circumstances.
  • August 1
    Blood donations by MSMs becomes legal.
    After many years of activism, Costa Rica lifted the ban on gay and bisexual men donating blood. The ban had originally been put in place due to fear of HIV-AIDS.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    The Penal Code (2019) provide some protections for LGBT people: -Article 160 (Aggravated Homicide) protects the victim's sexual orientation or gender identity. -Article 191 prohibits incitement to discrimination, hatred, or violence against a person or group of people based on their gender identity. It also prohibits defamation, insults, and threats against transgender people. Sexual orientation is not mentioned in the article. The Advertising Code (2016) prohibits advertising if it contains any discrimination or humiliation based on sexual orientation. Resolution No. 31/2024, which approves the Urbanization Policy, protects sexual orientation in its definition of social inclusion. The 2007 labor law protected against discrimination on employment on grounds of sexual orientation. (Repealed in 2024)
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    Until February 2024, there was legal protection for sexual orientation under Articles 4, 5 and 108 of the Labour Law 23/2007.
  • July 26
    Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires medical diagnosis.
    While there's no actual law support this, Minnesota's Department of Safety had quietly added X gender marker to their licenses. This is still in effect as of 2018, as they roll out REAL ID. Permits are also able to get X gender marker, as of 2018 as well. Although surgery is not required, a letter confirming “appropriate medical treatment” is.
  • July 23
    Same-sex marriage becomes other type of partnership.
    In 2007, Washington began provided for the status of domestic partnership to same-sex couples. The rights were limited compared to married couples but would expand in 2008.
  • July 10
    LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    In 2007, Buenos Aires passed Law 10,688 which prohibited discrimination in education on the basis of sexual orientation. However, gender identity remains unprotected. Since 2009, LGBTIQ+ people are protected in the military code of Argentina. In 2009, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in healthcare in Buenos Aires under federal Argentine law. However, gender identity remains unprotected. Conversely, in 2021, gender identity became a protected characteristic from discrimination in employment in Buenos Aires, also under federal Argentine law, but sexual orientation remains unprotected. Outside of those contexts, there are no discrimination protections provided to LGBTIQ+ people in Buenos Aires.
  • June 28
    Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    Article 2 of Law No. 2007-022 on Marriage and Matrimonial Regimes states that: "Marriage between two persons of the same sex is prohibited, whether celebrated before the Civil Registrar or performed according to traditional ceremonies." Article 39 mentions "gender identity" as a cause for the absolute nullity of marriage.
  • June 13
    LGBT discrimination becomes illegal.
  • June 1
    Same-sex marriage becomes civil unions (limited rights).
    South Australia's Statutes Amendment (Domestic Partners) Act Proclamation of 2007 permitted civil unions between same-sex people with limited rights.
  • May 25
    LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
    In 2007, the Iowa legislature amended the state’s discrimination law on housing to include protections for sexual orientation and gender identity.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
    In 2007, the Iowa legislature amended the state’s employment discrimination law to include protections for sexual orientation and gender identity. In 2025, Iowa’s governor signed a bill that removed gender identity from the list of protected classes in employment discrimination. However, once this legislation goes into effect, it will not affect employment discrimination because gender identity and sexual orientation have been protected federally since 2020 under Bostock v Clayton County.
  • April 17
    Same-sex marriage becomes foreign same-sex marriages recognized only.
    Marriages performed in the Kingdom of the Netherlands are recognised since 2007. They are not however performed in Curaçao. However, this doesn't mean equal treatment is given to same sex married couples (as opposed to different sex married couples)
  • Same-sex marriage becomes foreign same-sex marriages recognized only.
    Marriages performed in the Kingdom of the Netherlands are recognised since 2007. They are not however performed in Sint Maarten. Additionally, the official government website specifies a "bride" and "groom".
  • April 13
    LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    The Sint Maarten penal code (Article 2:61) makes discrimination illegal if against a hetero- or homosexual orientation.
  • Same-sex marriage becomes foreign same-sex marriages recognized only.
    Marriages performed in the Kingdom of the Netherlands are recognised since 2007. They are not however performed in Aruba.
  • April 9
    Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    The 2007 Family Code of Sonora defines a marriage as between a man and a woman, effectively banning same-sex marriage.
  • March 17
    Same-sex marriage becomes civil unions (limited rights).
    In 2006, Mexico City approved a law recognising same-sex civil unions which took effect in March 2007. While inheritance rights were granted, adoption remained banned.
  • March 16
    Same-sex marriage becomes civil unions (limited rights).
    In 2007, Coahuila passed a law granting same-sex couples recognition as civil unions with the same inheritance rights as heterosexual couples. However, there was no right to adopt granted.
  • March 14
    Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires surgery.
    The Northern Mariana Islands provide for legal gender recognition but require proof of surgery for it to be granted since 2007.
  • February 7
    Same-sex marriage becomes unregistered cohabitation.
    In 2007, the Constitutional Cort of Colombia provided several property and pension rights to same-sex couples, the first such recognition provided to same-sex couples.
  • January 19
    Same-sex adoption becomes single only.
    A law entered into force in 2007 in Coahuila which prohibited LGBTIQ+ people from adopting. The law would be ruled unconstitutional in November 2011 but wasn’t change until 2014.
  • January 1
    LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    Protections in housing discrimination were extended to LGB people with the "The Equality Act (Sexual Orientation) Regulations (NI) 2006", taking effect in 2007. Currently, they are not extended to protect people on the basis of gender identity.
  • (date unknown)
    Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires surgery.
    Since 2007, Lithuania has allowed trans people to change their legal gender but until 2022, this required surgery and a court order.
  • January 1
    Same-sex adoption becomes illegal.
    Under the registered partnership act same sex couples are not able to adopt their partner’s child.
  • (date unknown)
    Serving openly in military becomes illegal.
    The Military penal law No. 19 2007 prohibits its men from engaging Homosexual acts.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    In the Bahamas, there are no laws restricting the discussion or promotion of LGBTQ+ topics. However, there have been cases of censorship against NGOs and bans on LGBTIQ+ themed films in the past as late as 2006. There have been no cases since 2007 however.
  • Conversion therapy becomes sexual orientation only.
    According to the Mental Health Act (2007) a person is not to be considered mentally ill by reason that the person expresses or refuses or fails to express a particular sexual preference or sexual orientation.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Explicit legal protections under: -Mental Health Act (2007): sexual preference or sexual orientation. -Labour and Employment Relations Act (2013): sex, gender, sexual orientation. -Sentencing Act (2016): gender identity and sexual orientation (Aggravating factor).
  • Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    The family code of 2007 explicitly and repeatedly refers to marriage as between a man and a woman.
  • Same-sex adoption becomes legal.
    State statute allows married and unmarried persons to adopt per §9-301, and a lower court ruled in MA, 2007 ME 123 (2007) that the law is not exclusionary of same-sex partners. Similarly, second-parent adoption isn't expressly permitted in statute, but case law has been tolerant in lower court rulings.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal.
    In 2007, the Iowa legislature added sexual orientation and gender identity to the state’s discrimination law.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
    State law provides for protections against employment discrimination in regards to both sexual orientation and gender identification.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
    State law provides for protections against employment discrimination in regards to both sexual orientation and gender identification.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
    State law provides for protections against employment discrimination in regards to both sexual orientation and gender identification.
  • January 1
    Serving openly in military becomes legal.
    Section 1.5 of Ireland's Defence Forces's "Equality, Diversity, and Equal Status Policies" state that "the nine (9) grounds on which discrimination is prohibited are: Gender, marital status, family status, disability, sexual orientation, age, religion, race and membership of the Traveller community."
  • Blood donations by MSMs becomes banned (6-month deferral).
    Individuals who have engaged in anal sex (regardless of gender) have a 6 months deferral.
  • (date unknown)
    Equal age of consent becomes equal.
  • January 1
    Same-sex marriage becomes civil unions (marriage rights).
    A registered partnership in Switzerland grants equal rights to marriage but differs on three points: access to fertility treatment, joint adoption and facilitated Swiss naturalisation.
  • (date unknown)
    LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
    In 2007 and 2008, the Legislative Yuan passed amendments to two employment laws banning discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity at work. Employment discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity is prohibited under Article 5 of the Employment Service Act (2007) and Chapter II of the Gender Equality in Employment Act (2008).
  • Right to change legal gender becomes illegal.
    Filipinos who undergo gender re-assignment surgery are not permitted to change their legal gender per a supreme court ruling in 2007. Individuals with Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH), a very rare gender disorder, are permitted to change their gender. Changing gender pending.
  • December 27
    Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    In Chihuahua, there are no laws restricting the discussion or promotion of LGBTQ+ topics since the new Penal Code of 2006 which does not mention homosexuality as a corruption of minors.
  • December 23
    Same-sex marriage becomes civil unions (limited rights).
    Under French law, both same sex and different sex couples can get a PACS, a civil union with limited rights. PACS are still available today. This did not take effect in Mayotte until 2006.
  • December 15
    LGBT discrimination becomes illegal.
  • December 14
    LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    This act makes discrimination illegal in most contexts. However it failed to address hate crime law
  • November 30
    Same-sex marriage becomes legal.
    In 2006, South Africa passed a landmark bill, legalising same-sex marriage and becoming the first African country to do so. However, the law (Section 6 of the Civil Union Act) allows marriage officers to refuse to perform such marriages under personal morals exceptions. The marriage being same-sex is permitted as a sole reason for obejction.
  • November 28
    LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    Article 1 of the Law on Equality (2006) prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation. Article 2 states that the protection applies to the public and private sectors with regard to housing. It does not include gender identity among its protected grounds.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
    Employment discrimination is illegal
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal.
    Article 454 to 457 of the Luxembourgian Penal code prohibits discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender.
  • November 21
    Same-sex marriage becomes foreign same-sex marriages recognized only.
    Due to a Supreme Court Ruling, since 1962 Israel must recognize couples that married abroad as legally married even if the marriage didn't fit the legal definition of marriage stablished by Israeli law. In 2006 by a 6-1 decision the Supreme Court decided this applied to same sex couples too.
  • November 13
    LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    Article 131 of the Labour Code protects the category of sexual orientation from discrimination in employment since 2006.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Article 131 of the Labour Code protects sexual orientation discrimination in Employment Since 2006. In 2022, a Domestic Violence Act was passed protecting LGBT couples. It states that a public officer or other person providing a service to a victim shall not treat a victim in a discriminatory manner. “Discriminatory manner” includes discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity. The Data Protection Act (2022) protects "sexual orientation" as personal data and sensitive personal data.
  • November 9
    LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    only banned on sexual orientation
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    The labour law was amended to protect LGBTQ+ population in some aspects of the labour market.
  • November 8
    LGBT housing discrimination becomes ambiguous.
    The Constitution of Serbia prohibits discrimination on any ground. However, it does not explicitly mention sexual orientation or gender identity.
  • Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    There is a constitutional ban on same-sex marriages in Serbia. Article 62 of the Serbian Constitution reads: "Marriage is concluded on the basis of the freely given consent of man and woman..." Other forms of recognition, such as civil unions or domestic partnerships are not explicitly mentioned nor prohibited. The law on same-sex unions has been pending since 2021.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires medical diagnosis.
    Changing your legal gender does not require surgery, however, it does require proof of some form of medical treatment for a period of two years.
  • November 7
    Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    The state election in 2006 amended the constitution to include clauses that defined marriage as being between a man and a woman.
  • October 11
    Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    In Mendoza, there are no laws restricting the discussion or promotion of LGBTQ+ topics since the removal of Article 80 in 2006, which criminalised people from "dressing and passing themselves off as a person of the opposite sex" in daily life. However, Article 54 remained in force until 2018, stating that women or homosexuals who "exhibit, incite, offer or make provocative signs or gestures to third parties in a public place, open or exposed to the public, for the purpose of engaging in prostitution" would be arrested for 10 to 30 days and receive fines of up to 1,500,000 pesos. No such law was in place for heterosexual men.
  • October 1
    Blood donations by MSMs becomes banned (6-month deferral).
    Men cannot donate blood before May 2014, at the time it was a high risk for HIV and AIDS. They have since nulled the bill. A newer one has passed
  • September 28
    LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
    This state explicitly bans housing discrimination based upon sexual orientation and gender identification. Additionally, the Human Rights Campaign states, "The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) requires grantees and participants of HUD programs to comply with local and state non-discrimination laws that include sexual orientation and gender identity. HUD also prohibits inquiries regarding the sexual orientation or gender identity of a prospective tenant or applicant for assisted housing in every state (March 2012)."
  • September 12
    LGBT discrimination becomes illegal.
    In 2006, Amazonas passed Law No. 3079 which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity in all areas.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
    In 2006, Amazonas passed Law 3079 which prohibited discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity in employment.
  • LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
    In 2006, Amazonas passed Law No. 3079 which provided protections from discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity in housing.
  • September
    Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    Under the Chhattisgarh Compulsory Registration of Marriages Rules of 2006 marriage is defined as between "a male and a female".
  • September 1
    Same-sex marriage becomes civil unions (marriage rights).
    In Guernsey, same-sex couples could have a “union civile” (French for civil union). This gave same-sex couples rights for inheritance, taxation, benefits, and next-of-kin issues.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
    Employment discrimination was banned by the Employment Act 2006, and further enhanced by the Equality Act 2017.
  • August 27
    Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    In 2006, North Carolina amended its education law in 1995 that declared that health education should teach that a "mutually faithful monogamous heterosexual relationship" is the best means to avoid transmission of HIV/AIDS. NC passed House Bill 755 restricting mention of LGBT-related topics in public schools. Also teachers are required to tell students' parents if they are gay. However, the bill was stalled because of a potential veto from Gov. Roy Cooper.
  • August 18
    LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
    Section 1 of the General Act on Equal Treatment (Allgemeines Gleichbehandlungsgesetz, AGG) prohibits discrimination on housing.
  • August 14
    LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
    Due to Germany being a Federal Republic many states have had anti-discrimination laws as early as 1992. But by signing the Treaty of Amsterdam (EU) Germany amended its national anti-discrimination laws to include sexual orientation.
  • August 9
    Gender-affirming care becomes ambiguous.
    In 2007 a judge ruled that minors could consent to GAC but the scope and availability of the process was unclear.
  • July 31
    LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
    In 2006, Maranhao passed Law 8444 which prohibits discrimination in housing on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    In 2006, Maranhao passed Law 8444 which provided protections from discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity in employment, housing and goods and services. However, only sexual orientation was protected in education and there were no protections from discrimination in healthcare.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
    In 2006, Maranhao passed Law 8444 which prohibits discrimination in employment on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires surgery.
    Since 2006, transgender individuals have been able change their legal gender and name after undergoing gender affirming surgery and potentially humilitating doctor's inspection as reported by some trans activists, according to Article 121 of The Civil Registry Law (Law No. 31). In 2016, a transgender woman was able, through court permission, to change her legal name according to her gender identity, without the need to undergo surgery.
  • July 23
    Same-sex marriage becomes civil unions (limited rights).
    Same-Sex Partnership Registration Act was adopted on June 22, 2005. The law covered only property rights, the obligation to support a socially weaker partner and some inheritance rights. A bill to legalize same-sex marriage had been approved by Parliament on March 3, 2015. However, it was rejected in a referendum on December 20, 2015.
  • July 17
    LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    In 2006, Chaco would pass Law 5733 which prohibited discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation in goods and services. However, gender identity remains unprotected. Since 2009, LGBTIQ+ people are protected in the military code of Argentina. In 2009, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in healthcare in Chaco under federal Argentine law. However, gender identity remains unprotected. Conversely, in 2021, gender identity became a protected characteristic from discrimination in employment in Chaco, also under federal Argentine law, but sexual orientation remains unprotected. Later, in 2021, Chaco would prohibit discrimination in housing on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. Outside of those contexts, there are no discrimination protections provided to LGBTIQ+ people in Chaco.
  • July 11
    Homosexual activity becomes ambiguous.
    On July 11th, 2006, the Fijian High Commissioner confirmed that gay people having consensual sex would not be arrested. However, Article 175 (a) had not been repealed yet. This Article states that any person who has carnal knowledge (sexual intercourse) of any person against the order of nature is guilty of a felony, and is liable to imprisonment for fourteen years, with or without corporal punishment.
  • July 5
    Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    Deputies in Jerseys State Assembly voted to equalize the age of consent for homosexual sex to heterosexual sex
  • July 1
    Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires surgery.
    Georgia requires surgery for legal gender recognition. A court order is also required to change your birth certificate.
  • Same-sex marriage becomes civil unions (limited rights).
    The Czech Registered Partnerships have been condemned for not having equal rights to marriage like in some other countries with civil unions. Differences between marriage and registered partnership are: different procedural questions (the ceremony is not the same), no automatic name change, no community property of spouses is created, and no parental rights (no joint-adoption form institutions, no step-parent adoption) etc.
  • June 29
    LGBT discrimination becomes illegal.
    National law was amended in 2006 when the Treaty of Amsterdam was signed - giving all people the same rights under law. The Federal Constitutional Court of Germany clarified in 1 BvR 2019/16 that the general right of personality (Article 2 (1) in conjunction with Article 1 (1) of the Basic Law) protects gender identity. It also protects the gender identity of non-binary people. Article 3 (3) of the Basic Law includes non-binary people on the protection against discrimination on ground of their gender.
  • June 27
    Same-sex adoption becomes legal.
    Legal since 2006
  • June 22
    Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires surgery.
    There is and has been no law outlining requirements for changing legal gender. However the supreme court has allowed such procedure with en banc ruling from 2006. The requirements are governed by the guidelines set by the supreme court. These guidelines have included abusive or discriminatory requirements, such being at least 19 years old themselves, as well as being unmarried, diagnosed with “transsexualism” and having undergone hormone therapy and been sterilized.
  • June 15
    Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTQIA+ topics in North Ossetia-Alania.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTQIA+ topics in Kabardino-Balkar.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTQIA+ topics in Karachayevo.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTQIA+ topics in Adyegya.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until 2012, there was no known law censoring LGBTQIA+ topics in Krasnodarskiy.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTQIA+ topics in Stavropol.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTQIA+ topics in Dagestan.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTQIA+ topics in Kalmykiya.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTQIA+ topics in Rostov.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTQIA+ topics in Ingushetia.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTQIA+ topics in Ulyanovsk.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTQIA+ topics in Chuvash.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTQIA+ topics in Mariy El.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTQIA+ topics in Tatarstan.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until 2012, there was no known law censoring LGBTQIA+ topics in Samara.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTQIA+ topics in Mordovia.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTQIA+ topics in Penza.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTQIA+ topics in Saratov.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTQIA+ topics in Tambov.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTQIA+ topics in Pskov.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTQIA+ topics in Smolensk.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTQIA+ topics in Tver.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTQIA+ topics in Yaroslavskaya.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTQIA+ topics in Volodga.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Before March 2012's censorship, no laws preventing the free discussion of LGBT issues existed in St Peterburg.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Vladimir.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Tula.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Orlovskaya.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Moscow City.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Voronezh.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Volgograd.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Udmurt.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Nenets.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Komi.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until 2012, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Bashkortostan.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Perm.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Sverlodsk.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Yamalo Nenets.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Khanty Mansiyskiy.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Tyumenskaya.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Tomsk.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Altay Kray.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Altay.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Khakasiya.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Krasnoyarskiy.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Tyva.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Buratiya.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Zabaykalskij.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Sakha.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Sakhalin.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Yevrey.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Primorskiy.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Khabarovskiy.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Kamchatskaya.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until 2013, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Chukotskiy.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Kareliya.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's federal ban in 2013, there were no known laws censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in the Orenburg Oblast.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's federal ban in 2013, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in the Omsk Oblast.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until 2012, there were no known laws censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in the Novosibirsk Oblast.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's federal ban in 2013, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in the Novgorod Oblast.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's federal ban in 2013, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in the Nizhnegorod Oblast.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's federal ban in 2013, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in the Murmansk Oblast.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until 2012, there were no known laws censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in the Magadan Oblast.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's federal ban in 2013, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in the Lipetsk Oblast.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's federal ban in 2013, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in the Leningrad Oblast.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's federal ban in 2013, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in the Kursk Oblast.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's federal ban in 2013, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in the Kurgan Oblast.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until 2012, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in the Kostroma Oblast.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's federal ban in 2013, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in the Kirov Oblast.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's federal ban in 2013, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in the Kemerovo Oblast.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's federal ban in 2013, there were no known laws censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in the Kaluga Oblast.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until 2013, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in the Kaliningrad Oblast.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's federal ban in 2013, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in the Ivanovo Oblast.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until 2013, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in the Irkutsk Oblast.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes state-enforced.
    While Chechnya lacked a law formally censoring LGBTIQ+ topics until Russia's federal ban in 2013, the authorities showed little tolerance to LGBTIQ+ people, even compared to the rest of Russia, especially under the rule of Ramzan Kadyrov. It is unknown when the mass killings of gay men officially began but it wasn't widely known until 2017, likely as a result of censorship in Russia proper. Homosexuality was also recriminalised in 1996.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's federal ban in 2013, there were no known laws censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in the Chelyabinsk Oblast.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's federal ban in 2013, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in the Bryansk Oblast.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's federal ban in 2013, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in the Belgorod Oblast.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's federal ban in 2013, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in the Astrakhan Oblast.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until 2011, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in the Arkhangelsk Oblast.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in the Amur Oblast.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes fine as punishment.
    In 2006, the Ryazan Oblast passed a law prohibiting the promotion of "propaganda" of homosexuality to minors, the first known censorship law in Russia. A known case in 2010 of Irina Fedotova had her convicted and forced to pay a fine of 1500 rubles for displaying two posters that said "Homosexuality is normal" and "I am proud of my homosexuality" near a secondary school. While Russia's Constitutional Court found the conviction lawful, a UN Human Rights Committee found it to be discriminatory. Nine more regions would pass similar laws until it was made federal law in 2013.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes varies by region.
    Before the federal ban, ten regions of Russia enacted laws prohibiting the "propaganda" of homosexuality to minors since 2006, starting with Ryazan. Bans were also reported in Bashkortostan, Krasnodar, Arkhangelsk, Kostroma, Magadan, Novosibirsk, Samara, Kaliningrad and St. Petersurg. The bans are widely believed to have been a response to attempts to hold the country's first pride parade in Moscow on May 27th, 2006, which featured violence against pride paradors by both homophobic demonstrators and the police.
  • June 14
    Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Until Russia's federal ban in 2013, there were no known laws censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in the Moscow Oblast.
  • June 8
    LGBT discrimination becomes illegal.
    Covers sexual orientation and gender identity in regard to employment, housing, and public accomodations
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
    State law provides for protections against employment discrimination in regards to both sexual orientation and gender identification.
  • LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
    This state explicitly bans housing discrimination based upon sexual orientation and gender identification. Additionally, the Human Rights Campaign states, "The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) requires grantees and participants of HUD programs to comply with local and state non-discrimination laws that include sexual orientation and gender identity. HUD also prohibits inquiries regarding the sexual orientation or gender identity of a prospective tenant or applicant for assisted housing in every state (March 2012)."
  • April 21
    Same-sex adoption becomes legal.
    Same sex couples could adopt children in Belgium from 21 April 2006.
  • April 18
    Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    The 2006 "Karnataka Marriage (Registration and Miscellaneous Provisions) Rules" refer explicitly to a "bride" and "bridegroom".
  • April 13
    LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Seychelles provides protection against discrimination in employment based on sexual orientation since 2006. The National Anti-Bullying Policy and Strategy for Primary, Secondary Schools and Professional Centres (2018) includes specific sections referred to homophobic bullying (Section 2.1.2(iii), Section 2.2, paragraph 4, and Section 4.3). On 18 September 2024, the Seychelles National Assembly passed the Penal Code (Amendment) Act 2024. It bans hate-motivated offences by introducing the element of hate as an aggravating factor to any underlying offences. The hate crimes and hate speech provisions specifically include sexual orientation, gender identity, and sex characteristics.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2006, Articles 2, 46A (1) and 46B of the Employment Act 1995 were amended by Act 4 to include sexual orientation as a protected characteristic from discrimination in employment in Seychelles. However, gender identity remains unprotected.
  • March 31
    Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    The "GUJARAT REGISTRATION OF MARRIAGES ACT, 2006" refers to marriage as between a bride and a bridegroom.
  • March 23
    Same-sex adoption becomes legal.
    In 2006, the Parentage Act of 2004 came into effect, legalising same-sex adoption in the Australian Capital Territory.
  • February 18
    Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    The 2006 amendments to the Constitution of the Democratic Republic of the Congo explicitly prohibit same-sex marriage. Article 40 in the Dem. Rep. of Congo's constitution states "Every individual has the right to marry the person of their choice, of the opposite sex."
  • February 17
    Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    In Baja California, there are no laws restricting the discussion or promotion of LGBTQ+ topics since the removal of homosexuality as a "corrupt habit" in its corruption of minors law.
  • February 16
    Same-sex adoption becomes single only.
    Joint and stepchild adoption are not legal, but there are no restrictions against single LGBT individuals.
  • Same-sex marriage becomes unrecognized.
    Aricle 14 of the Kosovo Family Law adopted on January 20, 2006: "Marriage is a legally registered community of two persons of different sexes..." Constitution from 2008 does not have definition of marriage. Article 28: "Based on free will, everyone enjoys the right to marry and the right to have a family as provided by law. Marriage and divorce are regulated by law and are based on the equality of spouses". Bearing in mind the fact that the Constitution prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation, the President of the Constitutional Court said in 2014 that Kosovo de jure allows same-sex marriage but that due to political reasons the issue is unclear.
  • (date unknown)
    Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    Age of consent law in New Mexico does not discriminate against non-heterosexual sex.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes state-enforced.
    Even before the Taliban return to power in 2021, there was state-enforced censorship of LGBTIQ+ topics in Afghanistan. LGBTIQ+ organisations could not legally register, and the 2006 Law on Mass Media prohibited publication of matters "contrary to principles of Islam" which were interpreted to include anything pro-LGBTIQ+.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires surgery.
    In 2006, Maryland provided legal gender recognition but required proof of surgery.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires surgery.
    In 2006, Illinois provided for legal gender recognition but required surgery and full transition.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires surgery.
    In 2006, Delaware provided for legal gender recognition but required surgery.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires surgery.
    In 2006, Massachusetts required proof of surgery for legal gender recognition.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires surgery.
    In 2006, Arizona provided for legal gender recognition but required proof of surgery. This requirement was removed in 2024.
  • Gender-affirming care becomes banned.
    Gender affirming surgeries are illegal in Armenia, despite rulings requiring them for legal gender recognition. Trans Armenians often undergo such care abroad or in secret.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires surgery.
    There are no explicit laws on requiring medical diagnosis for changing gender or name. People will have to go through a medical professional to get a signed document for name change. Surgery was required for birth certificates but not driver’s licences.
  • January 1
    Serving openly in military becomes legal.
    Under federal law.
  • Serving openly in military becomes legal.
    Under federal law.
  • Serving openly in military becomes legal.
    Under federal law.
  • (date unknown)
    Legal recognition of non-binary gender becomes intersex only.
    Birth certificates allow for an "indeterminate" sex to be recorded. It is unknown when intersex recognition was first granted in Chile but estimates range back to 2006.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    Sexual Offences (Amendment) Act 2006 updated the 1992 Act to bring the age of consent for all into alignment.
  • January 1
    LGBT housing discrimination becomes no protections.
    No protections are afforded to LGBTQ people in housing.
  • (date unknown)
    Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires medical diagnosis.
    In Indiana, it is possible for trans people to change their legal gender on their drivers’ licence but they must provide a statement from a physician. Since March 2025, gender change on birth certificates is not provided.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires surgery.
    In 2006, West Virginia provided for legal gender recognition but required proof of surgery or a court order.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
    State law provides for protections against employment discrimination in regards to both sexual orientation and gender identification.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
    State law provides for protections against employment discrimination in regards to both sexual orientation and gender identification.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires surgery.
    Requires notarized statement from attending physician or person in charge of an institution that sex has been changed via surgery, along with a name change order. No options for non-surgical and non-binary trans people. No intersex gender marker.
  • January
    Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    A 2006 constitutional amendment defined marriage as the union of man and woman and the only type of partnership the state recognizes.
  • January 1
    Serving openly in military becomes legal.
    In Bosnia and Herzegovina, there is no regulation that would prohibit LGBT persons from participating in the Armed Forces of BiH. Article 28 of the Law on Service in the Armed Forces of BiH prohibits discrimination in the army on any basis. However, sexual orientation and gender identity are not particularly emphasized grounds.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    With new Criminal Code from 2005 the edge of consent of 14 years became equal for everyone.
  • December 30
    (deleted region)
    Same-sex adoption becomes legal.
    Adoption discrimination is illegal in England, this extends to Manchester.
  • December 28
    Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    Article 6 of the FBH Family Law states: "Marriage is a union of life between a woman and a man regulated by law." The FBH constitution does not mention marriage.
  • Same-sex adoption becomes illegal.
    Family Law of FBH entity adopted on March 3, 2005 recognizes two categories of adoption: "incomplete adoption" and "full adoption". Only married partners and non-marital partners who have lived in the community for at least 5 years can fully adopt (Article 102). Incomplete adoption is allowed only to married partners without restrictions, and with the existence of particularly justified reasons, this type of adoption can also be enabled for non-marital partners who have lived in the community for at least 5 years and for single people (Article 104).
  • December 27
    LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
    In 2005, Mato Grosso do Sul passed Law 3157 which prohibits discrimination in housing on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
    In 2005, Mato Grosso do Sul passed Law 3157 which prohibits discrimination in employment on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal.
    In 2005, Mato Grosso do Sul passed State Law 3157 which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity in all areas.
  • December 20
    Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    In Catamarca, there are no laws restricting the discussion or promotion of LGBTQ+ topics since the replacement of the Code of Misdemeanours in 2005 which removed mentions of "dressing or impersonating a person of the opposing sex".
  • December 15
    LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    There is no broad legal protection against discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity. There are limited protections against discrimination based on sexual orientation and sexual life. -Act No. 2005-040 on the Fight against HIV/AIDS and the Protection of the Rights of people living with HIV/AIDS (Articles 17 and 26). -Article 18 of Law No. 2014-038 on the Protection of Personal Data. -Law No. 2017-027 Relating to international cooperation in criminal matters (Articles 45 and 67).
  • Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    Section 110 of the Constitution of Latvia was amended in 2006, explicitly defining marriage as a union exclusively between a man and woman.
  • December 13
    Serving openly in military becomes lesbians, gays, bisexuals permitted, transgender people banned.
    In 2005 any discriminatory potential references to LGB people were removed from the list of disqualifying conditions. However, transgender people are still barred from military service however because "gender identity disorders" are listed as disqualifying.
  • December 5
    Same-sex marriage becomes civil unions (marriage rights).
    In 2005, the Deddf Partneriaeth Sifil 2004 (Civil Partnership Act 2004) legalised civil partnerships. These are still legal today, but marriage has now become more popular as civil partnerships do not provide all of the rights and responsibilities of marriage.
  • Same-sex marriage becomes civil unions (marriage rights).
    Civil partnership
  • Same-sex marriage becomes civil unions (marriage rights).
    The Civil Partnership Act 2004 received royal assent from Queen Elizabeth II on 18 November 2004. The act came into effect on 5 December 2005 and allowed for civil unions to be performed at registry offices, but not at religious institutions. Under the Act, same-sex couples can register a civil partnership, which has almost the same legal effects, rights and obligations as marriage does for mixed-sex couples. For that reason, civil partnership was sometimes called ‘gay marriage’. However, legally, it is not marriage, but is a separate, segregated system. The Equality Act 2010 amended the Civil Partnerships Act 2004 to allow civil unions to be performed at religious institutions, though religious organisations maintained a right to refuse to perform civil unions. This amendment, along with the rest of the Equality Act, came into effect on 1 October 2010.
  • December 1
    (deleted region)
    Same-sex marriage becomes civil unions (marriage rights).
    The Civil Partnership Act 2004 (CPA 2004), which extends across the United Kingdom, created a union, at that time for same sex couples only, which is very similar, but not fully identical, to marriage. At the time the CPA 2004 was enacted, it was not possible for same sex couples to marry in any part of the UK.
  • October 7
    Equal age of consent becomes n/a.
    16 for heterosexual males/females. No established age of consent for homosexual males/females, but they can be charged with engaging in consensual activity starting at age 12.
  • Homosexual activity becomes illegal (up to life in prison as punishment).
    In 2005, Zambia amended its Penal Code to criminalize lesbianism. Article 155 (a) punishes carnal intercourse against the order of nature with no less than 15 years in prison and the possibility of being liable to imprisonment for life.
  • October 1
    Same-sex marriage becomes civil unions (limited rights).
    In 2005, Connecticut provided for civil unions for same-sex couples but while doing so, it also passed a statute restricting marriage to different-sex couples.
  • August 5
    LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    Aricle 6 of the 2005 Labour Law prohibits employment discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation. The 2010 Law on Prevention and Protection against Discrimination prohibited discrimination in Employment but sexual orientation and gender identity were not explicitly mentioned grounds.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Aricle 6 of the 2005 Labour Law prohibits employment discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation. The 2010 Law on Prevention and Protection against Discrimination prohibited discrimination in general but sexual orientation and gender identity were not explicitly mentioned grounds.
  • August 1
    Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires surgery.
    In 2005, Connecticut required surgery as requisite for legal gender recognition.
  • July 30
    Same-sex marriage becomes civil unions (limited rights).
    A bill which legalized domestic partnerships for same-sex couples took effect on July 30th, 2005. The domestic partnerships offered gave only certain limited rights of what marriage would.
  • July 21
    Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    Homosexuality is not legal in Gambia.
  • July 20
    Same-sex marriage becomes legal.
    Under Canadian law there is a bill named Civil Marriage Act that was passed in 2005. This is from the Canadian government.
  • Same-sex marriage becomes legal.
    The Civil Marriage Act was passed at a federal level, overriding provincial marriage law.
  • Same-sex marriage becomes legal.
    Same-sex marriage in Canada became legally recognised nationwide with the Civil Marriage Act, making Canada the fourth country in the world to legalise gay marriage.
  • July 14
    LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    The Community/Union legislation (directive 2000/78) prohibited discrimination based on sexual orientation in the workspace. Later on it was transferred to the Greek legal order, with law 3304/2005, almost verbatim. The greek translation of the directive and the greek law referred to sexual orientation as “genetic orientation”.
  • July 12
    Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    Marriage in Uganda is defined as a union between a man and a woman constitutionally.
  • July 3
    Same-sex adoption becomes legal.
    Included in equal marriage legislation
  • Same-sex marriage becomes legal.
    In July of 2005, Spain became the third country in the world to legalize gay marriage, following the Netherlands and Belgium. The law, which was passed by the Spanish parliament and signed into law by Prime Minister José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero, also allows same-sex couples to adopt children.
  • July 1
    Gender-affirming care becomes legal, but restricted for minors.
    According to the Family Law from 2005, persons who have reached the age of 15 are given the right to give consent to undergo a medical procedure (Article 62). However, gender reassignment surgeries are only available to adults.
  • Same-sex adoption becomes illegal.
    According to article 101 of the current Family law in Serbia, adoptive parents can be: (1) spouses or common-law partners together (2) the spouse or common-law partner of the child's parent (3) exceptionally, with the permission of the cabinet minister responsible for families, a person who lives alone if particulary justified reasons exist for doing so This practically means that single persons (regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity) cannot adopt a child.
  • June 10
    Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    Age of Consent for sex is equal in the Falkland Islands.
  • June 3
    Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    Article 13 of the Family Code (2005) defines marriage as a legal union contract between a man and a woman. Article 77 establishes that a woman may request a divorce if her husband is homosexual.
  • May 10
    Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    In 2005, the Portuguese Constitutional Tribunal ruled that the inequal age of consent used in Portugal was unconstitutional and therefore could not be enforced as it violated the constitution's right to equality as provided by Articles 13 and 26.
  • May 9
    Censorship of LGBT issues becomes state-enforced.
    Article 640 of the Penal Code (2004) criminalises the possession or dissemination of “grossly indecent material”, including providing information on how to procure them. The Code came into force in 2005. A wide range of websites is reported to be blocked in Ethiopia, including the websites of LGBTI groups and organisations.
  • April 13
    Same-sex marriage becomes civil unions (marriage rights).
    The Civil Union Act 2004 received Royal assent on 13 December 2004, allowing for same-sex couples to enter civil unions when it commenced on 13 April 2005.
  • April 8
    Same-sex adoption becomes legal.
    Unmarried "stable" couples could adopt and removed gendered language.
  • Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    Kansas voters adopted a constitutional amendment in April 2005 that said "Marriage shall be constituted by one man and one woman only" and banned granting the "rights or incidents" of marriage to other relationships.
  • April 4
    (deleted region)
    Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires medical diagnosis.
    The Gender Recognition Act (GRA) of 2004 is a UK law allowing transgender people to change their legal gender. It established a process for obtaining a Gender Recognition Certificate (GRC), granting legal recognition in their identified gender.
  • (deleted region)
    Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires medical diagnosis.
    Requires diagnosis of gender dysphoria
  • (deleted region)
    Right to change legal gender becomes legal, no restrictions.
    Changing gender is legal.
  • (deleted region)
    Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires medical diagnosis.
    Changing gender is legal.
  • (deleted region)
    Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires medical diagnosis.
    Changing your gender is legal within Manchester.
  • (deleted region)
    Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires medical diagnosis.
    As in the United Kingdom, the law is the same Surgery is not required
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires medical diagnosis.
    Per the UK Gender Recognition Act 2004 (in effect 2005) one may go before a gender recognition panel. The requirements are as follows: 1. Must be 18 years of age 2. Must have a gender-dysphoria diagnosis 3. Must intend "to continue to live in the acquired gender until death" 4. Has lived in the acquired gender for at least 2 years. 5. If married: must acquire the consent of the spouse. If approved then one is granted a gender recognition certificate and may change the gender marker on legal documents.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires medical diagnosis.
    Per the Gender Recognition Act 2004 (in effect 2005) in all four constituent countries of the UK. The requirements are as follows: 1. Must be 18 years of age 2. Must have a gender-dysphoria diagnosis 3. Must intend "to continue to live in the acquired gender until death" 4. Has lived in the acquired gender for at least 2 years. 5. If married: must acquire the consent of the spouse. Eligibility is determined by a Gender Recognition Panel and if approved then one is granted a gender recognition certificate and may change the gender marker on legal documents. However, on April 16th 2025, the UK Supreme Court ruled that a woman is defined on the basis of “biological sex”. While this still provides some legal gender recognition, it effectively downgrades trans people to not achieve full recognition in law even with a Gender Recognition Certificate.
  • March 23
    LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    Aricle 18 of the 2005 Labour Law prohibits employment discrimination. Sexual orientation is one of explicitly mentioned grounds.
  • Same-sex marriage becomes civil unions (limited rights).
    In 2005, civil unions with near equal rights were passed into law by the General Council of Andorra.
  • March 20
    Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    In Baja California Sur, there are no laws restricting the discussion or promotion of LGBTQ+ topics since the removal of homosexuality as a "corrupt habit" in its corruption of minors law.
  • March 18
    Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    The Constitution of Burundi explicitly prohibits same-sex marriage. Article 29 of the constitution follows; "Marriage between two people of the same sex is forbidden".
  • March 14
    Same-sex marriage becomes unrecognized.
    In 2005, a state judge ruled the ban on same-sex marriage in California unconstitutional. Attempts to recognise same-sex marriage were passed but vetoed by the Governor until 2008.
  • February 21
    LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Andorra's 2005 penal code prohibits discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation in employment.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    Andorra's 2005 penal code prohibits discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation.
  • January 31
    Blood donations by MSMs becomes banned (1-year deferral).
    In 2005, Argentina’s blood donation criteria banned men who have sex with men from donating blood within a 12-month deferral. This law applied to Salta.
  • Blood donations by MSMs becomes banned (1-year deferral).
    In 2005, Argentina’s blood donation criteria banned men who have sex with men from donating blood within a 12-month deferral. This law applied to Corrientes.
  • Blood donations by MSMs becomes banned (1-year deferral).
    In 2005, Argentina’s blood donation criteria banned men who have sex with men from donating blood within a 12-month deferral. This law applied to Jujuy.
  • Blood donations by MSMs becomes banned (1-year deferral).
    In 2005, Argentina’s blood donation criteria banned men who have sex with men from donating blood within a 12-month deferral. This law applied to Misiones.
  • Blood donations by MSMs becomes banned (1-year deferral).
    In 2005, Argentina’s blood donation criteria banned men who have sex with men from donating blood within a 12-month deferral. This law applied to Tucuman.
  • Blood donations by MSMs becomes banned (1-year deferral).
    In 2005, Argentina’s blood donation criteria banned men who have sex with men from donating blood within a 12-month deferral. This law applied to Catamarca.
  • Blood donations by MSMs becomes banned (1-year deferral).
    In 2005, Argentina’s blood donation criteria banned men who have sex with men from donating blood within a 12-month deferral. This law applied to La Pampa.
  • Blood donations by MSMs becomes banned (1-year deferral).
    In 2005, Argentina’s blood donation criteria banned men who have sex with men from donating blood within a 12-month deferral. This law applied to Entre Rios.
  • Blood donations by MSMs becomes banned (1-year deferral).
    In 2005, Argentina’s blood donation criteria banned men who have sex with men from donating blood within a 12-month deferral. This law applied to Santa Fe.
  • Blood donations by MSMs becomes banned (1-year deferral).
    In 2005, Argentina’s blood donation criteria banned men who have sex with men from donating blood within a 12-month deferral. This law applied to San Luis.
  • Blood donations by MSMs becomes banned (1-year deferral).
    In 2005, Argentina’s blood donation criteria banned men who have sex with men from donating blood within a 12-month deferral. This law applied to Cordoba.
  • Blood donations by MSMs becomes banned (1-year deferral).
    In 2005, Argentina’s blood donation criteria banned men who have sex with men from donating blood within a 12-month deferral. This law applied to Formosa.
  • Blood donations by MSMs becomes banned (1-year deferral).
    In 2005, Argentina’s blood donation criteria banned men who have sex with men from donating blood within a 12-month deferral. This law applied to Tierra del Fuego.
  • Blood donations by MSMs becomes banned (1-year deferral).
    In 2005, Argentina’s blood donation criteria banned men who have sex with men from donating blood within a 12-month deferral. This law applied to Neuquen.
  • Blood donations by MSMs becomes banned (1-year deferral).
    In 2005, Argentina’s blood donation criteria banned men who have sex with men from donating blood within a 12-month deferral. This law applied to Buenos Aires.
  • Blood donations by MSMs becomes banned (1-year deferral).
    In 2005, Argentina’s blood donation criteria banned men who have sex with men from donating blood within a 12-month deferral. This law applied to La Rioja.
  • Blood donations by MSMs becomes banned (1-year deferral).
    In 2005, Argentina’s blood donation criteria banned men who have sex with men from donating blood within a 12-month deferral. This law applied to Santa Cruz.
  • Blood donations by MSMs becomes banned (1-year deferral).
    In 2005, Argentina’s blood donation criteria banned men who have sex with men from donating blood within a 12-month deferral. This law applied to Rio Negro.
  • Blood donations by MSMs becomes banned (1-year deferral).
    In 2005, Argentina’s blood donation criteria banned men who have sex with men from donating blood within a 12-month deferral. This law applied to Santiago del Estero.
  • Blood donations by MSMs becomes banned (1-year deferral).
    In 2005, Argentina’s blood donation criteria banned men who have sex with men from donating blood within a 12-month deferral. This law applied to Chaco.
  • Blood donations by MSMs becomes banned (1-year deferral).
    In 2005, Argentina’s blood donation criteria banned men who have sex with men from donating blood within a 12-month deferral. This law applied to San Juan.
  • Blood donations by MSMs becomes banned (1-year deferral).
    In 2005, Argentina’s blood donation criteria banned men who have sex with men from donating blood within a 12-month deferral. This law applied to Chubut.
  • Blood donations by MSMs becomes banned (1-year deferral).
    In 2005, Argentina’s blood donation criteria banned men who have sex with men from donating blood within a 12-month deferral. This law applied to Mendoza.
  • Blood donations by MSMs becomes banned (1-year deferral).
    In 2005, Argentina’s blood donation criteria banned men who have sex with men from donating blood within a 12-month deferral. This law applied to Buenos Aires City, although they would announce an unban in 2013.
  • Blood donations by MSMs becomes banned (1-year deferral).
    Federal regulations ban MSMs from donating blood, but it has been legal in the Autonomous City of Buenos Aires since July 2013. A bill that would strike down the federal ban in other regions was passed by the lower house of Congress, but it was never considered by the Senate.
  • January 20
    LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2005, Mayotte's Labour Code was amended to prohibit discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation in employment. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2012.
  • January 9
    Gender-affirming care becomes legal, but banned for minors.
    Article 38 of the Law “On Protecting the Health of the Kyrgyz Republic Citizens” states, “the gender identity may be changed or corrected in healthcare facilities through medical interventions at the request of a full-aged patient based on medical, biological, social and psychological indications in accordance with the procedure set forth by the responsible governmental body of the Kyrgyz Republic in the area of health care.”
  • (date unknown)
    Right to change legal gender becomes ambiguous.
    In 2005, Alaska provided legal gender recognition with the requirement of a court order. It is unknown if any surgery or medical diagnoses were required.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires surgery.
    In 2005, Pennsylvania provided for legal gender recognition but required proof of surgery.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires surgery.
    South Carolina has no specific statutes addressing legal gender change, it is done through the courts, which require proof of permanent medical treatment.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires medical diagnosis.
    Under Article 37 of the Law on the Register of Deaths, Births and Marriages (2005), "medical certification" is required to attain legal gender recognition. However, there are no apparent criteria for what this "certification" must include or what level of medical intervention (if any) is required. Thus, in practice, the discretion lies with each individual registrar to accept or reject applicants. Before the change of gender marker is registered, the applicant must request a new EMSO (identification number). According to ILGA-Europe, in January 2017, the Ministry of Internal Affairs published a circular establishing that applicants seeking legal gender recognition had to present a certified statement that they have undergone gender affirming surgery. However, after substantial advocacy efforts by local NGOs, including Legebitra, TransAkcija, and Amnesty Slovenia, the Ministry backtracked and published a new circular establishing that applicants had to submit a "certified statement" issued by a psychiatrist merely stating that they had "changed their gender" and indicating that the medical procedures leading to “gender change” are irrelevant for the legal gender recognition procedure, thus reinstating the interpretation that was in place before January 2017.
  • January 1
    Homosexual activity becomes illegal (imprisonment as punishment).
    In 2005, Saint Lucia's amendment to its Criminal Code took effect which included provisions criminalising sex between women as well as men with between 5 to 10 years in prison.
  • Equal age of consent becomes n/a.
    Homosexuality is illegal in Saint Lucia. Lesbianism was criminalised in 2005.
  • (date unknown)
    Serving openly in military becomes legal.
    LGBTQ+ individuals have been permitted to serve in the Thai military since 2005.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires surgery.
    In 2005, North Carolina provided for legal gender recognition but required proof of surgery.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires surgery.
    Maine provided legal gender recognition in 2005 but required surgery.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires surgery.
    In 2005, Montana provided for legal gender recognition but required proof of surgery.
  • January 1
    LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Anti-discrimination laws in hate speech and violence
  • (date unknown)
    LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
    State law provides for protections against employment discrimination in regards to both sexual orientation and gender identification.
  • January 1
    Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires surgery.
    An amendment to the Births, Deaths and Marriages Registration Act of 1996 took effect in 2005, providing for legal gender recognition. However, surgery was required.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    The age of consent for homosexuals was made equal along with the legalization of homosexuality in 2005.
  • Homosexual activity becomes legal.
    Homosexual activity has been legal in the Marshall Islands since 2005.
  • (date unknown)
    LGBT discrimination becomes illegal.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    In 2005, Hong Kong’s High Court ruled that the unequal age of consent between hetero and homosexual sexual activities was unconstitutional.
  • January 1
    Same-sex adoption becomes illegal.
    The couple applying for adoption must be a married, different sex couple. Custody has been granted to a same-sex parent on the basis of the "child's best interest," but this is very rare.
  • (date unknown)
    Blood donations by MSMs becomes banned (1-year deferral).
    Gay men in Japan are banned from donating blood following one (1) year after male-male sexual contact. Japanese Red Cross opposses this practice.
  • December 30
    LGBT discrimination becomes illegal.
    Discrimination aimed toward an individual's sexual orientation or gender identity is banned in France.
  • December 29
    LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2004, Piaui passed Law 5431 which prohibited discrimination in housing on the basis of sexual orientation. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2019.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2004, Piaui passed Law 5431 which prohibited discrimination in employment on the basis of sexual orientation. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2019.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Treats of administrative penalties to be applied to companies that practice discrimination based on sexual orientation under Law 5431 which passed in 2004 in Piaui. However, there were no protections in healthcare or education and gender identity remained unprotected.
  • December 21
    Same-sex marriage becomes legal.
    Same-sex marriage is legal.
  • December 17
    Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires surgery.
    In 2004, Malta provided for legal gender recognition but required proof of an irreversible sex change for such.
  • December 13
    Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    In 2004, Puebla removed "homosexual practices" as a "corrupt habit" in its "corruption of minors" law in the Penal Code. Since then, there are no laws restricting the discussion or promotion of LGBTQ+ topics.
  • December 8
    Right to change legal gender becomes ambiguous.
    Section 85(1) of the Código do Registo Civil 2004 gives the Civil Registrar general authority to make changes when there is a change of facts which alter the legal identity or status of the person registered. Transgender people can use this section to change the sex description on their identity document. Unclear requirements.
  • November 15
    LGBT housing discrimination becomes varies by region.
    There are no national protections against discrimination in housing for LGBT individuals; however, some Italian regions have introduced their own protections.
  • LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
    Since 2004, Toscana has banned discrimination in housing against LGBT people.
  • November 9
    Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    The Constitution of Armenia was amended in 2015 to define marriage in heterosexual terms only.
  • November 5
    Same-sex marriage becomes legal.
    Queen's Bench Justice Donna Wilson Ruled It unconstitutional.
  • November 2
    Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    Same-sex marriages and civil unions are prohibited in Georgia. Marriages between people of the same sex are not entitled the status of marriage. Foreign same-sex marriages also stand void here and are not covered by the jurisdiction, whatsoever be the circumstances.
  • October 19
    Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires medical diagnosis.
    In Florida you have the right to change your gender on your birth certificate and driver's license. In both cases, a physician is required to attest that you are receiving "appropriate treatment". What exactly is considered appropriate seems to be at the discretion of the physician. As such, surgery is not required. Additionally, before beginning hormone therapy, adults are required to have a psychological evaluation performed by a Florida-licensed psychologist or psychiatrist and then every two years thereafter. At the end of June, the Florida Board of Medicine adopted an emergency rule giving patients already on treatment six months to adapt to the new requirements.
  • September 25
    LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
    State law provides for protections against employment discrimination in regards to both sexual orientation and gender identification.
  • September 24
    Same-sex marriage becomes legal.
    Gay marriage became legal in Nova Scotia on September 24th, 2004.
  • September 19
    LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    The Law on Prohibition of Discrimination from 2004 prohibited discrimination in Housing on the basis of sexual orientation (Articles 2 and 4).
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    The Law on Prohibition of Discrimination from 2004 prohibited discrimination in Employment on the basis of sexual orientation (Articles 2 and 4).
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Law on Prohibition of Discrimination adopted on February 19, 2004, prohibited, among other categories, discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation in all areas. Also, Kosovo Constitution from 2008 prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation (Article 24 (2)).
  • September 18
    Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    The state passed a referendum question defining marriage to be a union between one man and one woman.
  • September 16
    Same-sex marriage becomes legal.
    Manitoba legalized gay marriage on September 16th, 2004.
  • September 14
    LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
    In 2004, Uruguay passed Law 17,817 which prohibited discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity in housing.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
    In 2004, Uruguay passed Law 17,817 which prohibited discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity in employment.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal.
    In 2004, an official anti-discrimination bill was passed that includes provisions for sexual orientations and gender identities in all areas. The law is actively enforced.
  • Same-sex adoption becomes legal.
    In 2009, Uruguay became the first Latin American country to allow same-sex couples to adopt children when they were explicitly granted equal rights to different-sex couples in adoption. However, adoption was in practice already allowed since 2004.
  • August 25
    Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    Article 2 of the Family Law of Mozambique defines marriage as a “free and notorious union between a man and a woman.”
  • August 17
    LGBT discrimination becomes illegal.
    Defines a hate crime as a criminal act committed because the victim's perceived: disability, gender, nationality, race or ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, or association with a person or group with one or more of these actual or perceived characteristics. Protections also include gender identification. Also, In 2014, California became the first state in the U.S. to officially ban the use of gay panic and transgender panic defenses in murder trials.
  • August 11
    Equal age of consent becomes n/a.
    Between 2004 and 2021, same-sex sexual activity was illegal.
  • Homosexual activity becomes illegal (imprisonment as punishment).
    Article 213 of Bhutan’s 2004 Penal Code criminalized “unnatural sex” which was defined as “sodomy or any other sexual conduct that is against the order of nature.” Article 214 stated that the offence of unnatural sex was a petty misdemeanor, which provided a maximum prison sentence of less than one year and a minimum term of one month.
  • August 5
    Censorship of LGBT issues becomes imprisonment as punishment.
    Article 4 of the Law on Associations (2004) forbids the registration of associations with objectives deemed "contrary to law and morality." In November 2021, authorities detained multiple women following a complaint from a mother alleging her daughter's involvement in an "online network" of lesbians. Researchers have found that searches for LGBT related subjects on the Malian internet are curated to provide anti-LGBT results. The country has an authoritarian government and appears to control the flow of information online.
  • August 4
    Same-sex adoption becomes legal.
    Any adults are permitted to petition jointly or individually before the court to request adoption, regardless of sexual orientation. §19-5-202. Second-parent adoption by same-sex couples is permitted per Colo. Rev. §19-5-203 et seq.
  • August 2
    Censorship of LGBT issues becomes imprisonment as punishment.
    Article 226 of the Penal Code (1913) which was amended in 2004, criminalizes any act that publicly draws attention to the opportunity to “commit debauchery” through any form of writing, audio, or visual recording.
  • August 1
    LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
    In 2004, the Equality for Men and Women Act (2003) was passed in the government. Allowing for no discrimination against women or men
  • Serving openly in military becomes lesbians, gays, bisexuals permitted, transgender people banned.
    Only 22 Countries allow transgender service Bulgaria is not one of them.
  • July 30
    Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    In 2004, same-sex marriage was banned in Norfolk Island under Australian federal law which defined a marriage as between a man and a woman.
  • Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    In 2004, same-sex marriage was banned in Western Australia under Australian federal law which defined a marriage as between a man and a woman. This also applied in Christmas Island.
  • Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    In 2004, same-sex marriage was banned in Western Australia under Australian federal law which defined a marriage as between a man and a woman. This also applied in the Cocos Islands.
  • Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    In 2004, same-sex marriage was banned in Tasmania under Australian federal law which defined a marriage as between a man and a woman.
  • Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    In 2004, same-sex marriage was banned in South Australia under Australian federal law which defined a marriage as between a man and a woman.
  • Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    In 2004, same-sex marriage was banned in Western Australia under Australian federal law which defined a marriage as between a man and a woman.
  • Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    In 2004, same-sex marriage was banned in New South Wales under Australian federal law which defined a marriage as between a man and a woman.
  • July 24
    LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Article 13 explicitly prohibits discriminations on the basis of sexual orientations
  • July 16
    Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires surgery.
    Act No.111 of 2003 requires for transgender people to change their legal gender, (1) be at least 20 years of age, (2) not currently married, (3) no child, (4) infertile (no gonads or persistent lack of gonadal function), (5) and has a body which appears to have genital parts of those of the opposite sex. And also requires medical certificate by two or more psychiatrist.
  • July 1
    Same-sex adoption becomes legal.
    The Human Rights Act of 2002 amended the 1998 Adoption Act to allow LGB couples to legally adopt. The sections of the act amending the Adoption Act did not take effect until July 2004.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    Article 17(1) of the Law on Equal Treatment (2004) prohibits sexual orientation discrimination in employment at the federal level. However, for gender identity there are no explicit protections.
  • May 17
    Same-sex marriage becomes legal.
    In 2004, Massachusetts became the first US state to legalize same-sex marriage.
  • May 10
    Censorship of LGBT issues becomes imprisonment as punishment.
    Qatar has very limited freedom of the press. There have been cases of publications being censored for referencing LGBTQ+ topics. The 2004 Penal Code also criminalises “leading, instigating or seducing a man to commit sodomy” with up to three years in prison.
  • May 7
    Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    In May 2004, Gov. Bob Taft signed legislation into law that banned the recognition of same-sex marriages, including those that were legally entered into “in any other jurisdiction”. In November 2004, Ohio voters approved Ohio Issue 1, which was a constitutional amendment that banned same-sex marriage and same-sex civil unions.
  • May 3
    Same-sex adoption becomes legal.
    In 2004, Aragon passed a bill stating: “stable unmarried couples may jointly adopt”
  • May 1
    Serving openly in military becomes legal.
    LGBT people are allowed to serve openly under new rules brought into place when Cyprus joined the European Union
  • Same-sex marriage becomes unrecognized.
    There was no definition of marriage in the 1991 Constitution. Article 53: Marriage and legal relationships within it... are regulated by law. Family Law from 2004, Article 3: "A marriage union is a life community of a husband and wife regulated by law."
  • April 14
    Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    Until 2015, Chihuahua’s Civil Code defined a marriage as being between a man and a woman, effectively banning same-sex marriage in a 2004 amendment. Since 2013, marriages have been recognised through federal amparos.
  • April 6
    Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    Kosovo has an equal age of consent (16 years) for both heterosexual and homosexual sexual activity.
  • March 19
    Same-sex marriage becomes legal.
    Quebec legalized gay marriage and was the third to do so. After gay couple Michael Hendricks and René Leboeuf went to court and invalidated parts of the law preventing them from getting married. This became effective on March 19th, 2004. Gay marriage became legal federally on July 20th, 2005.
  • March 17
    Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    In 2004, the Northern Territory lowered the age of consent for homosexual relations to 16, making it equal to heterosexual ones.
  • March 15
    Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires medical diagnosis.
    The Alteration of Sex Description and Sex Status Act allows people to apply to have their sex status altered in the population registry, and consequently to receive identity documents and passports indicating their gender identity. The law states that transgender persons must undergo gender reassignment. This includes medical interventions but is not limited to surgery alone. Hormone therapy is considered to be gender reassignment, therefore surgery per se is not required.
  • March 13
    Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires surgery.
    In 2004, Mexico City provided legal gender recognition but required surgery until 2015.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes varies by region.
    In 2004, Mexico City became the first region of Mexico to provide legal gender recognition. In 2009, the Supreme Court of Mexico established in its Judgment No. 6/2008 (2009) that the right to personal identity and free development of personality includes the right to gender identity and to "sexual reassignment", which obliges states to provide access to the "rectification of name and sex legal markers". In 2018, the Court issued Judgment No. 1317/2017 (2018) where it analysed the most appropriate procedure to guarantee "sex-gender rectification in the Civil Registry". In summary, this judgment concluded that the type of authority (judicial or administrative) before which the procedure is conducted is irrelevant as long as the nature of the procedure is materially administrative. Specifically, it must (a) be comprehensive; (b) be based on free and informed consent, with no medical, psychological and/or pathologising requirements; (c) be confidential; (d) be expeditious and free of charge; and (e) it must not require surgical or hormonal treatments. Despite this, various Mexican states have not unified their regulations and, in many cases, continue to require judicial processing and all sorts of evidence.
  • March 4
    Same-sex marriage becomes civil unions (marriage rights).
    In 2004, Rio Grande do Sul passed a law providing legal recognition to same-sex couples as civil unions.
  • Same-sex marriage becomes varies by region.
    On March 4th, 2004, a panel of judges in Rio Grande Do Sul gave the green light to gay and lesbian civil unions. The ruling gave same-sex couples broad rights in areas like inheritance, child custody, insurance benefits and pensions. They were the first Brazilian state to offer civil unions.
  • March 1
    LGBT discrimination becomes varies by region.
    In Tuscany, Piedmont, Liguria, Marche, Umbria, Sicily, Emilia-Romagna and Campania discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity is banned.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
  • Homosexual activity becomes legal.
    Homosexual activity has been legal in Cape Verde since 2004.
  • February 27
    LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    There is limited protection based on sexual orientation under the Mediation Act 2004, and as “sensitive personal information” under the Data Protection Act, 2011.
  • February 12
    Same-sex marriage becomes varies by region.
    In 2004, San Francisco’s newly elected mayor defied the state ban and began providing for recognition of marriage for same-sex couples in the city. These would get invalidated by the state months later.
  • February 10
    (deleted region)
    Legal recognition of non-binary gender becomes not legally recognized.
    No official ‘x’ marking option on official documents, applications etc. for non binary individuals.
  • February 1
    Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires surgery.
    Queensland’s Births, Deaths and Marriages Registration Act 2003 took effect in 2004. The act provided for legal gender recognition under the condition of proof of surgery being provided.
  • LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
    In 2004, Finland provided for protections from discrimination in housing on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal.
    LGBTQ+ people from Finland are protected from all types of discrimination.
  • January 22
    Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires surgery.
    Wyoming requires surgery as a requirement for legal gender recognition.
  • January 10
    (deleted region)
    Legal recognition of non-binary gender becomes not legally recognized.
    In 2021 the UK government said (in response to a petition) that legal recognition of non-binary gender identity would have "complex practical consequences for other areas of the law, service provision and public life", and said that they felt existing legislation allowing people to change their legal gender went far enough. Courts have, however, ruled that people with non-binary identities are protected from discrimination by the Equality Act.
  • January 9
    Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires surgery.
    NAC 440.130 provides allowance for persons to change gender on birth certificates and other vital records so long as a certifying physicians signs off on the persons gender identity.
  • (date unknown)
    Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires surgery.
    In 2004, Rhode Island provided for legal gender recognition but required proof of surgery.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires surgery.
    In 2004, New Hampshire provided for legal gender recognition but required proof of surgery.
  • January 1
    LGBT discrimination becomes illegal.
    illegal since 2004
  • (date unknown)
    Serving openly in military becomes don't ask, don't tell.
    According to the Helsinki Rights Committee in Armenia, in 2004, an internal defence ministry decree effectively bans gay men from serving in the armed forces. In practice, gays are marked as "mentally ill" and sent to a psychiatrist.
  • January 1
    Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    Equal at 16 years. Art 151 of the Lithuanian Criminal Code.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
    Discrimination in employment on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity has been illegal in Hungary since 2003 under the Equal Treatment and the Promotion of Equal Opportunities Act which came into effect in 2004.
  • (date unknown)
    Same-sex marriage becomes civil unions (marriage rights).
    A same-sex marriage bill was approved by the Chamber of Deputies on 18 June 2014, and went into effect in 2015.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Articles 12, 13 and 14 of the Gender Equity Education Act (2004) include gender identity and sexual orientation among the prohibited grounds of discrimination in education. Taiwan banned workplace discrimination against LGBT citizens in 2007.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal.
    Discrimintion is illegal in all context
  • December 21
    Same-sex adoption becomes single only.
    There are no adoption restrictions for single people. Also, no laws in place for same-sex couples.
  • December 18
    Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires surgery.
    Article 21 was amended in 2003 so that legal sex can be rectified to correct for "errors" without changing other details in the civil registry.
  • December 2
    LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, the Labour government began prohibiting discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation in employment, with some exceptions. This extended to the whole UK.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, the Labour government began prohibiting discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation in employment, with some exceptions. This extended to the whole UK.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, the Labour government began prohibiting discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation in employment, with some exceptions. This extended to the whole UK.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
    The 1999 Gender Reassignment Regulations amended sex discrimination protections to include gender identity, then in 2003, new legislation was passed protecting people from employment discrimination based on sexual orientation.
  • November 18
    Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    The infamous section 28 of the Local Government Act 1988 was repealed by section 122 of the Local Government Act 2003.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    The infamous section 28 of the Local Government Act 1988 was repealed by section 122 of the Local Government Act 2003.
  • (deleted region)
    Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    There are no laws censoring LGBTQ Topics in Liverpool
  • (deleted region)
    Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Previous law repealed by section 122 of the Local Government Act 2003.
  • (deleted region)
    Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    In England, there are no laws restricting the discussion or promotion of LGBTQ+ topics. This extends to Manchester
  • (deleted region)
    Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    The UK does not restrict the promotion of LGBTQ topics.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    The infamous section 28 of the Local Government Act 1988 was repealed by section 122 of the Local Government Act 2003. Since then, there have been no laws censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in the United Kingdom. However, in May 2024, draft guidance on sex education in British schools was released by the Department for Education, which seeks to ban schools from teaching children any information about gender identity if implemented. However, these were proposed by the conservative government, which was removed from power two months later.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    In England, there are no laws restricting the discussion or promotion of LGBTQ+ topics.
  • November 1
    Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires surgery.
    Until 2018, surgery was required to change your legal gender in Brazil.
  • October 8
    Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires surgery.
    Requires a notarized affidavit from a surgeon outlining the surgical procedure(s). A court order may also be used as evidence.
  • September 16
    LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    There are some local discrimination protections for LGBT people. Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity and Expression (SOGIE) Equality Bill pending nationwide.
  • September 5
    Gender-affirming care becomes banned.
    Starting in 2003, "sex-change medical interventions" were allowed only after a full chromosome map to ensure the person has a “biological need” to receive that treatment meaning they must be intersex or have a verifiable disorder of sex development (DSD) In addition to the approval of Al-Azhar. HRT is only allowed after a "sex-change surgery".
  • August 28
    LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Missouri's hate crime statutes explicitly address both sexual orientation, defined as "male or female heterosexuality, homosexuality or bisexuality by inclination, practice, identity or expression," and gender identity, defined as "having a self-image or identity not traditionally associated with one's gender."
  • August 13
    LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    Legislative Decree 9 July 2003, n. 216 prohibits discrimination in the workplace on the basis of religion, personal beliefs, handicap, age and sexual orientation.
  • July 30
    Same-sex marriage becomes unregistered cohabitation.
    The Law on Same-Sex Unions was adopted on July 14, 2003. The law allowed same-sex partners who have lived together for a minimum of 3 years similar rights to unmarried heterosexual partners in terms of inheritance and financial support, but not the right to adoption or any other right under family law. Such relationships could not be registered, nor did they have rights in terms of taxes, joint property, health insurance, pensions, etc.
  • Same-sex adoption becomes single only.
    There are no restrictions for single individuals based on sexual orientation, but there are restrictions to single people in general. A child may be adopted by a person who is not married if it is of particular benefit to the child (Article 133, paragraph 2).
  • July 29
    LGBT employment discrimination becomes no protections.
    Article 3 of the 2003 Labour Law prohibited discrimination in employment but did not mention sexual orientation or gender identity.
  • July 19
    LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    Amendments to the Labor Law (1995) dated July 14, 2003 introduced sexual orientation as a basis for prohibiting discrimination.
  • July 9
    LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    In 2003, Uruguay passed Law 17,677 which prohibited hate crimes and incitement to hate on the basis of both sexual orientation and gender identity.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Only discrimination in workplace banned.
  • July 8
    Same-sex marriage becomes legal.
    British Columbia became the second province in Canada behind Ontario to legalize gay marriage.
  • July 1
    Serving openly in military becomes lesbians, gays, bisexuals permitted, transgender people banned.
    Open homosexuals still serve in the military.
  • LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
    This state explicitly bans housing discrimination based upon sexual orientation and gender identification. Additionally, the Human Rights Campaign states, "The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) requires grantees and participants of HUD programs to comply with local and state non-discrimination laws that include sexual orientation and gender identity. HUD also prohibits inquiries regarding the sexual orientation or gender identity of a prospective tenant or applicant for assisted housing in every state (March 2012)."
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
    State law provides for protections against employment discrimination in regards to both sexual orientation and gender identification.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal.
    People are protected from discrimination based upon both sexual orientation and gender identification.
  • Serving openly in military becomes lesbians, gays, bisexuals permitted, transgender people banned.
    Open homosexuals still serve in the military.
  • June 26
    Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    Mississippi law states anyone under 16 to 17 years old is unable to consent, this goes for everyone, though not stated clearly.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    Though it does not explicitly say if LGBTQ parties are in the law, it remains equal for LGBTQ people.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    Age of consent generally in Michigan is 16 to 17 years old, Law does not specifically LGBTQ people in the law. However it is equal for everyone, in the state of Michigan
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    The age of consent in New Jersey law is for all sexual activity.
  • Homosexual activity becomes legal.
    In 2002, the Puerto Rican Supreme Court ruled that the ban on sodomy was constitutional. However, as a American territory Puerto Rico is subject to decisions of the U.S. Supreme Court. On June 26, 2003 with the landmark decision ruled through "Lawrence v Texas", homosexuality was decriminalized across the contiguous United States and it's subsequent territories, including Puerto Rico. In 2004, the Penal Code was ammended, codifying the legality of homosexuality.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    Age of consent laws are equitable regardless of sexual orientation or gender.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    Age of consent laws are equitable, regardless of gender or orientation.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    Age of consent laws are equitable regardless of gender or orientation.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    Age of consent is 17 regardless of gender or orientation. However, Texas has a "Romeo and Juliet law" allowing younger people of similar ages to consent, but the wording of this law excludes same-sex partners, but this still technically doesn’t make aoc ‘unequal’.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    Age of consent laws are equitable regardless of gender or sexual orientation.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    Age of consent is equitable regardless of gender or orientation.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    Age of consent laws are equitable regardless of gender or orientation.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    Age of consent in Wyoming is 17 for both same-sex couples and different-sex couples. State Statute is often confused to mean age 16, but in cases of Pierson v. State and Moore v. State, the courts ruled the law states 17. The statutes were later amended for clarity.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    State General Statute GS14-27.7 defines age of consent in North Carolina as 16 for vaginal intercourse but makes no mention of anal or oral intercourse, however it best categorized as equal as there is no law against it.
  • Homosexual activity becomes legal.
    US Supreme Court ruling issued in Lawrence v. Texas struck down all sodomy laws on the basis of privacy and liberty. The decision overturned any laws remaining in all US states which prohibited acts of sodomy.
  • Homosexual activity becomes legal.
    US Supreme Court ruling issued in Lawrence v. Texas struck down all sodomy laws on the basis of privacy and liberty. The decision overturned any laws remaining in all US states which prohibited acts of sodomy.
  • Homosexual activity becomes legal.
    US Supreme Court ruling issued in Lawrence v. Texas struck down all sodomy laws on the basis of privacy and liberty. The decision overturned any laws remaining in all US states which prohibited acts of sodomy.
  • Homosexual activity becomes legal.
    US Supreme Court ruling issued in Lawrence v. Texas struck down all sodomy laws on the basis of privacy and liberty. The decision overturned any laws remaining in all US states which prohibited acts of sodomy.
  • Homosexual activity becomes legal.
    US Supreme Court ruling issued in Lawrence v. Texas struck down all sodomy laws on the basis of privacy and liberty. The decision overturned any laws remaining in all US states which prohibited acts of sodomy.
  • Homosexual activity becomes legal.
    The US Supreme Court's ruling issued in Lawrence v. Texas (2003) struck down all sodomy laws on the basis of privacy and liberty. The decision overturned any laws remaining in all US states which prohibited acts of sodomy. However, New Hampshire repealed its individual sodomy ban in 1975; one of the first states in the country to do so.
  • Homosexual activity becomes legal.
    US Supreme Court ruling issued in Lawrence v. Texas struck down all sodomy laws on the basis of privacy and liberty. The decision overturned any laws remaining in all US states which prohibited acts of sodomy.
  • Homosexual activity becomes legal.
    The US Supreme Court's ruling issued in Lawrence v. Texas (2003) struck down all sodomy laws on the basis of privacy and liberty. The decision overturned any laws remaining in all US states which prohibited acts of sodomy. Missouri later repealed its sodomy ban in 2006; among the first Republican-majority states to do so.
  • Homosexual activity becomes legal.
    Consensual same-sex sexual activity has been legal in Michigan since the United States Supreme Court's ruling in Lawrence v. Texas, which overturned the remaining anti-sodomy laws nationwide in 2003. Michigan has not yet repealed its defunct laws against sodomy and gross indecency.
  • Homosexual activity becomes legal.
    The US Supreme Court's ruling issued in Lawrence v. Texas (2003) struck down all sodomy laws on the basis of privacy and liberty. The decision overturned any laws remaining in all US states which prohibited acts of sodomy.
  • Homosexual activity becomes legal.
    Consensual same-sex sexual activity has been legal in South Carolina since the United States Supreme Court's ruling in Lawrence v. Texas, which overturned the remaining anti-sodomy laws nationwide in 2003.
  • Homosexual activity becomes legal.
    Consensual same-sex sexual activity has been legal in North Carolina since the United States Supreme Court's ruling in Lawrence v. Texas, which overturned the remaining anti-sodomy laws nationwide in 2003.
  • Homosexual activity becomes legal.
    The US Supreme Court's ruling issued in Lawrence v. Texas (2003) struck down all sodomy laws on the basis of privacy and liberty. The decision overturned any laws remaining in all US states which prohibited acts of sodomy. Virginia would ultimately repeal its individual sodomy ban in early 2014.
  • Homosexual activity becomes legal.
    Consensual same-sex sexual activity has been legal in Mississippi since the United States Supreme Court's ruling in Lawrence v. Texas, which overturned the remaining anti-sodomy laws nationwide in 2003.
  • Homosexual activity becomes legal.
    Consensual same-sex sexual activity has been legal in Louisiana since the United States Supreme Court's ruling in Lawrence v. Texas, which overturned the remaining anti-sodomy laws nationwide in 2003.
  • Homosexual activity becomes legal.
    Consensual same-sex sexual activity has been legal in Texas since the United States Supreme Court's ruling in Lawrence v. Texas, which overturned the remaining anti-sodomy laws nationwide in 2003.
  • Homosexual activity becomes legal.
    Consensual same-sex sexual activity has been legal in Oklahoma since the United States Supreme Court's ruling in Lawrence v. Texas, which overturned the remaining anti-sodomy laws nationwide in 2003.
  • Homosexual activity becomes legal.
    Consensual same-sex sexual activity has been legal in Kansas since the United States Supreme Court's ruling in Lawrence v. Texas, which overturned the remaining anti-sodomy laws nationwide in 2003.
  • Homosexual activity becomes legal.
    The SCOTUS ruling Lawrence v. Texas decriminalised gay sex nationwide. In 2019, Utah repealed its defunct sodomy provisions from its state constitution.
  • Homosexual activity becomes legal.
    Idaho's law banning gay sex was overturned by SCOTUS's decision in Lawrence v. Texas (2003), and definitively repealed in 2022.
  • Homosexual activity becomes legal.
    The U.S. Supreme Court's ruling in Lawrence v. Texas decriminalized gay sex nationwide. Alabama repealed its defunct sodomy ban in 2019.
  • Homosexual activity becomes legal.
    The US Supreme Court's ruling issued in Lawrence v. Texas (2003) struck down all sodomy laws on the basis of privacy and liberty. The decision overturned any laws remaining in all US states which prohibited acts of sodomy. Minnesota's sodomy ban was definitively repealed in May 2023.
  • Homosexual activity becomes legal.
    Consensual same-sex sexual activity has been legal in Florida since the United States Supreme Court's ruling in Lawrence v. Texas, which overturned the remaining anti-sodomy laws nationwide in 2003.
  • Homosexual activity becomes legal.
    Homosexuality was decriminalized at the federal level in the United States through the landmark Supreme Court decision of Lawrence v. Texas in 2003. The court struck down a Texas statute that criminalized sexual acts between same-sex couples, declaring such laws unconstitutional. This judgment set a precedent that rendered similar anti-sodomy statutes across states unenforceable, thereby federally decriminalizing homosexuality in private, consensual settings.
  • June 13
    Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    In 2003, New South Wales passed the Crimes Amendment Act which equalised the age of consent of homosexual relations to heterosexual ones.
  • June 12
    Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    In 2002, Moldova amended its criminal code to make the age of consent for both heterosexual and homosexual intercourse 16, equalising the age of consent. It took effect in 2003. This law also applies in Ungheni.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    In 2002, Moldova amended its criminal code to make the age of consent for both heterosexual and homosexual intercourse 16, equalising the age of consent. It took effect in 2003. This law also applies in Riscani.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    In 2002, Moldova amended its criminal code to make the age of consent for both heterosexual and homosexual intercourse 16, equalising the age of consent. It took effect in 2003. This law also applies in Causeni.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    In 2002, Moldova amended its criminal code to make the age of consent for both heterosexual and homosexual intercourse 16, equalising the age of consent. It took effect in 2003. This law also applies in Calarasi.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    In 2002, Moldova amended its criminal code to make the age of consent for both heterosexual and homosexual intercourse 16, equalising the age of consent. It took effect in 2003. This law also applies in Taraclia.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    In 2002, Moldova amended its criminal code to make the age of consent for both heterosexual and homosexual intercourse 16, equalising the age of consent. It took effect in 2003. This law also applies in Ocnita.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    In 2002, Moldova amended its criminal code to make the age of consent for both heterosexual and homosexual intercourse 16, equalising the age of consent. It took effect in 2003. This law also applies in Straseni.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    In 2002, Moldova amended its criminal code to make the age of consent for both heterosexual and homosexual intercourse 16, equalising the age of consent. It took effect in 2003. This law also applies in Glodeni.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    In 2002, Moldova amended its criminal code to make the age of consent for both heterosexual and homosexual intercourse 16, equalising the age of consent. It took effect in 2003. This law also applies in Hincesti.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    In 2002, Moldova amended its criminal code to make the age of consent for both heterosexual and homosexual intercourse 16, equalising the age of consent. It took effect in 2003. This law also applies in Nisporeni.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    In 2002, Moldova amended its criminal code to make the age of consent for both heterosexual and homosexual intercourse 16, equalising the age of consent. It took effect in 2003. This law also applies in Telenesti.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    In 2002, Moldova amended its criminal code to make the age of consent for both heterosexual and homosexual intercourse 16, equalising the age of consent. It took effect in 2003. This law also applies in Floresti.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    In 2002, Moldova amended its criminal code to make the age of consent for both heterosexual and homosexual intercourse 16, equalising the age of consent. It took effect in 2003. This law also applies in Drochia.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    In 2002, Moldova amended its criminal code to make the age of consent for both heterosexual and homosexual intercourse 16, equalising the age of consent. It took effect in 2003. This law also applies in Criuleni.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    In 2002, Moldova amended its criminal code to make the age of consent for both heterosexual and homosexual intercourse 16, equalising the age of consent. It took effect in 2003. This law also applies in Edinet.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    In 2002, Moldova amended its criminal code to make the age of consent for both heterosexual and homosexual intercourse 16, equalising the age of consent. It took effect in 2003. This law also applies in Ialoveni.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    In 2002, Moldova amended its criminal code to make the age of consent for both heterosexual and homosexual intercourse 16, equalising the age of consent. It took effect in 2003. This law also applies in Cimislia.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    In 2002, Moldova amended its criminal code to make the age of consent for both heterosexual and homosexual intercourse 16, equalising the age of consent. It took effect in 2003. This law also applies in Cahul.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    In 2002, Moldova amended its criminal code to make the age of consent for both heterosexual and homosexual intercourse 16, equalising the age of consent. It took effect in 2003. This law also applies in Leova.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    In 2002, Moldova amended its criminal code to make the age of consent for both heterosexual and homosexual intercourse 16, equalising the age of consent. It took effect in 2003. This law also applies in Basarabeasca.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    In 2002, Moldova amended its criminal code to make the age of consent for both heterosexual and homosexual intercourse 16, equalising the age of consent. It took effect in 2003. This law also applies in Anenii Noi.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    In 2002, Moldova amended its criminal code to make the age of consent for both heterosexual and homosexual intercourse 16, equalising the age of consent. It took effect in 2003. This law also applies in Donduseni.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    In 2002, Moldova amended its criminal code to make the age of consent for both heterosexual and homosexual intercourse 16, equalising the age of consent. It took effect in 2003. This law also applies in Rezina.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    In 2002, Moldova amended its criminal code to make the age of consent for both heterosexual and homosexual intercourse 16, equalising the age of consent. It took effect in 2003. This law also applies in Singerei.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    In 2002, Moldova amended its criminal code to make the age of consent for both heterosexual and homosexual intercourse 16, equalising the age of consent. It took effect in 2003. This law also applies in Orhei.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    In 2002, Moldova amended its criminal code to make the age of consent for both heterosexual and homosexual intercourse 16, equalising the age of consent. It took effect in 2003. This law also applies in Falesti.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    In 2002, Moldova amended its criminal code to make the age of consent for both heterosexual and homosexual intercourse 16, equalising the age of consent. It took effect in 2003. This law also applies in Cantemir.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    In 2002, Moldova amended its criminal code to make the age of consent for both heterosexual and homosexual intercourse 16, equalising the age of consent. It took effect in 2003. This law also applies in Briceni.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    In 2002, Moldova amended its criminal code to make the age of consent for both heterosexual and homosexual intercourse 16, equalising the age of consent. It took effect in 2003. This law also applies in Stefan Voda.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    In 2002, Moldova amended its criminal code to make the age of consent for both heterosexual and homosexual intercourse 16, equalising the age of consent. It took effect in 2003. This law also applies in Soroca.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    In 2002, Moldova amended its criminal code to make the age of consent for both heterosexual and homosexual intercourse 16, equalising the age of consent. It took effect in 2003. This law also applies in Soldanesti.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    In 2002, Moldova amended its criminal code to make the age of consent for both heterosexual and homosexual intercourse 16, equalising the age of consent. It took effect in 2003. This law also applies in the Moldovan-controlled areas of Stinga Nistrului.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    In 2002, Moldova amended its criminal code to make the age of consent for both heterosexual and homosexual intercourse 16, equalising the age of consent. It took effect in 2003. This law also applies in Dubasari.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    In 2002, Moldova amended its criminal code to make the age of consent for both heterosexual and homosexual intercourse 16, equalising the age of consent. It took effect in 2003. This law also applies in Tighina.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    In 2002, Moldova amended its criminal code to make the age of consent for both heterosexual and homosexual intercourse 16, equalising the age of consent. It took effect in 2003. This law also applies in Balti.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    In 2002, Moldova amended its criminal code to make the age of consent for both heterosexual and homosexual intercourse 16, equalising the age of consent. It took effect in 2003. This law also applies in Chisinau.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    In 2002, Moldova amended its criminal code to make the age of consent for both heterosexual and homosexual intercourse 16, equalising the age of consent. It took effect in 2003. This law also applies in Gagauzia.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    In 2002, Moldova amended its criminal code to make the age of consent for both heterosexual and homosexual intercourse 16, equalising the age of consent. It took effect in 2003.
  • June 11
    LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in housing in Campeche under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2016.
  • LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in housing in Nayarit under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2017.
  • LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in housing in Baja California under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2022.
  • LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in housing in Aguascalientes under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2017.
  • LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in housing in Tlaxcala under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2013.
  • LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in housing in Yucatán under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2010.
  • LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in housing in Coahuila under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2020.
  • LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in housing in Durango under federal Mexican law.
  • LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in housing in Guerrero under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2021.
  • LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in employment in Jalisco under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2015.
  • LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in housing in Baja California Sur under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2021.
  • LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in housing in Sinaloa under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2023.
  • LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in housing in Michoacan under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2009.
  • LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, Mexico provided protections from discrimination in housing on the basis of sexual orientation. However, no state would prohibit discrimination on the basis of gender identity until 2009.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in employment in Baja California under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2022.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in employment in Guerrero under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2021.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in employment in Michoacan under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2009.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in employment in Aguascalientes under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2017.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in employment in Coahuila under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2020.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    Until 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in employment in Yucatan under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2010.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in employment in Jalisco under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2015.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in employment in Morelos under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2015.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in employment in Quintana Roo under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2015.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in employment in Nayarit under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2017.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in employment in Durango under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2018.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in employment in Campeche under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2016.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in employment in Baja California Sur under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2021.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in employment in Tlaxcala under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2013.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in employment in Sonora under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2015.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in employment in Queretaro under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remains unprotected.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in employment in Tabasco under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remains unprotected.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in employment in San Luis Potosí under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remains unprotected.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in employment in Nuevo León under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2017.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in employment in Oaxaca under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2018.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in Sonora under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2015.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in Tlaxcala under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2013.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in Baja California Sur under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2021.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in Coahuila under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2020.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in Nayarit under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2017.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in Morelos under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2015.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in San Luis Potosí under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remains unprotected.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in Hidalgo under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2024.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in Guerrero under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2021.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in Michoacán under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2009.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in Oaxaca under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2018.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in Quintana Roo under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2015.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in Tabasco under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remains unprotected.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in Sinaloa under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2023.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in Baja California under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2022.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in Nuevo León under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2017.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in Queretaro under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remains unprotected.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in Aguascalientes under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2017.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in Yucatan under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2010.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in Campeche under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2016.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in Jalisco under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2015.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in employment in Guanajuato under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2024.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in employment in Puebla under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2017.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in Puebla under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2017.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in employment in Colima under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remains unprotected.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in employment in the State of Mexico under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remains unprotected.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in employment in Chihuahua under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remains unprotected.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in employment in Chiapas under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remains unprotected.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in Durango in 2003 under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2018.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in the State of Mexico in 2003 under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remains unprotected.
  • LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in housing in Chihuahua under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remains unprotected.
  • LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in housing in Quintana Roo under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2015.
  • LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in housing in Oaxaca under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2018.
  • LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in housing in Morelos under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2015.
  • LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in housing in Queretaro under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remains unprotected.
  • LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in housing in Chiapas under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remains unprotected.
  • LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in housing in the State of Mexico under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remains unprotected.
  • LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in housing in Sonora under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2015.
  • LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in housing in Colima under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remains unprotected.
  • LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    Sexual orientation has been a protected characteristic from discrimination in housing in Veracruz since 2003 under federal Mexican law. Veracruz would later add it as such in its own anti-discrimination law in 2013. However, gender identity remains unprotected.
  • LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in housing in Puebla under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2017.
  • LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in housing in San Luis Potosi under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remains unprotected.
  • LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in housing in Guanajuato under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2024.
  • LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in housing in Tabasco under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remains unprotected.
  • LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in housing in Nuevo Leon under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2017.
  • LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in housing in Hidalgo under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2024.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in employment in Hidalgo under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2024.
  • LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in housing in Zacatecas under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remains unprotected.
  • LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in housing in Tamaulipas under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2025.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in employment in Tamaulipas under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2025.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Sexual orientation has been a protected characteristic from discrimination in Zacatecas since 2003 under federal Mexican law. Zacatecas would later add it as such in its own anti-discrimination law in 2006. However, gender identity remains unprotected.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Sexual orientation has been a protected characteristic from discrimination in Veracruz since 2003 under federal Mexican law. Veracruz would later add it as such in its own anti-discrimination law in 2013. However, gender identity remains unprotected.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Sexual orientation has been a protected characteristic from discrimination in Guanajuato since 2003 under federal Mexican law. Guanajuato would soon add it as such in its own anti-discrimination law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2024.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Sexual orientation has been a protected characteristic from discrimination in Colima since 2003 under federal Mexican law. Colima would soon add it as such in its own anti-discrimination law. However, gender identity remains unprotected.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Sexual orientation has been a protected characteristic from discrimination in Chihuahua since 2003 under federal Mexican law. Chihuahua would soon add it as such in its own anti-discrimination law. However, gender identity remains unprotected.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in Tamaulipas in 2003 under federal Mexican law. It was soon added as a protected characteristic in the state’s own anti-discrimination laws. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2025.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Sexual orientation has been a protected characteristic from discrimination in Chiapas since 2003 under federal Mexican law. After that, Chiapas added it as such in its own anti-discrimination law. However, there are still no explicit protections provided to gender identity.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in employment in Zacatecas under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remains unprotected.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in employment in Sinaloa under federal Mexican law. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2023.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    Sexual orientation has been a protected characteristic from discrimination in employment in Veracruz since 2003 under federal Mexican law. Veracruz would later add it as such in its own anti-discrimination law in 2013. However, gender identity remains unprotected.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    Most of Mexico's states have enacted laws that ban discrimination based on sexual orientation or sexual preference, as well as gender. Many states also explicitly ban discrimination based on gender identity in local laws. In 2003, Mexico banned discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation in employment federally but no states would protect gender identity until 2009.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Article 1 of the Political Constitution of the United Mexican States has prohibited discrimination on any grounds. However, the explicit mention of sexual orientation as a basis for discrimination was in 2011. Since then, it has also established that all Mexican authorities, within their respective jurisdictions, are obligated to promote, respect, protect, and guarantee human rights, in accordance with the principles of universality, interdependence, indivisibility, and progressiveness. Consequently, the Mexican State must prevent, investigate, sanction, and remedy human rights violations. Provisions related to human rights must be interpreted in accordance with the Constitution and international treaties, always favouring the broadest protection for individuals. Before this, in 2003, the Federal Law to Prevent and Eliminate Discrimination was enacted, marking the first legal tool requiring the Mexican State to create the conditions necessary for the real and effective equality of individuals. As a result, federal authorities must take action, both independently and collaboratively, to remove obstacles that hinder or prevent the full development of individuals and ensure that everyone enjoys the rights and freedoms guaranteed by the Political Constitution of the United Mexican States and by international treaties to which Mexico is a party. And thus, Article 4 (now Article 1, section III after the 2014 reform) of this law explicitly includes sexual orientation as one of the grounds for negative discrimination. Some regions have also began providing protections on the basis of gender identity, starting with Michoacan in 2009.
  • June 10
    Same-sex marriage becomes varies by region.
    On June 10th, 2003, Ontario became the first province in Canada to legalize civil unions for gay couples. The second province to legalize it was British Columbia less than a month later on July 8th, 2003.
  • Same-sex marriage becomes legal.
    Through the case Halpern v. Canada, the definition of marriage as "one man and one woman" was changed to “the voluntary union for life of two persons to the exclusion of all others” to comply with the couples' equality rights under section 15(1) of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
  • June 1
    Same-sex marriage becomes legal.
    Civil marriages for same-sex couples were enabled by Article 143 of the Belgian Civil Code (Book I, Title V, Chapter I), making it the second country in the world to recognise same-sex marriage. Statutory cohabitation remains available for those who do not wish to enter into a civil marriage.
  • May 26
    Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    The Constitution of Rwanda, adopted in May 2003, defines marriage as a union between a man and a woman. Article 26 states: "Only civil monogamous marriage between a man and a woman is recognized."
  • May 1
    LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Before the adoption of the Anti-Discrimination Law in 2010, several laws prohibited discrimination based on sexual orientation: - law on media (2002), article 23; - labour law (2008), article 5. Also, the 2007 Constitution prohibits discrimination in general but it does not mention sexual orientation or gender identity.
  • April 18
    Homosexual activity becomes legal.
    Homosexual activity is not illegal in Armenia.
  • April 11
    LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Since 2003, Section 1 of the Data Protection (Privacy of Personal Information) Act includes “sexual life” among the protected sensitive personal data. The Communications Act (2009) states that The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) may by determination issue regulatory and other measures to regulate content services intended for reception by subscribers of carriage services or by broadcasting. URCA shall issue codes of practice which will be taken into account the matter that is likely to incite or perpetuate hatred against, or vilifies, any person or group on the basis of gender and sexual preference, among others.
  • April 10
    Same-sex marriage becomes civil unions (marriage rights).
    In 2003, the Province of Rio Negro enacted Law 3736 which allowed for same-sex couples to enter into civil unions with the same rights as marriages.
  • April 4
    LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
    In 2003, Santa Catarina passed Law 12,574 which prohibits discrimination in housing on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    In 2003, Santa Catarina passed Law 12,574 which provided protections from discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity in employment, housing and goods and services. However, there were no protections from discrimination in healthcare and education.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
    In 2003, Santa Catarina passed Law 12,574 which prohibits discrimination in employment on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity.
  • March 31
    LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
    A 2003 amendment to Queensland's Anti-Discrimination Act added sexual orientation and gender identity as protected characteristics from housing discrimination.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
    A 2003 amendment to Queensland's Anti-Discrimination Act added sexual orientation and gender identity as protected characteristics from employment discrimination. Previously, only sexual orientation was protected under federal law.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal.
    A 2003 amendment to Queensland's Anti-Discrimination Act added sexual orientation and gender identity as protected characteristics from all forms of discrimination. However, religious exemptions apply.
  • March 1
    LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Before the adoption of the Law on Prohibition of Discrimination from 2009, sexual orientation was one of the explicitly mentioned bases for the prohibition of discrimination in the Criminal Code of BiH from 2003 (Article 145) and the Law on Gender Equality from 2003 (Article 2, Paragraph 2).
  • February 27
    LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Before the adoption of the Anti-Discrimination law in 2008, several laws prohibited discrimination based on sexual orientation: - Law on Croatian Radio and Television (2003), Article 8; - Labor Law, amendment (2003), Article 2; - Law on Gender Equality (2003), Article 6; - Law on Scientific Activity and Higher Education (2003), Article 77; - Law on Electronic Media (2003), Article 15; - Sports Law (2006), Article 1; - Criminal Code, amendment (2006), Article 14; - Law on Volunteerism (2007), Article 9; - Law on Asylum (2007), Article 2.
  • January 16
    LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    New York, in late 2002, passed a discrimination protection for LGB people and was the first of its kind to include provisions for asexual people in defining sexual orientation as "heterosexuality, homosexuality, bisexuality, or asexuality, whether actual or perceived.". The act, known as SONDA, became effective in January of 2003.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal.
    The Sexual Orientation Non-Discrimination Act (SONDA) was passed in early 2003, making it illegal for employers to discriminate against employees. This also includes Transgender people.
  • January 11
    LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, Paraiba passed Law No. 7309 which prohibited discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation in housing. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2017.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    In 2003, Paraiba passed Law No. 7309 which prohibited discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation in all areas. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2017.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2003, Paraiba passed Law No. 7309 which prohibited discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation in employment. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2017.
  • (date unknown)
    LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
    Belgium has full protections against anti-LGBTQIA+ discrimination. This also extends to housing.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires surgery.
    Since 2003, trans people were able to change their legal gender in Hungary but there was no legal procedure and in practice was under the condition of surgery being performed.
  • January 1
    Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires surgery.
    Until 2017, Yukon required surgery for legal gender recognition.
  • (date unknown)
    Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires medical diagnosis.
    Since 2003, Transgender individuals have been allowed to change legal gender in Kazakhstan. People who wanted to change their gender had to receive a diagnosis of "gender identity disorder" involving several medical tests and a 30-day psychiatric evaluation.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires surgery.
    In Zhambyl oblysy, it is legal to change the legal gender after surgery
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    There are no formal restrictions on freedom of expression and association in South Korea. However, in July 2023, the mayor and other municipal officials in Daegu attempted to physically obstruct the annual Daegu Queer Culture Festival, citing traffic violations. They failed and the festival continued.
  • LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
    Since autumn 2003, the Urban Renaissance Agency, the government agency that operates government housing has allowed same-sex couples to rent units the same way as heterosexual couples at any one of the over 300 properties that it operates. This opened the way for more such action, as the Osaka Government in September 2005 opened the doors of its government housing to same-sex couples. In February 2018, the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare created provisions addressing discrimination in housing, stating that "consideration must be taken to not deny lodging on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity."
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    Sexual orientation was protected.
  • January 1
    Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires surgery.
    The authorities shall recognise a person as belonging to the opposite sex to that recorded on the population register, provided they: • Provides a medical report testifying that they permanently experience being a member of the opposite sex and that they live in the gender roles of those and that they have been sterilized or are otherwise incapable of having children • They are an adult • They are not married or in a registered partnership; unless the spouse or partner gives their consent in which case a marriage become a registered partnership and a registered partnership becomes a marriage • They are a Finnish citizen or is resident in Finland
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    Aricle 6 of the 2002 Labour Law prohibits employment discrimination. Sexual orientation is one of explicitly mentioned grounds.
  • Same-sex adoption becomes legal.
    California law states that an adult related to the child, a person named in a deceased parent’s will, a legal guardian, or a person with whom the child has been placed for adoption is permitted to petition to adopt. California §8600, 8601 permit same-sex adoption, and second-parent adoption is legal per case law exhibited via Sharon v. Supreme Court, 31 Cal. 4th 417 (2003). This case also explicitly banned discrimination based on sexual orientation in all adoptions and foster care placements in California.
  • January
    Same-sex marriage becomes unrecognized.
    Taiwan was the first country in the Asia-Pacific region to consider legalizing same-sex marriage but the legislation stalled in the legislature.
  • (date unknown)
    LGBT discrimination becomes illegal.
    Belgium has full protections against anti-LGBTQIA+ discrimination, especially as a member of the European Union.
  • Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    Albania does not legally recognize same-sex marriages, civil unions or domestic partnership benefits. There is no definition of marriage in the 1998 Constitution. Article 53: Everyone has the right to get married and have a family.... The entering into and dissolution of marriage are regulated by law." In the Family Law from 2003, Article 7 reads: "Marriage can be concluded between a man and a woman who are 18 years or older." Article 163 states "Cohabitation is a factual union between a man and a woman."
  • January
    Same-sex adoption becomes legal.
    The 2002 adoption act, which did not take effect until the next year, specifically defined a couple as: "two people (whether of different sexes or the same sex) living as partners in an enduring family relationship", expressly permitting same-sex adoption.
  • December 31
    LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    There are some limited protections based on sexual orientation. -Broadcasting Standard Operating Procedure issued by the Independent Broadcasting Authority (IBA). -Professional Code of Ethics and Discipline (2014) isued by the Health Professions Council of Zambia. -Information & Communication Technology Standards and Guidelines (2014) issued by the Ministry of Health. -National Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health Policy (2015). -Zambia Consolidated Guidelines for Treatment and Prevention of HIV Infection (2022) issued by the Ministry of Health. -Gender Equality Strategy and Action Plan for the Energy Sector (2022).
  • December 19
    LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2002, Rio Grande do Sul passed Law 11,872 which prohibited discrimination in housing on the basis of sexual orientation. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2019.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    In 2002, Rio Grande do Sul passed Law 11,872 which prohibited discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation in employment, housing and goods and services. However, there were no protections in education or healthcare. Additionally, gender identity remained unprotected in all areas.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2002, Rio Grande do Sul passed Law 11,872 which prohibited discrimination in employment on the basis of sexual orientation. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2019.
  • December 13
    Same-sex marriage becomes unregistered cohabitation.
    With the 2002 Discrimination Law Amendment Act, the Queensland government amended several pieces of legislation, granting several rights to unregistered domestic partners.
  • Blood donations by MSMs becomes banned (1-year deferral).
    In 2002, Brazil reduced the ban on blood donations from MSMs to a 1-year deferral period.
  • December 12
    Same-sex marriage becomes civil unions (marriage rights).
    In 2002, a Civil Union law was passed in Buenos Aires City which provided same-sex couples with the possibility of civil unions. The only restrictions were the same ones applied to marriages.
  • Same-sex marriage becomes varies by region.
    Before the legalisation of same-sex marriage in Argentina, several regions enacted civil unions starting with Buenos Aires City in 2002. In 2008, Argentina would provide federal recognition to same-sex couples as unregistered cohabitations for pensions from their partners.
  • November 7
    (deleted region)
    Same-sex adoption becomes legal.
    IVF treatment is available for lesbian couples too.
  • (deleted region)
    Same-sex adoption becomes legal.
    IVF treatment is available for lesbian couples too.
  • (deleted region)
    Same-sex adoption becomes legal.
    IVF treatment for Lesbian couples is possible.
  • September 10
    Same-sex adoption becomes legal.
    Legal under the case of Du Toit v Minister of Welfare and Population Development, later made official through the Consolidated Children's Act of 2010
  • September 4
    Same-sex adoption becomes illegal.
    Family Law adopted on July 25, 2002 recognized two categories of adoption: "incomplete adoption" and "full adoption". In the first case, adoptive parents could be both individuals and married partners (Articles 150-155). In the second case, adoptive parents are married partners only (Articles 156-160).
  • September 1
    Homosexual activity becomes legal.
    According to the laws of Mongolia
  • Homosexual activity becomes legal.
    From 2001,Same sex acts and realtionships are legal in Mongolia
  • August 29
    Equal age of consent becomes n/a.
    Since 2002, homosexuality is illegal in South Sumatra.
  • Homosexual activity becomes illegal (imprisonment as punishment).
    Although not illegal on the federal level, in 2002, South Sumatra passed a provision characterising homosexuality as “immoral actions” criminalising it in the process.
  • Equal age of consent becomes varies by region.
    In 2002, homosexuality was criminalised in South Sumatra. In 2015, the same would apply to Aceh. Elsewhere, homosexuality is legal but the age of consent remained unequal until 2019.
  • Homosexual activity becomes varies by region.
    Sex between consenting adults (18 years of age by the Law on Child Protection, No. 23/2002) of the same sex or gender is not criminalized in the Indonesian Penal Code. Same-sex sexual activity in Indonesia is legal (not criminalized), with the exception of Aceh in 2015 and South Sumatra in 2002.
  • July 27
    LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Before the adoption of the Anti-Discrimination law in 2009, several laws prohibited discrimination based on sexual orientation: - broadcasting law (2002), article 21; - law on public information (2003), aticle 38; - labour law (2005), article 18; - law on higher education (2005), article 8. Also, the 2006 Constitution prohibits discrimination in general but it does not mention sexual orientation or gender identity.
  • July 11
    Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    The revised Criminal Code equalised the age of consent to 17, after pressure from the EU.
  • June 24
    Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    The age of consent between people with maximum 5 years of difference is 14. Sexual contact between coetaneous is never punishable.
  • June 22
    Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    The age of consent for both homosexual and heterosexual intercourse is 16 in Transnistria.
  • Homosexual activity becomes legal.
    Consensual same-sex sexual activity is legal in Transnistria, despite many foreign sources saying that it is illegal. Article 131 of the Criminal Code of Transnistria that came into force in June 2002, states that committing sodomy, lesbianism and sexual intercourse with a person under the age of sixteen is illegal. However, the article does not state that committing 'sodomy and lesbianism' above 16 is illegal. All the other articles related to sex crimes, such as sexual assault and coercion to perform sexual acts, have listed '(heterosexual) sexual intercourse, sodomy and lesbianism' in the same category. There are no other articles in the Criminal Code of Transnistria that have laws that are separated in penalizing same-sex sexual activity, or committing 'sodomy and lesbianism.'
  • June 21
    Homosexual activity becomes illegal (death penalty as punishment).
    In Kaduna, along with Yobe, the definition of sodomy is vague. In these states, "sodomy" is committed by "[w]hoever has anal coitus with any man". The punishment for sodomy in Kaduna under the Sharia Penal Code Law 2002, is stoning to death (rajm). The punishment for lesbianism ("[w]hoever, being a woman, engages another woman in carnal intercourse through her sexual organ or by means of stimulation or sexual excitement of one another.") is ta'azir, which means "any punishment not provided for by way of hadd or qisas". "Hadd" means "punishment that is fixed by Islamic law". "Qisas" includes "punishments inflicted upon offenders by way of retaliation for causing death/injuries to a person"
  • June 8
    Same-sex marriage becomes civil unions (marriage rights).
    Quebec legalized civil unions on June 8th, 2002. Those unions gave gay couples the same rights as straight ones without changing the definition of marriage.
  • June 7
    Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    In 2002, the State of Mexico banned same-sex marriage. It also listed bisexuality as a reason to prohibit marriage.
  • June 6
    Same-sex adoption becomes legal.
    The Swedish parliament has overwhelmingly voted to allow gay couples to adopt.
  • May 20
    Same-sex marriage becomes unrecognized.
    Until 2011, Timor-Leste had no laws explicitly banning same-sex marriage since independence from Indonesia in 2002. However, there was also no legal recognition provided to same-sex couples.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    According to articles 177 and 178 of the Penal Code, the age of consent is equal regardless of sexual orientation since independence in 2002.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes illegal.
    Transgender Timorese currently do not have the right to change their legal gender. The ability for Timorese to change their legal gender was not carried over after independence from Indonesia in 2002.
  • May 17
    Serving openly in military becomes illegal.
    In 2002, language was added that prohibited people with "βαριές ψυχοσεξουαλικές διαταραχές" - translating to severe psychosexual disturbances/disorders - from serving in the military. Evidence of the enforcement of this provision is very limited.
  • May 1
    LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2002, while under United Nations occupation, Timor-Leste passed a Labour Code that prohibited discrimination in employment on the basis of sexual orientation.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Within the penal code, discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation (and discrimination in general) is treated as an aggravating circumstances since 2009. Sexual orientation was also a protected characteristic from employment discrimination since 2002 until 2012.
  • April 17
    Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    The Acts Amendment (lesbian and gay law reform) Act 2002 repealed legislation which unfairly penalised LGBT people, including laws setting an unequal age of consent. This also applies in Christmas Island.
  • Same-sex adoption becomes legal.
    In 2002, Western Australia became the first state in Australia to allow same-sex adoption when it passed the Lesbian and Gay Law Reform Act, which amended the Adoption Act of 1994 to allow same-sex couples to adopt. This also applies in the Cocos Islands.
  • Same-sex adoption becomes legal.
    In 2002, Western Australia became the first state in Australia to allow same-sex adoption when it passed the Lesbian and Gay Law Reform Act, which amended the Adoption Act of 1994 to allow same-sex couples to adopt. This also applies in Christmas Island.
  • LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2002, Western Australia passed the Lesbian and Gay Law Reform Act which prohibited discrimination in housing on the basis of sexual orientation. This also applied in Christmas Island. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2013.
  • LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2002, Western Australia passed the Lesbian and Gay Law Reform Act which prohibited discrimination in housing on the basis of sexual orientation. This also applied in the Cocos Islands. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2013.
  • Same-sex adoption becomes legal.
    In 2002, Western Australia became the first state in Australia to allow same-sex adoption when it passed the Lesbian and Gay Law Reform Act, which amended the Adoption Act of 1994 to allow same-sex couples to adopt.
  • LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2002, Western Australia passed the Lesbian and Gay Law Reform Act which prohibited discrimination in housing on the basis of sexual orientation. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2013.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    The Acts Amendment (lesbian and gay law reform) Act 2002 repealed legislation which unfairly penalised LGBT people, including laws setting an unequal age of consent.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    There have been no laws censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Australia since the repeal of censorship laws in Western Australia in 2002 until 2024. Bias of coverage is more based on media concentration.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Since the Lesbian and Gay Law Reform Act of 2002 repealed the Decriminalisation of Sodomy Act of 1989 which contained a section banning the promotion of homosexual activity, Western Australia has no laws censoring LGBTIQ+ topics. This also applies to the Cocos Islands.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Since the Lesbian and Gay Law Reform Act of 2002 repealed the Decriminalisation of Sodomy Act of 1989 which contained a section banning the promotion of homosexual activity, Western Australia has no laws censoring LGBTIQ+ topics.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    Since the Lesbian and Gay Law Reform Act of 2002 repealed the Decriminalisation of Sodomy Act of 1989 which contained a section banning the promotion of homosexual activity, Western Australia has no laws censoring LGBTIQ+ topics. This also applies to Christmas Island.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    The Acts Amendment (lesbian and gay law reform) Act 2002 repealed legislation which unfairly penalised LGBT people, including laws setting an unequal age of consent. This also applies in the Cocos Islands.
  • April 1
    Same-sex adoption becomes legal.
    Newfoundland amended their Adoption Act in 1999, taking effect in 2002, allowing same-sex couples to adopt by changing the wording to: "one adult alone or two adults jointly may apply to a court to adopt a child under this Act".
  • March 1
    Same-sex adoption becomes illegal.
    Same-sex couples or even homosexuals are not allowed to adopt in Kenya. Chapter 141, Section 158 of Kenya's The Children Act states: "An adoption order shall not be made if the applicant or, in the case of joint applicants, both or any of them [...] is a homosexual."
  • February 28
    Same-sex marriage becomes unrecognized.
    There is no definition of marriage in Republika Srpska 1992 Constitution. Article 36: "Marriage and marriage & family relations are regulated by law" The Family Laws of 2002 and 2023 have the same definition of marriage in articles 4: "Marriage is a union of life between husband and wife regulated by law."
  • January 23
    LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    The Anti-discrimination law (Law No. 7 2018) does not explicity include sexual orientation and gender identity as protected categories. However, there are legal provisions in specific laws that explicitly mention sexual orientation and gender identity as a category protected against discrimination: - Law 6 (2002) that dictates rules for transparency in public management, establishes the action of Habeas Data and dictates other provisions, establishes sexual orientation as confidential information, which may not be disclosed under any circumstances by State agents. Law 16 (2002) that Regulates the right of admission in public establishments and establishes measures to avoid discrimination, prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation. - Law 12 that Regulates the activity of insurance and dictates other provisions (2012), establishes that the sexual orientation of the contracting party or insured is understood as confidential information. -Law 6 (2017) that creates the National Mechanism for the Prevention of Torture and other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, establishes that confidential information is understood to be all types of data and information that are relevant to people's medical and psychological data, the private life of individuals, including their gender identity or sexual orientation. -Law 81 (2019) on the Protection of Personal Data, personal data that may reveal aspects related to sexual preference or orientation are considered sensitive.
  • January 18
    LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2002, France passed Law 73 which prohibited discrimination in housing on the basis of sexual orientation. This also applied to New Caledonia. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2014.
  • LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2002, France passed Law 73 which prohibited discrimination in housing on the basis of sexual orientation. This also applied to French Guiana. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2014.
  • LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2002, France passed Law 73 which prohibited discrimination in housing on the basis of sexual orientation. This also applied to Martinique. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2014.
  • LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2002, France passed Law 73 which prohibited discrimination in housing on the basis of sexual orientation. This also applied to Guadeloupe. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2014.
  • LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2002, France passed Law 73 which prohibited discrimination in housing on the basis of sexual orientation. This also applied to Reunion. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2014.
  • LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2002, France passed Law 73 which prohibited discrimination in housing on the basis of sexual orientation. This also applied to Mayotte. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2014.
  • January 15
    LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2002, Minas Gerais passed Law 14,170 which prohibited discrimination in housing on the basis of sexual orientation. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2019.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2002, Minas Gerais passed Law 14,170 which prohibited discrimination in employment on the basis of sexual orientation. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2019.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Law 14170 of January 15, 2002. Determines the imposition of penalties for companies who practice discriminatory act against a person because of their sexual orientation.
  • January 6
    Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    The age of consent of 14 years is equal for everyone.
  • (date unknown)
    Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    The 2002 "Compulsory Registration of Marriages Act" refers to a bride and bridegroom.
  • January 1
    Blood donations by MSMs becomes banned (indefinite deferral).
    One of the many countries were lgbt people cannot donate.
  • (date unknown)
    Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires medical diagnosis.
    In order to change your legal gender in Iowa, you need to have a physician sign off that you have undergone appropriate clinical treatment in your gender transition. Although surgery to change your gender is an option, it is not required. Also, it is not explicitly stated that you need to be diagnosed with gender dysphoria in order to change your gender.
  • Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    Article 123 of the Persons and Family Code (2002) states: “Marriage may only be contracted between a man of at least eighteen years of age and a woman of at least eighteen years of age.”
  • Same-sex adoption becomes legal.
    Any individual may petition for single parent or joint adoption. Second-parent adoption is permitted via case law referenced below.
  • January 1
    Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    Equal age of consent set at 14 since a Constitutional Court ruling in 2002.
  • (date unknown)
    Homosexual activity becomes legal.
    In Arkansas in 2002 there was a state supreme court hearing about homosexual activities (sodomy), about a 1977 law that forbid the acts. It was overturned, and it is now currently legal. Supreme Court ruled in 2003 that homosexual acts are legal, and any imprisonment with the 1977 law would be released.
  • January
    Serving openly in military becomes lesbians, gays, bisexuals permitted, transgender people banned.
    Taiwan allows gay and lesbian soldiers provided they maintain military discipline standards. However it is very ambiguous whether trans people are allowed or not. Most easily accessible sources in regards to military service do not mention trans people at all. One source claims that two trans men were considered for mandatory service, yet were allowed to choose not to as "they were not psychologically prepared to live with other men in a setting like the military."
  • (date unknown)
    Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    The Fijian Marriage Act of 1968 was adjusted in 2002 to explicitly state that "marriage in this registry (or place) which is in law the voluntary union of one man and one woman to the exclusion of all others." Additionally, previous Fijian Prime Ministers have been opposed to same-sex marriage.
  • December 21
    LGBT employment discrimination becomes ambiguous.
    Article 12 of the 2001 Labour Law prohibited discrimination in employment but did not mention sexual orientation or gender identity.
  • November 27
    LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    A new, legally binding, directive issued by the EU in 2000 prohibited discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation in employment. French law followed suit and introduced protections on the basis of sexual orientation the next year.
  • November 23
    Homosexual activity becomes illegal (death penalty as punishment).
    The Sharia Penal Code Law 2001 took effect in Gombe on November 23rd, 2001. Within the Penal Code, consensual same-sex sexual activity is punished with caning of one hundred lashes if unmarried, and the offender shall also be liable to imprisonment for the term of one year. If the offender is married they shall be punished with stoning to death (rajm).
  • November 17
    LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2001, France passed Law 1066 which added sexual orientation as a protected characteristic from discrimination in employment. This also applied to Guadeloupe. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2012.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2001, France passed Law 1066 which added sexual orientation as a protected characteristic from discrimination in employment. This also applied to Martinique. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2012.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2001, France passed Law 1066 which added sexual orientation as a protected characteristic from discrimination in employment. This also applied to French Guiana. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2012.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2001, France passed Law 1066 which added sexual orientation as a protected characteristic from discrimination in employment. This also applied to New Caledonia. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2012.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    In 2001, the first protections against discrimination were provided to LGBTIQ+ people in New Caledonia when Law 1066 was passed prohibiting discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation in goods and services and employment. Since then, discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation were criminalised in the below: -Law 73: Housing (2002) -Law 496: All Other Areas (2008) Gender identity would later be protected under Law 954 passed in 2012 in all areas except for housing.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    In 2001, the first protections against discrimination were provided to LGBTIQ+ people in French Guiana when Law 1066 was passed prohibiting discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation in goods and services and employment. Since then, discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation were criminalised in the below: -Law 73: Housing (2002) -Law 496: All Other Areas (2008) Gender identity would later be protected under Law 954 passed in 2012 in all areas except for housing.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    In 2001, the first protections against discrimination were provided to LGBTIQ+ people in Martinique when Law 1066 was passed prohibiting discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation in goods and services and employment. Since then, discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation were criminalised in the below: -Law 73: Housing (2002) -Law 496: All Other Areas (2008) Gender identity would later be protected under Law 954 passed in 2012 in all areas except for housing.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    In 2001, the first protections against discrimination were provided to LGBTIQ+ people in Guadeloupe when Law 1066 was passed prohibiting discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation in goods and services and employment. Since then, discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation were criminalised in the below: -Law 73: Housing (2002) -Law 496: All Other Areas (2008) Gender identity would later be protected under Law 954 passed in 2012 in all areas except for housing.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    In 2001, the first protections against discrimination were provided to LGBTIQ+ people in Reunion when Law 1066 was passed prohibiting discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation in goods and services and employment. Since then, discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation were criminalised in the below: -Law 73: Housing (2002) -Law 496: All Other Areas (2008) Gender identity would later be protected under Law 954 passed in 2012 in all areas except for housing.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2001, France passed Law 1066 which added sexual orientation as a protected characteristic from discrimination in employment. This also applied to Reunion. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2012.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    In 2001, the first protections against discrimination were provided to LGBTIQ+ people in Mayotte when Law 1066 was passed prohibiting discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation in goods and services. Since then, discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation were criminalised in the below: -Law 73: Housing (2002) -Ordinance 44: Employment (2005) -Law 496: All Other Areas (2008) Gender identity would later be protected under Law 954 passed in 2012 in all areas except for housing.
  • November 5
    LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
    In 2001, São Paulo passed Law No. 10,948 which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity in housing.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    In 2001, São Paulo passed Law 10,948 which provided protections from discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity in employment, housing and goods and services. However, there were no protections from discrimination in healthcare and education.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
    In 2001, São Paulo passed Law No. 10948 which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity in employment.
  • October 1
    LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    Maryland's state legislature passed and the governor signed the Anti-Discrimination Act of 2001, prohibiting discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation in employment. It took effect in October of that year.
  • September 28
    Same-sex marriage becomes civil unions (marriage rights).
    Same-sex couples are legally able to form registered partnerships, with all the rights of marriage exept for adoption rights and taking your partner’s surname.
  • September 19
    Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires surgery.
    In 2001, an amendment was made to Tasmania’s Births, Deaths and Marriages Registration Act which provided for legal gender recognition provided that surgery had been performed.
  • September 14
    Blood donations by MSMs becomes banned (indefinite deferral).
    On September 14th, 2001, the Russian Ministry of Health announced that men who have sex with men would be considered part of high risk groups along with prostitutes and drug addicts and be banned from donating blood.
  • September 7
    Blood donations by MSMs becomes banned (indefinite deferral).
    LGBT Panamanians and foreigners are ineligible to donate blood in Panama since 2001.
  • September 1
    Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    Age of consent is equal at 16 years old.
  • August 22
    LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2001, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in housing in Alagoas. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2019.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    In 2001, Alagoas prohibited all forms of discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2019.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2001, sexual orientation became a protected characteristic from discrimination in employment in Alagoas. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2019.
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    In Chiapas, there are no laws restricting the discussion or promotion of LGBTQ+ topics since the removal of homosexuality as a "corrupt habit" in its corruption of minors law in 2001.
  • August 1
    (deleted region)
    Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    On November 30, 2000 a bill was signed to make the ages of consent equitable, regardless of gender. The law came into effect on August 1, 2001. The age of consent for men who have sex with men was reduced from 18 to 16, on par with different sex individuals.
  • (deleted region)
    Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    Consent is equal.
  • (deleted region)
    Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    On November 30, 2000 a bill was signed to make the ages of consent equitable, regardless of gender. The law came into effect on August 1, 2001. The age of consent for men who have sex with men was reduced from 18 to 16, on par with different sex individuals.
  • (deleted region)
    Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    On November 30, 2000 a bill was signed to make the ages of consent equitable, regardless of gender. The law came into effect on August 1, 2001. The age of consent for men who have sex with men was reduced from 18 to 16, on par with different sex individuals.
  • (deleted region)
    Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    On November 30, 2000 a bill was signed to make the ages of consent equitable, regardless of gender. The law came into effect on August 1, 2001. The age of consent for men who have sex with men was reduced from 18 to 16, on par with different sex individuals.
  • Same-sex marriage becomes civil unions (marriage rights).
    Germany recognizes civil unions and provides tax benefits to couples in a civil union.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    On November 30, 2000 a bill was signed to make the ages of consent equitable, regardless of gender. The law came into effect on August 1, 2001. The age of consent for men who have sex with men was reduced from 18 to 16, on par with different sex individuals.
  • July 11
    Intersex infant surgery becomes parental approval required.
    All surgeries require parental consent
  • July 10
    Same-sex adoption becomes legal.
    On July 10th 2001, a Nova Scotia judge invalidates the requirement for marriage for adoption after a same-sex couple pleaded their case. Before then, same-sex couples were banned from adopting as they could not be married.
  • June 21
    Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    In 2001, Article 200, a law which criminalised “propaganda or any other act of proselytism” of homosexuality, was repealed in Romania.
  • June 20
    Homosexual activity becomes illegal (death penalty as punishment).
    The Sharia Penal Code Law 2001 took effect in Katsina on June 20th, 2001. Within the Penal Code, consensual same-sex sexual activity is punished with stoning to death (rajm).
  • June 12
    Same-sex marriage becomes other type of partnership.
    Marriage Law is subject to Federal Law, Victoria afforded same sex relationships equal status as defacto heterosexual relationships (as domestic partnerships) in 2001
  • May 8
    Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    Equal since the Arizona Equity Act of 2001 repealed the state's sodomy laws and legalised homosexuality.
  • Homosexual activity becomes legal.
    Legislative repeal, effective 2001.
  • May 2
    Homosexual activity becomes legal.
    Homosexuality is now legal in Minnesota, although the state would not repeal its legislative sodomy provisions until 2023.
  • May
    Homosexual activity becomes illegal (death penalty as punishment).
    The Sharia Penal Code Law 2001 does not have a documented specific date of when it came into effect. However, it has been guessed to have came into effect in Bauchi in May of 2001. Within the Penal Code, consensual same-sex sexual activity is punished with stoning to death (rajm) or by any other means decided by the state.
  • April 30
    Censorship of LGBT issues becomes state-enforced.
    In 2001, Utah’s public education curriculum was amended to require that school boards prohibit instruction in “the advocacy of homosexuality.”
  • April 26
    Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires medical diagnosis.
    Transgender people are allowed to change their legal name and gender on official documents in Moldova, but require a psychiatric diagnosis confirming their "transgenderism" to do so. This also applies in the Moldovan-controlled areas of Stinga Nistrului. For information on the parts controlled by the Pridnestrovian Moldavian Republic, see Transnistria’s entry.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires medical diagnosis.
    Transgender people are allowed to change their legal name and gender on official documents in Moldova, but require a psychiatric diagnosis confirming their "transgenderism" to do so. This also applies in Donduseni.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires medical diagnosis.
    Transgender people are allowed to change their legal name and gender on official documents in Moldova, but require a psychiatric diagnosis confirming their "transgenderism" to do so. This also applies in Glodeni.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires medical diagnosis.
    Transgender people are allowed to change their legal name and gender on official documents in Moldova, but require a psychiatric diagnosis confirming their "transgenderism" to do so. This also applies in Taraclia.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires medical diagnosis.
    Transgender people are allowed to change their legal name and gender on official documents in Moldova, but require a psychiatric diagnosis confirming their "transgenderism" to do so. This also applies in Telenesti.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires medical diagnosis.
    Transgender people are allowed to change their legal name and gender on official documents in Moldova, but require a psychiatric diagnosis confirming their "transgenderism" to do so. This also applies in Drochia.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires medical diagnosis.
    Transgender people are allowed to change their legal name and gender on official documents in Moldova, but require a psychiatric diagnosis confirming their "transgenderism" to do so. This also applies in Cantemir.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires medical diagnosis.
    Transgender people are allowed to change their legal name and gender on official documents in Moldova, but require a psychiatric diagnosis confirming their "transgenderism" to do so. This also applies in Singerei.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires medical diagnosis.
    Transgender people are allowed to change their legal name and gender on official documents in Moldova, but require a psychiatric diagnosis confirming their "transgenderism" to do so. This also applies in Soldanesti.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires medical diagnosis.
    Transgender people are allowed to change their legal name and gender on official documents in Moldova, but require a psychiatric diagnosis confirming their "transgenderism" to do so. This also applies in Falesti.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires medical diagnosis.
    Transgender people are allowed to change their legal name and gender on official documents in Moldova, but require a psychiatric diagnosis confirming their "transgenderism" to do so. This also applies in Nisporeni.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires medical diagnosis.
    Transgender people are allowed to change their legal name and gender on official documents in Moldova, but require a psychiatric diagnosis confirming their "transgenderism" to do so. This also applies in Hincesti.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires medical diagnosis.
    Transgender people are allowed to change their legal name and gender on official documents in Moldova, but require a psychiatric diagnosis confirming their "transgenderism" to do so. This also applies in Ialoveni.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires medical diagnosis.
    Transgender people are allowed to change their legal name and gender on official documents in Moldova, but require a psychiatric diagnosis confirming their "transgenderism" to do so. This also applies in Edinet.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires medical diagnosis.
    Transgender people are allowed to change their legal name and gender on official documents in Moldova, but require a psychiatric diagnosis confirming their "transgenderism" to do so. This also applies in Ocnita.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires medical diagnosis.
    Transgender people are allowed to change their legal name and gender on official documents in Moldova, but require a psychiatric diagnosis confirming their "transgenderism" to do so. This also applies in Ungheni.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires medical diagnosis.
    Transgender people are allowed to change their legal name and gender on official documents in Moldova, but require a psychiatric diagnosis confirming their "transgenderism" to do so. This also applies in Rezina.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires medical diagnosis.
    Transgender people are allowed to change their legal name and gender on official documents in Moldova, but require a psychiatric diagnosis confirming their "transgenderism" to do so. This also applies in Floresti.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires medical diagnosis.
    Transgender people are allowed to change their legal name and gender on official documents in Moldova, but require a psychiatric diagnosis confirming their "transgenderism" to do so. This also applies in Calarasi.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires medical diagnosis.
    Transgender people are allowed to change their legal name and gender on official documents in Moldova, but require a psychiatric diagnosis confirming their "transgenderism" to do so. This also applies in Stefan Voda.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires medical diagnosis.
    Transgender people are allowed to change their legal name and gender on official documents in Moldova, but require a psychiatric diagnosis confirming their "transgenderism" to do so. This also applies in Criuleni.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires medical diagnosis.
    Transgender people are allowed to change their legal name and gender on official documents in Moldova, but require a psychiatric diagnosis confirming their "transgenderism" to do so. This also applies in Leova.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires medical diagnosis.
    Transgender people are allowed to change their legal name and gender on official documents in Moldova, but require a psychiatric diagnosis confirming their "transgenderism" to do so. This also applies in Straseni.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires medical diagnosis.
    Transgender people are allowed to change their legal name and gender on official documents in Moldova, but require a psychiatric diagnosis confirming their "transgenderism" to do so. This also applies in Tighina.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires medical diagnosis.
    Transgender people are allowed to change their legal name and gender on official documents in Moldova, but require a psychiatric diagnosis confirming their "transgenderism" to do so. This also applies in Briceni.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires medical diagnosis.
    Transgender people are allowed to change their legal name and gender on official documents in Moldova, but require a psychiatric diagnosis confirming their "transgenderism" to do so. This also applies in Anenii Noi.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires medical diagnosis.
    Transgender people are allowed to change their legal name and gender on official documents in Moldova, but require a psychiatric diagnosis confirming their "transgenderism" to do so. This also applies in Riscani.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires medical diagnosis.
    Transgender people are allowed to change their legal name and gender on official documents in Moldova, but require a psychiatric diagnosis confirming their "transgenderism" to do so. This also applies to Causeni.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires medical diagnosis.
    Transgender people are allowed to change their legal name and gender on official documents in Moldova, but require a psychiatric diagnosis confirming their "transgenderism" to do so. This law also applies in Soroca.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires medical diagnosis.
    Transgender people are allowed to change their legal name and gender on official documents in Moldova, but require a psychiatric diagnosis confirming their "transgenderism" to do so. This law also applies in Cahul.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires medical diagnosis.
    Transgender people are allowed to change their legal name and gender on official documents in Moldova, but require a psychiatric diagnosis confirming their "transgenderism" to do so. This law also applies in Orhei.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires medical diagnosis.
    Transgender people are allowed to change their legal name and gender on official documents in Moldova, but require a psychiatric diagnosis confirming their "transgenderism" to do so. This law also applies in Balti.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires medical diagnosis.
    Transgender people are allowed to change their legal name and gender on official documents in Moldova, but require a psychiatric diagnosis confirming their "transgenderism" to do so. This law also applies in Basarabeasca.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires medical diagnosis.
    Transgender people are allowed to change their legal name and gender on official documents in Moldova, but require a psychiatric diagnosis confirming their "transgenderism" to do so. This law also applies in Dubasari.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires medical diagnosis.
    Transgender people are allowed to change their legal name and gender on official documents in Moldova, but require a psychiatric diagnosis confirming their "transgenderism" to do so. This law also applies in Cimislia.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires medical diagnosis.
    Transgender people are allowed to change their legal name and gender on official documents in Moldova, but require a psychiatric diagnosis confirming their "transgenderism" to do so. The law also applied to Chișinău.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires medical diagnosis.
    Transgender people are allowed to change their legal name and gender on official documents in Moldova, but require a psychiatric diagnosis confirming their "transgenderism" to do so. The law also applied to Gagauzia.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes illegal.
    There is no process for legal gender recognition in Transnistria. In 2025, there are even plans to ban gender transition.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires medical diagnosis.
    Transgender people are allowed to change their legal name and gender on official documents in Moldova, but require a psychiatric diagnosis confirming their "transgenderism" to do so.
  • April 25
    Homosexual activity becomes illegal (death penalty as punishment).
    The Sharia Penal Code Law 2000 took effect in Yobe on April 25th, 2001. In Yobe, along with Kaduna, the definition of sodomy is vague. In these states, "sodomy" is committed by "[w]hoever has anal coitus with any man". The punishment for sodomy in Yobe under the Sharia Penal Code Law 2000, is stoning to death (rajm). The punishment for lesbianism ("[w]hoever, being a woman, engages another woman in carnal intercourse through her sexual organ or by means of stimulation or sexual excitement of one another.") is caning which may extend to fifty lashes and in addition be sentenced to a term of imprisonment which may extend to six months.
  • April 12
    Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    There are no laws restricting the discussion or promotion of LGBTQ+ topics in Tasmania since the repeal of a cross-dressing offence in 2001.
  • April 1
    Same-sex marriage becomes legal.
    In April 2001, the Kingdom of the Netherlands was the first jurisdiction to legalise same-sex marriage.
  • Same-sex marriage becomes legal.
    The Netherlands became the first country in the world to legalize gay marriage. The Lower Chamber voted 109 in favor on the same-sex marriage, with 33 against on September 12, 2000. On December 19, the Higher Chamber votes 'yes' on the bill. Queen Beatrix ratified the law on December 21st and it went into effect on April 1, 2001.
  • Same-sex marriage becomes legal.
    The Netherlands became the first country in the world to legalize gay marriage. The Lower Chamber voted 109 in favor on the same-sex marriage, with 33 against on September 12, 2000. On December 19, the Higher Chamber votes 'yes' on the bill. Queen Beatrix ratified the law on December 21st and it went into effect on April 1, 2001.
  • March 13
    Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    With the Criminal Code Amendments of 2001, the age of consent of 14 became equal for everyone.
  • January 31
    Homosexual activity becomes illegal (death penalty as punishment).
    The Sharia Penal Code Law 2000 took effect in Sokoto on January 31st, 2001. Within the Penal Code, consensual same-sex sexual activity is punished with stoning to death. If the act is committed by a minor on an adult person the adult person shall be punished by way of ta'azir which may extend to 100 lashes and minor with correctional punishment.
  • January 8
    Equal age of consent becomes equal.
  • (date unknown)
    Homosexual activity becomes male illegal, female legal.
    After the fall of the Taliban, the 1976 Penal Code was readopted, and its punishments and penalties were reinstated.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires surgery.
    In 2001, Colorado provided for legal gender recognition but required proof of surgery.
  • Blood donations by MSMs becomes legal.
    Italy uses a risk-based donor selection system that treats MSM and heterosexual partners equally.
  • Homosexual activity becomes legal.
    Homosexuality has been decriminalised in 2001
  • Censorship of LGBT issues becomes state-enforced.
    The Government of South Korea practiced censorship of gay content websites from 2001 to 2003, through its Information and Communications Ethics Committee, an official organ of the Ministry of Information and Communication.
  • January 1
    Equal age of consent becomes unequal.
    Homosexuality was decriminalised in the Cayman Islands in 2001 but has a higher age of consent than for heterosexuality.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    The age of concent was equalised at the same time as homosexual activity was decriminalised.
  • Equal age of consent becomes unequal.
    On 13 December 2000, Caribbean Territories (Criminal Law) Order 2000 decriminalised consensual same-sex acts in private for two people over the age of 18. Age of consent for heterosexual couples is under 16.
  • (date unknown)
    Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    Although homosexual activity has been legal since 1989, the age of consent between homosexual couples and the age of consent between heterosexual couples was not equalized until 2001. The age of consent is currently 14 years old.
  • January 1
    Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires surgery.
    In a 2001 amendment, sex change is possible but only with surgery.
  • (date unknown)
    LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
    State law provides for protections against employment discrimination in regards to both sexual orientation and gender identification.
  • January 1
    Equal age of consent becomes equal.
  • (date unknown)
    Equal age of consent becomes equal.
  • Homosexual activity becomes legal.
    There are no laws against homosexuality in South Georgia and the South Sandwich islands.
  • January 1
    Equal age of consent becomes unequal.
    The age of consent for homosexuals in Montserrat is 18 while it is 16 for heterosexuals.
  • Homosexual activity becomes legal.
    On 13 December 2000, Caribbean Territories (Criminal Law) Order 2000 decriminalised consensual same-sex acts in private for two people over the age of 18. The order came in to force on 1 January 2001. It does not apply to acts with more than two parties, or in public lavatories.
  • Homosexual activity becomes legal.
    On 13 December 2000, Caribbean Territories (Criminal Law) Order 2000 decriminalised consensual same-sex acts in private for two people over the age of 18. The order came in to force on 1 January 2001. It does not apply to acts with more than two parties, or in public lavatories.
  • Homosexual activity becomes legal.
    On 13 December 2000, Caribbean Territories (Criminal Law) Order 2000 decriminalised consensual same-sex acts in private for two people over the age of 18. The order does not apply to acts with more than two parties, or in public lavatories.
  • Homosexual activity becomes legal.
    On 13 December 2000, Caribbean Territories (Criminal Law) Order 2000 decriminalised consensual same-sex acts in private for two people over the age of 18. The order does not apply to acts with more than two parties, or in public lavatories.
  • (date unknown)
    Serving openly in military becomes legal.
    Norway has been allowing all genders to serve openly in the miliary since 2001
  • January 1
    Homosexual activity becomes legal.
    The UK government decriminalised homosexual acts between two consenting adults via Sections 3(1) and 3(7) of the Caribbean Territories (Criminal Law) Order, 2000.
  • (date unknown)
    Homosexual activity becomes legal.
    Before decriminalisation, enforcement of the law was reportedly rare and in 2001 Romania fully decriminalised homosexuality.
  • January 1
    Same-sex adoption becomes single only.
  • (date unknown)
    Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    Equal age of consent is 16.
  • Blood donations by MSMs becomes banned (indefinite deferral).
    Gay, lesbian, bisexual, and other "high risk HIV" groups are banned from donating blood in Taiwan.
  • Blood donations by MSMs becomes legal.
    Italy uses a risk-based donor selection system that treats MSM and heterosexual partners equally.
  • December 31
    Blood donations by MSMs becomes ambiguous.
    Italy legalizes blood donations as Health Minister lifts blood ban. However, Italy still denies men who engaged in "risky behaviors"
  • December 27
    Homosexual activity becomes illegal (death penalty as punishment).
    The Sharia Penal Code Law 2000 took effect in Jigawa on December 27th, 2000. Within the Penal Code, consensual same-sex sexual activity is punished with caning of one hundred lashes if unmarried, and the offender shall also be liable to imprisonment for the term of one year. If married, they shall be punished with stoning to death (rajm).
  • December 21
    Censorship of LGBT issues becomes no censorship.
    In La Rioja, there are no laws restricting the discussion or promotion of LGBTQ+ topics since the repeal of articles criminalising expressions of gender identity or homosexuality in 2000. The law still criminalises engagement of "immoral acts" to minors under the header "Scandalous prostitution and homosexuality" but despite this, the law itself makes no direct mention of homosexuality.
  • December 10
    Homosexual activity becomes illegal (death penalty as punishment).
    The Borno State law on Prostitution, Homosexuality, Brothels and Other Sexual Immoralities (2000) punishes homosexuality by the death. Article 7 states "Any person who engages in sexual intercourse with another person of the same gender shall upon conviction be punished with death."
  • December 2
    LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2000, sexual orientation was added as a protected characteristic from housing discrimination in Romania. However, gender identity remains unprotected.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    Transgenders have yet to receive discrimination protections in employment. Something Ilga Europe advices Romania to do
  • December 1
    Homosexual activity becomes illegal (death penalty as punishment).
    The Penal Code (Amendment) Law 2000 took effect in Kebbi on December 1st, 2000. Within the Penal Code, consensual same-sex sexual activity is punished with stoning to death (rajm).
  • November 30
    Homosexual activity becomes legal.
    Legal as a British Overseas Territory.
  • Homosexual activity becomes legal.
    As part of the United Kingdom, homosexuality is legal.
  • (deleted region)
    Homosexual activity becomes legal.
    Legal in the UK extending to Liverpool.
  • (deleted region)
    Homosexual activity becomes legal.
    Legal since 2000
  • (deleted region)
    Homosexual activity becomes legal.
    On November 30, 2000 a bill was signed to make the ages of consent equitable, regardless of gender. The law came into effect on August 1, 2001. The age of consent for men who have sex with men was reduced from 18 to 16, on par with different sex individuals.
  • (deleted region)
    Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    On November 30, 2000 a bill was signed to make the ages of consent equitable, regardless of gender. The law came into effect on August 1, 2001. The age of consent for men who have sex with men was reduced from 18 to 16, on par with different sex individuals.
  • (deleted region)
    Homosexual activity becomes legal.
    As in the United Kingdom, the law is the same
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    Same as in England.
  • Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    The age of consent is 16 (or 18 for those in a position of authority) for all couples.
  • Homosexual activity becomes legal.
    The Sexual Offences (Amendment) Act 2000 repealed all criminal provisions regarding homosexuality; setting an equal age of consent for sexual activity between men.
  • November 26
    Homosexual activity becomes illegal (death penalty as punishment).
    The Sharia Penal Code Law 2000 took effect in Kano on November 26th, 2000. Within the Penal Code, consensual same-sex sexual activity is punished with caning of one hundred lashes if unmarried, and offenders shall also be liable to imprisonment for the term of one year. If married or have been previously married they shall be punished with stoning to death (rajm).
  • October 26
    LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2000, Distrito Federal passed Law 2615 which prohibited discrimination in housing on the basis of sexual orientation. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2019.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    In 2000, Distrito Federal passed Law 2615 which prohibited discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation in employment, housing and goods and services. However, there were no protections in education or healthcare. Additionally, gender identity remained unprotected in all areas.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2000, Distrito Federal passed Law 2615 which prohibited discrimination in employment on the basis of sexual orientation. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2019.
  • October 1
    Same-sex adoption becomes legal.
    Any person or couple may adopt a child regardless of orientation pursuant Connecticut Public Act Number 00-228.
  • September 26
    LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    In the Lithuania criminal code in Article 170, sexual orientation is among the things that are explicitly banned from being discriminated against. Gender identity is not one of those things.
  • September 12
    LGBT housing discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
    In 2000, Victoria passed an amendment to its Equal Opportunity Act to add sexual orientation and gender identity as protected characteristics from housing discrimination. However, some religious exemptions apply.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation and gender identity.
    In 2000, Victoria passed an amendment to its Equal Opportunity Act to add sexual orientation and gender identity as protected characteristics from employment discrimination. Previously, only sexual orientation was protected under federal law. However, some religious exemptions apply.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal.
    In 2000, Victoria passed an amendment to its Equal Opportunity Act to add sexual orientation and gender identity as protected characteristics from discrimination. Previously, only sexual orientation was protected from employment discrimination under federal law. However, some religious exemptions apply.
  • Same-sex adoption becomes legal.
    Adoption by same-sex couples was legalised on 12 September 2000.
  • September 1
    Homosexual activity becomes legal.
    In 2000 a new criminal code was introduced, repealing article 121 against homosexuality.
  • August 16
    Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    Same-sex marriage is outlawed by the Marriage Amendment Act 2000. In 2007, the law was amended to state that "no person shall be permitted to marry another person who is of the same gender as him or herself".
  • July 29
    Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires surgery.
    Until 2016, Prince Edward Island required proof of surgery for legal gender recognition.
  • July 26
    LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    The old penal code stipulated that a person could not be fired, discriminated against or harassed in a work environment because of their sexual orientation in the General Law of Youth in 2000. When revising the penal code, a small change was made in the penal code. A small section was eliminated and summarized to remove the protection for LGBT people in the Dominican Republic. The new code was approved on June 30th.
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    No law offers protection based on "sexual orientation" and "gender identity" in broad terms. At least three laws explicitly mention “sexual orientation” and one law "gender identity", as grounds for protection. The scope of these laws is limited to specific populations: youth (aged 14-25) and people living with HIV. Article 2 of the General Law on Youth (Law No. 49) (2000), prohibits discrimination based on "sexual orientation". Article 2 of the Law on HIV/Aids (Law No. 135) (2011) protects people living with HIV from discrimination based on "sexual orientation" and "gender identity". Article 11 on "Equality before the Law" of Law No. 76-02, which establishes the Criminal Procedure Code of the Dominican Republic, states: "All persons are equal before the law and must be treated according to the same rules. Judges and the public ministry must take into account the particular conditions of the persons and the case, but they cannot base their decisions on nationality, gender, race, creed or religion, political ideas, sexual orientation, economic or social position or any other condition with discriminatory implications. In July 2024, the Chamber of Deputies approved in its first reading a Bill on a new Penal Code of the Dominican Republic (2024), after the Senate also voted in its favour in a second reading. However, Article 185 does not include “sexual orientation” from the protected characteristics against discrimination list.
  • July 24
    LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Sexual orientation is protected from hate crimes since 2000. Sexual orientation is explicitly covered in the law as a protected characteristic from all forms of discrimination since 2011. Gender Identity on the other hand, is not mentioned explicitly but is implied and has received some protections.
  • July 3
    Same-sex adoption becomes legal.
    In 2000, Navarre was the first autonomous community of Spain to allow adoption by unmarried couples "with the same rights and obligations as couples joined in marriage”
  • July 1
    Same-sex marriage becomes civil unions (limited rights).
    After a ruling in 1999 by the Vermont Supreme Court that stipulated that same-sex couples must be treated differently to married different-sex couples, the Vermont legislature adopted civil unions as a recognition with limited rights compared to married couples. It came into effect in 2000.
  • June 9
    Same-sex adoption becomes single only.
    LGBTIQ+ couples are not able to adopt children, however singles can.
  • Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    The Marriage and Family Law defines marriage as between a man and a woman.
  • May 28
    Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    In 2000, Colorado passed a statute restricting marriage to different-sex couples, effectively banning same-sex marriage. In 2006, an amendment was passed in Colorado’s constitution not only codifying the ban but also denying any other family status to same-sex couples.
  • May 15
    LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    In 2000, Rio de Janeiro passed Law 3406 which provided protections from discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation in all areas except for housing. However, gender identity remained unprotected.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    In 2000, Rio de Janeiro passed Law 3406 which prohibits discrimination in employment on the basis of sexual orientation. However, gender identity remained unprotected until 2019.
  • May 4
    Homosexual activity becomes illegal (death penalty as punishment).
    The Penal Code (Amendment) Law 2000 took effect in Niger on May 4th, 2000. Unlike most other Nigerian states, Niger enacted the Penal Code (Amendment) Law (2000) to reform its existing Penal Code, instead of adopting a whole new Sharia Penal Code. The amendment added Section 68A. Under this, Islamic criminal law is applied as found in the basic and classical sources: the Qur’an, the Hadith, and the fiqh, thereby punishing consensual same-sex sexual acts between adults (liwat) with death by stoning.
  • April 12
    Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires surgery.
    Western Australia's Gender Reassignment Act (2000) requires applicants to have: 1. Undergone gender-affirming surgery (Article 15.b.i), 2. Adopted "the lifestyle" and have "the gender characteristics of a person of the gender to which the person has been reassigned" (Article 15.b.ii), 3. That they have received "proper counselling" in relation to their gender identity (Article 15.b.iii). This also applied to Christmas Island until 2011 when the surgery requirement was removed.
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires surgery.
    Western Australia's Gender Reassignment Act (2000) requires applicants to have: 1. Undergone gender-affirming surgery (Article 15.b.i), 2. Adopted "the lifestyle" and have "the gender characteristics of a person of the gender to which the person has been reassigned" (Article 15.b.ii), 3. That they have received "proper counselling" in relation to their gender identity (Article 15.b.iii).
  • Right to change legal gender becomes legal, but requires surgery.
    Cocos is under the jurisdiction of Western Australia whose Gender Reassignment Act (2000) requires applicants to have: 1. Undergone gender-affirming surgery (Article 15.b.i), 2. Adopted "the lifestyle" and have "the gender characteristics of a person of the gender to which the person has been reassigned" (Article 15.b.ii), 3. That they have received "proper counselling" in relation to their gender identity (Article 15.b.iii). However, in 2011, the High Court of Australia held in AB and AH v. Western Australia (2011) that the surgical procedure was no longer a requirement, but some sort of physical alteration must have taken place. In this instance, HRT can be seen to fulfil this requirement. If the Board is satisfied, they will issue a "recognition certificate" that enables the applicant to request a gender marker change on the birth certificate.
  • March 28
    LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    In 2000, Cordoba passed Law No. 8835 which prohibited discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation in healthcare. However, gender identity remains unprotected. In 2008, Cordoba amended its misdemeanours law by prohibiting incitement of hatred on the basis of sexual orientation. Since 2009, LGBTIQ+ people are protected in the military code of Argentina. In 2021, gender identity became a protected characteristic from discrimination in employment in Cordoba under federal Argentine law, but sexual orientation remains unprotected. Outside of those contexts, there are no discrimination protections provided to LGBTIQ+ people in Cordoba.
  • March 20
    Censorship of LGBT issues becomes varies by region.
    In the state of México, there are no laws restricting the discussion or promotion of LGBTQ+ topics on the state level since the removal of homosexuality as a "corrupt habit" in its law against corruption of minors in 2000. However, several municipalities still use sanctions against “morality and good customs” to persecute LGBTIQ+ identity in practice.
  • March 11
    Same-sex marriage becomes banned.
    In 2000, West Virginia passed a statute restricting marriage to different-sex couples, effectively banning same-sex marriage. Attempts to codify the ban in the state constitution were defeated.
  • February 15
    Equal age of consent becomes equal.
    According to article 140 and 141 of the Georgian Penal Code, the age of consent for both homosexual and heterosexual sex is 16.
  • Homosexual activity becomes legal.
    Homosexuality has been legal for all genders in Georgia since 2000.
  • January 27
    Homosexual activity becomes illegal (death penalty as punishment).
    The Sharia Penal Code Law 2000 took effect in Zamfara on January 27th, 2000. Within the Penal Code, consensual same-sex sexual activity is punished with "caning of one hundred lashes if unmarried, and the offender shall also be liable to imprisonment for the term of one year." If married they shall be punished with stoning to death (rajm).
  • Homosexual activity becomes varies by region.
    Male and female homosexuality is punishable by 14 years in prison by the Federal Criminal Code in all Southern States under Section 214. The Section reads "Any person who – (a) has carnal knowledge of any person against the order of nature; or (c) permits a male person to have carnal knowledge of him or her against the order of nature; is guilty of a felony, and is liable to imprisonment for fourteen years." In Northern Nigeria, the laws and punishments regarding homosexuality are different. Section 284 of the Penal Code (Northern States) Federal Provisions Act, which applies to all states in Northern Nigeria, states that "Whoever has carnal intercourse against the order of nature with any man, woman or animal shall be punished with imprisonment for a term which may extend to fourteen years and shall also be liable to fine" In some states in Northern Nigeria, same-sex couples can be punished with the death penalty, because of the implementation of Shari'a Law. The Shari'a criminal laws apply to those who voluntarily consent to the jurisdiction of the Shari'a courts and to all Muslims. The first state of Nigeria to implement Shari'a law was Zamfara on January 27th, 2000.
  • January 21
    (deleted region)
    Serving openly in military becomes legal.
    The British military actively recruits gay men and lesbians, all three services have deployed recruiting teams to gay pride events, and punishes any instance of intolerance or bullying. The Royal Navy advertises for recruits in gay magazines and has allowed gay sailors to hold civil partnership ceremonies on board ships and, since 2006, to march in full naval uniform at a gay pride marches. British Army and Royal Air Force personnel could march but had to wear civilian clothes until 2008, now all military personnel are permitted to attend Gay Pride marches in uniform.
  • January 12
    Serving openly in military becomes legal.
    Guernsey relies on British military for its defence so therefore it’s the same as the UK
  • Serving openly in military becomes legal.
    The island's militia, the Jersey Field Squadron, is part of the Royal Monmouthshire Royal Engineers reserve unit of the British Army and follows the rules set by the UK Ministry of Defence.
  • (deleted region)
    Serving openly in military becomes legal.
    Regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation one may serve in the military within the UK
  • (deleted region)
    Serving openly in military becomes legal.
    The Ministry of Defence were forced to change their stance on when the European Court of Human Rights ruled in September 1999 that the then current ban on gays in the military was unlawful.
  • (deleted region)
    Serving openly in military becomes legal.
    Military service is allowed regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.
  • (deleted region)
    Serving openly in military becomes legal.
    LGBT+ personnel have the same terms and conditions as everyone else; this includes maternity benefits and pension arrangements for same-sex spouses or civil partners. The Army welcomes transgender personnel and all who apply to join the Army must meet the same mental and physical entry standard as any other candidate.
  • Serving openly in military becomes legal.
    As a British Overseas Territory, Gibraltar is defended by the United Kingdom's armed forces.
  • Serving openly in military becomes legal.
    Serving openly in the military is legal as of the 2000's.
  • Serving openly in military becomes legal.
    The Ministry of Defence were forced to change their stance on when the European Court of Human Rights ruled in September 1999 that the then current ban on gays in the military was unlawful.
  • (date unknown)
    Blood donations by MSMs becomes banned (indefinite deferral).
    In 2000, Chile introduced a ban on blood donations from men who have sex with men.
  • Gender-affirming care becomes legal.
    Alberta covers the following procedures: -Phalloplasty -Metoidioplasty -Vaginoplasty -Hysterectomy and ovary removal -Breast augmentation and mastectomy (patient must get pre-approval) -Voice therapy Hormones are covered under the Alberta Drug Benefit List. To be eligible, patients must be diagnosed with gender dysphoria by two physicians licensed in Alberta. Minors were also eligible until 2024.
  • Gender-affirming care becomes legal.
    British Columbia covers the following procedures: -Chest construction (including reduction) -Orchiectomy -Hysterectomy with bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy -Vaginoplasty -Vulvoplasty -Clitoral release -Metoidioplasty -Phalloplasty -Travel Assistance Program for provincial travel assistance for services not available in own community -Expenses for out-of-province surgical aftercare if medically required -Psychiatry services -Vocal feminization program (via free Changing Keys program) Breast augmentations can be covered on a case-by-case basis and hormones are generally covered under Pharmacare plans. Binders, packers and breast forms can be covered under PWD with a prescription/letter from a MD or NP. Patients must have completed a surgical readiness assessment with a qualified assessor to be approved for coverage.
  • Gender-affirming care becomes legal.
    Newfoundland and Labrador cover the following procedures: -Breast augmentation (when no breast development for 18 months of hormone therapy) -Mastectomy with chest masculinization (excluding implants and liposuction) -Hysterectomy -Orchiectomy -Salpingo-oophorectomy -Vaginoplasty (includes orchiectomy, penectomy, labiaplasty, -clitoroplasty; with or without construction of vaginal cavity) Metoidioplasty -Phalloplasty (includes urethroplasty, scrotoplasty, -vaginectomy, and insertion of testicular and approved penile implants) -Voice therapy The following are partially covered or covered under certain conditions: -Insured out-of-province procedures not available in NFLD, at publicly funded facility, with prior approval -Travel to access out-of-province procedures (airfare, accommodation, meals and local transportation. Some restrictions may apply) -Hormone therapy may be covered through the Newfoundland and Labrador Prescription Drug Program. NLPDP covers eligible prescription medications for those who are an eligible Medical Care Plan (MCP) beneficiary. -If the prescription is on the special authorization listing, a physician would have to apply for the product through the NLPDP special authorization process. Patients do not required a gender dysphoria diagnosis to be covered. As of November 2019, any healthcare provider meeting WPATH credential can assess surgical readiness.
  • Gender-affirming care becomes legal.
    Prince Edward Island covers the following procedures: -Hysterectomy -Mastectomy with chest masculinization -Breast augmentation -Metoidioplasty -Clitoral release -Erectile/testicular implant -Oophorectomy -Phalloplasty -Scrotoplasty -Vaginectomy -Clitoroplasty -Labiaplasty -Orchiectomy -Penectomy -Vaginoplasty Hormones are partially covered. Patients do not required a gender dysphoria diagnosis to get coverage. Any family doctor or nurse practitioner can prescribe hormones. To get coverage, patients must be referred by a healthcare provider and get pre-approval from Health PEI.
  • Gender-affirming care becomes legal.
    Nova Scotia covers the following procedures: -Hysterectomy -Oophorectomy (only available in NS) -Orchiectomy -Penectomy -Breast augmentation -Breast reduction -Chest masculinization/mastectomy (in NS or Montreal Centre) -Phalloplasty -Metoidplasty -Vaginoplasty (only available at Centre Metropolitain de Chirurgie in Montreal) Counselling and hormones are covered in the public system. An assessment by a healthcare professional with required competencies to assess/treat/refer patients with gender dysphoria is required for coverage.
  • Gender-affirming care becomes legal.
    Gender-affirming care falls under provincial jurisdiction. Currently no province or territory restricts it, however some provinces like Alberta have spoken about restricting or outright banning care for minors in the future.
  • Gender-affirming care becomes legal.
    New-Brunswick covers the following procedures: -Hormone therapy -Mastectomy with chest masculinization (for trans-masculine patients) -Vaginoplasty (including: penectomy, orchidectomy, construction of a vaginal cavity and the vulva) -Vaginectomy, hysterectomy, salpingo-oophorectomy -Mastectomy (with chest masculinization) -Metoidioplasty -Phalloplasty, erectile and testicular implants. To receive coverage, patients must be diagnosed with gender dysphoria and receive signed letters from one to three psychiatrists.
  • Gender-affirming care becomes legal.
    Ontario covers the following procedures: -Assessment for hormone therapy -Counselling -Augmentation mammoplasty or mastectomy -Private clinic stay and/or ministry-approved services outside Canada -Orchiectomy -Hysterectomy -Salpingo-oophorectomy -Vaginoplasty -Clitoroplasty -Clitoral release -Labiaplasty -Vaginectomy -Metoidioplasty -Phalloplasty -Testicular implants with scrotoplasty -Penile implant Hormones and hormone blockers are partially covered. To get coverage, patients must be referred by a qualified provider.
  • Gender-affirming care becomes legal.
    The following procedures are covered in Manitoba: -Chest masculinization -Hysterectomy and oophorectomy -Metoidioplasty -Orchiectomy -Penectomy -Vaginoplasty -Feminizing voice therapy -Laser hair removal Breast augmentation may be covered on a case-by-case basis while hormones may be covered on the Manitoba Pharmacare Program. A diagnosis of gender dysphoria and referral by medical and psychiatric experts is required for coverage.
  • Gender-affirming care becomes legal.
    Saskatchewan currently covers the following procedures: -Hysterectomy -Mastectomy -Oophorectomy -Metoidioplasty -Orchiectomy -Vaginoplasty (with or without vaginal canal) -Phalloplasty -Voice therapy Hormones are partially covered. Approval is required for coverage. Saskatchewan may cover up to 100% of the cost for out of province procedures.
  • Gender-affirming care becomes legal.
    Northwest Territories currently cover mastectomies and genital surgeries (vaginoplasty, phalloplasty, metoidioplasty and clitoral release). In some cases, they cover breast augmentation if a patient failed to respond to hormone therapy or if they have a congenital abnormality. To be admissible, patients have to be diagnosed with gender dysphoria. For genital surgery, they must have been on hormones for at least 12 continuous months.
  • Gender-affirming care becomes legal.
    Yukon currently covers most gender-affirming care a person could request. The list was vastly expanded in 2021, making Yukon the one that covers the most gender-affirming care among all provinces and territories. This includes: -Hormone therapy (medical practitioner must apply to benefits program on behalf of patient) -Vaginoplasty -Phalloplasty -Metoidioplasty -Penectomy -Hysterectomy -Salpingo-oophorectomy -Orchiectomy -Mastectomy -Chest contouring -Body contouring -Hair removal -Medical and travel costs -Facial feminization surgery ($30K-$50K) -Voice therapy -Vocal surgery -Mental wellness services (through All Genders Yukon Society) -Training for healthcare professionals (at no cost) to provide compassionate and culturally sensitive WPATH gender-inclusive care To receive this care, patients must be diagnosed with gender dysphoria and have a referral from a mental health provider.
  • Gender-affirming care becomes legal.
    The government of Nunavut is partnering with the Montreal GRS to provide gender reassignment surgeries. Most care requires assessments and referrals from specialists. Among the care covered is: -Mental health services -Chest surgery -Genital surgery (hysterectomy, vaginoplasty and phalloplasty) -Genital reconstruction Hormone therapy is partially covered and must be prescribed.
  • Gender-affirming care becomes legal.
    In Quebec, transition care is not restricted. There is no set age to access puberty blockers or hormones, but minors can consent to medical care by themselves starting at 14. In theory, this means they could access care without their parents' knowledge or consent, but it is hard to access in practice due to wait times and the lack of clinics providing this care. For surgery, only mastectomies can be done as a minor (starting at 16). The state currently covers mastectomies, phalloplasties, vaginoplasties and metaoidioplasties done at the Montreal GRS exclusively.
  • LGBT employment discrimination becomes sexual orientation only.
    Sexual orientation protections only.
  • Blood donations by MSMs becomes banned (1-year deferral).
    Gay and bisexual men could donate blood in Uruguay, provided they hadn't had sex for 12 months.
  • Same-sex adoption becomes illegal.
    Miss. Code § 93-17-3(5) restricts adoptions making it illegal for a same-sex couple to adopt a child. Additionally, statute permits sexual orientation to be utilized as an adverse consideration in custody disputes.
  • Same-sex adoption becomes illegal.
    Utah Code Ann. § 78B-6-117(3): Adoption may not be permitted to individuals who are not entered into a legal marriage in a cohabitation situation. This applies to foster parenting as well (§ 62A-4a-602). Second parent adoption is outlawed as well for same-sex couples.(§ 62A-4a-60)
  • LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    While anti-discrimination laws may apply to transgender individuals in Romania, only sexual orientation is stated in their constitution. "Anti-discrimination legislation sanctions ‘any difference, exclusion, restriction or preference based on race, nationality, ethnic origin, language, religion, social status, beliefs, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, chronic disease, HIV positive status, belonging to a disadvantaged group or any other criterion, aiming to or resulting in a restriction or prevention of the equal recognition, use or exercise of human rights and fundamental freedoms in the political, economic, social and cultural field or in any other fields of public life.'"
  • Serving openly in military becomes legal.
    Article 3 (1) of the Basic Law of the Federal Republic of Germany and Article 14 of the European Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms protect against unequal treatment on grounds of sexual orientation.
  • January 1
    Serving openly in military becomes legal.
    Military protection is responsibility of the United Kingdom, hence their law applies.
  • (date unknown)
    LGBT discrimination becomes illegal in some contexts.
    Ireland's anti-discrimination law contains religious exceptions (Section 37.1) so full discriminations are not yet realised.
  • January 1
    Same-sex marriage becomes other type of partnership.
    Statutory Cohabitation grants specific rights to cohabiting persons. Although not specifically intended for LGBT couples it was open for same sex couples.
  • (date unknown)
    Blood donations by MSMs becomes banned (1-year deferral).
    In 2000, Australia reduced the deferral period for blood donations from MSMs from 5 years to 1 year.