It's against the law for an employer to discriminate against their sexual or gender orientation.

discrimination illegal since 2010

Arkansas rolled out its gender policy quietly in 2010. "Our official policy is to allow a licensee to change their gender as requested, no questions asked, no documentation required." -former Assistant Commissioner of Operations and Administration Mike Munns. Arkansas residents were thus able to change their marker on their driver's license (including to an X) since 2010, but this has only started being known since 2018.

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.

Some protection for sexual orientation under The Judicial Code of Conduct 2010.

Dominican Republic law does not recognise any marriage or partnership between same sex couples. In 2010 the Constitution was amended to affirm that "The State shall promote and protect the family organization based on the institution of marriage between a man and a woman" (Article 55). In 2018 the IACHR ruled that the American Convention on Human Rights requires Dominican Republic to legalise same-sex marriage.

Addressed by the Equal Opportunity Act 2010

Civil Union was a recognized status

In 2010, New Hampshire was the fifth state to legalize gay marriage. The bill was signed into law on June 3, 2009.

In June 2019, the High Court of Botswana ruled that "sex", as defined in Section 3 of the Botswana Constitution, should be "generously and purposively interpreted" to include "sexual orientation". The Employment Act (2010) prohibits employers from terminating contracts of employment on the basis of "sexual orientation". There are no laws that protect gender identity from discrimination

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.

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.

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.

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.

There is no criteria against MSM donating blood in North Macedonia.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

There remains no explicit protection of transgender people under the Act, though the Alberta Human Rights Commission reads in transgender rights under "gender".

Adoption legal for all regardless of marriage status, sexual orientation or gender identity

In 2009, Uruguay became the first Latin American country to allow same-sex couples to adopt children.

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.

Under federal law.

Under federal law.

Under federal law

Under federal law.

Under federal law.

Under federal law.

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.

In 2009, a law was passed in Wisconsin providing for a domestic partnership for same-sex couples with limited rights compared to married couples.

Until 2013, same-sex marriage was banned in Yucatan, as Article 94 of the state constitution states that only heterosexual couples can legally marry.

In the Delhi High Court case of Naz Foundation v. Govt. of NCT of Delhi, a two-judge Division Bench decriminalized homosexuality by striking down the provisions of Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code that deemed sexual acts between consenting adults as criminal.

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.

Joint adoption not legal at this time, only adoption of one partners existing children.

LGBT Housing discrimination are illegal

All discrimination (about the LGBT) are banned in Czech Republic

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.

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.

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.

Only able to adopt child of the other partner

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.

The Riksdag passed a gender-neutral marriage bill in 2009, making Sweden the seventh country in the world to legalize same-sex marriage.

After a court ruling the Civil Status Registry is required to allow people with a diagnosis of gender dysphoria to change their legal gender.

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.

Up to 2 years imprisonment and/or up to 50,000 frank fine

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

In 2009, Iowa became the third state to legalize same-sex marriage.

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.

At the time, gay couples were allowed to have civil unions and thus was able to apply as a couple.

Within the penal code, discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation (and discrimination in general) is treated as an aggravating circumstances.

Domestic partnership is recognized by the state as a form of same-sex union

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.

Following a military reform law by the Argentine parliament, LGB people can serve, but transgenders are not included.

Argentina recognizes international convention on human rights. LGBT individuals are explicitly protected in the military code but is not explicitly included in the general discrimination protection code.

In 2009, Michoacan added gender identity as a protected characteristic in its anti-discrimination law.

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.

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.

The 2008 " RECORDING OF MARRIAGE ACT" (taking effect the next year) specifically refers to a "male" and a "female" partner.

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.

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

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.

In 2009, Laos legalized sterilization, which de facto meant legalizing sex reassignment surgery, however, medical records regarding transsexualism had to be obtained abroad. Additionally Laos does not provide for gender affirming surgery leaving trans Laotians to often go to Thailand for such care. Hormones however are available.

The so called Civil Code (Law no. 287/2009) places a statutory ban on same-sex marriage in Romania.

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.

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.

Requires a gender recognition document. Additionally, you must have the consent of your married parnter

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.

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.

No one lives there. Norwegian law however legalizes gay marriage

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.

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.

Under the Article 295 of the North Korean Criminal Law, the age of consent is 15 irrespectively of gender of parties.

Rejecting job applications due to sexual orientation, race, sex and others is illegal.

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.

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.)

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."

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.

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.

Ethiopia's federal law places a statutory ban on same-sex marriage.

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.

Cambodia banned adoption by gay and lesbian foreigners. It is unclear if gay and lesbian Cambodians could adopt.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Banned by Proposition 8 being passed within the state’s constitution.

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.

In 2008, Connecticut became the first US state to legalize same-sex marriage, following Massachusetts in 2004.

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.

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.

The Code of Offenses of the Province of Santiago del Estero (2008) prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation.

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.

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.

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.

From 2008 onwards, gender identity began to be included in anti-discrimination laws in different cases in Portugal.

Aricle 5 of the 2008 Labour Law prohibits employment discrimination. Sexual orientation is one of explicitly mentioned grounds.

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.

Montenegro passed Law No. 01-382/13 in 2008 which provides for legal gender recognition. However, surgery is required.

The age of consent was set equally at 18 with the decriminilization of homosexuality in 2008.

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.

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.

Same-sex marriage in California was briefly legal in 2008, before being overturned five months later.

Gender-affirming care is legal and provided for since 2008 by the government per Ministry of Public Health Resolution No. 126.

New Zealand requires evidence of medical treatment and to go to the family court to change one's legal gender marker.

In this context, "foreign" is defined as same-sex marriages legally performed in other jurisdictions but heretofore unrecognized by New York State.

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.

Article 315 of the Criminal Code (2008) bans employment discrimination based on sexual option.

Legal measures against LGBT discrimination exist in the workplace (2008) and in health (2014).

The age of consent in for anal sex in Canada is 18, whereas the age of consent for acts of sex is 16.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Nicaraguan law does not specify a homosexual age of consent and a heterosexual one.

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.

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.

The "KERALA REGISTRATION OF MARRIAGES (COMMON) RULES, 2008" explicitly refers to marriage as between a "husband" and "wife".

The terminology for same sex union used is domestic partnership. Same-sex marriage from other states are also recognized in oregon.

The "Compulsory Registration of Marriages Rules, 2008" defines marriage as "between a male and female".

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.

Law B-3055, which establishes the innate right of persons to a sexual orientation, prohibits discrimination.

In 2008, New Brunswick revised their adoption regulations to allow LGB couples to adopt.

illegal since 2008

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

Under the Equal Opportunities Act, Sexual orientation discrimination is prohibited in housing.

Discrimination based on sexual orientation is prohibited by the following legal provisions: -The Freedom of Information (General) Regulations (2008) -Public Lands Law (2017)

Housing Discrimination laws completely protect sexual orientation and gender identity.

Article 6(2) of Law No. 7 (2008) prohibits discrimination based on "sexual orientation" in employment.

There are no restrictions for blood donations by MSMs.

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.

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.

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.

Article 11(2) of the Constitution of Ecuador (2008) prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

Same-sex marriage is banned in Tajikistan

Discrimination of LGBTQ+ is currently illegal and can result in being fined or/and imprisonment.

As of 2008 (no specific date, N/D), rejecting employment due to sexual orientation or/and gender identity is currently illegal.

Since 2008, transgender people in Georgia can change documents and personal names to reflect their preferred gender after having undergone sex reassignment surgery.

Some protections from harassment based on sexual orientation in schools.

LGBT allowed to serve openly in the military since 2008.

State law provides for protections against employment discrimination in regards to both sexual orientation and gender identification.

There are limited legal provisions that protect homosexual people. 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 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").

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".

Article 2 of the Equal Opportunities Act 2008, prohibits discrimination in employment and other activities on many grounds, including sexual orientation.

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.

Adoption Law 77/2007 Article 13.

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.

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.

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.

The age of consent in South Africa is equal for homosexual sex and heterosexual sex.

In Guernsey, you can legally change your gender but you need to acquire a UK GRC which requires a medical diagnosis

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.

Homosexuality within Chinandega is legal

According to Nicaraguan laws.

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.

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).

The Constitution of Montenegro prohibits discrimination on any ground. However, it does not explicitly mention sexual orientation or gender identity.

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".

Only banned in employment and housing

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.

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.

According to Government Regulation Number 54 of 2007 concerning the Implementation of Child Adoption, Article 16 stipulates as folllows: (1) Adoption of children by single parents can only be carried out by Indonesian citizens after obtaining permission from the Minister. The granting of permits as intended in paragraph (1) can be delegated to the head of a social agency in the province. Under this technicality, a LGBT prospective parent may be able to adopt while single, no known case has been documented of minister approval.

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.

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.

Transgender people in Belgium are required to undergo gender reassignment surgery in order to change their gender on state documents.

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.

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.

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.

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.

The San Juan Province Code of Offenses (Law 941-R) prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation.

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.

South Australia's Statutes Amendment (Domestic Partners) Act Proclamation of 2007 permitted civil unions between same-sex people with limited rights.

In 2007, the Iowa legislature amended the state’s discrimination law on housing to include protections for 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.

The 2007 labor law protects against discrimination on employment on grounds of sexual orientation

The Sint Maarten penal code (Article 2:61) makes discrimination illegal if against a hetero- or homosexual orientation.

The 2007 Family Code of Sonora defines a marriage as between a man and a woman, effectively banning same-sex marriage.

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.

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.

The Northern Mariana Islands provide for legal gender recognition but require proof of surgery for it to be granted since 2007.

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.

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.

Since 2007, Lithuania has allowed trans people to change their legal gender but until 2022, this required surgery and a court order.

Under the registered partnership act same sex couples are not able to adopt their partner’s child.

The Military penal law No. 19 2007 prohibits its men from engaging Homosexual acts.

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.

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.

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).

The family code of 2007 explicitly and repeatedly refers to marriage as between a man and a woman.

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.

In 2007, the Iowa legislature added sexual orientation and gender identity to the state’s discrimination law.

State law provides for protections against employment discrimination in regards to both sexual orientation and gender identification.

State law provides for protections against employment discrimination in regards to both sexual orientation and gender identification.

State law provides for protections against employment discrimination in regards to both sexual orientation and gender identification.

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."

Individuals who have engaged in anal sex (regardless of gender) have a 6 months deferral.

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.

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).

Articles 4, 5 and 108 of the Labour Law 23/2007

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.

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.

This act makes discrimination illegal in most contexts. However it failed to address hate crime law

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.

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.

Employment discrimination is illegal

Article 454 to 457 of the Luxembourgian Penal code prohibits discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender.

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.

only banned on sexual orientation

The labour law was amended to protect LGBTQ+ population in some aspects of the labour market.

The Constitution of Serbia prohibits discrimination on any ground. However, it does not explicitly mention sexual orientation or gender identity.

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.

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.

The state election in 2006 amended the constitution to include clauses that defined marriage as being between a man and a woman.

Only single parent adoption is legal.

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.

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

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)."

In 2006, Amazonas passed Law No. 3079 which provided protections from discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity in housing.

Under the Chhattisgarh Compulsory Registration of Marriages Rules of 2006 marriage is defined as between "a male and a female".

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.

Employment discrimination was banned by the Employment Act 2006, and further enhanced by the Equality Act 2017.

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.

Section 1 of the General Act on Equal Treatment (Allgemeines Gleichbehandlungsgesetz, AGG) prohibits discrimination on housing.

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.

In 2007 a judge ruled that minors could consent to GAC but the scope and availability of the process was unclear.

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.

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.

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.

Deputies in Jerseys State Assembly voted to equalize the age of consent for homosexual sex to heterosexual sex

Georgia requires surgery for legal gender recognition. A court order is also required to change your birth certificate.

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.

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.

Legal since 2006

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.

Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTQIA+ topics in North Ossetia-Alania.

Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTQIA+ topics in Kabardino-Balkar.

Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTQIA+ topics in Karachayevo.

Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTQIA+ topics in Adyegya.

Until 2012, there was no known law censoring LGBTQIA+ topics in Krasnodarskiy.

Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTQIA+ topics in Stavropol.

Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTQIA+ topics in Dagestan.

Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTQIA+ topics in Kalmykiya.

Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTQIA+ topics in Rostov.

Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTQIA+ topics in Ingushetia.

Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTQIA+ topics in Ulyanovsk.

Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTQIA+ topics in Chuvash.

Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTQIA+ topics in Mariy El.

Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTQIA+ topics in Tatarstan.

Until 2012, there was no known law censoring LGBTQIA+ topics in Samara.

Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTQIA+ topics in Mordovia.

Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTQIA+ topics in Penza.

Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTQIA+ topics in Saratov.

Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTQIA+ topics in Tambov.

Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTQIA+ topics in Pskov.

Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTQIA+ topics in Smolensk.

Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTQIA+ topics in Tver.

Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTQIA+ topics in Yaroslavskaya.

Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTQIA+ topics in Volodga.

Before March 2012's censorship, no laws preventing the free discussion of LGBT issues existed in St Peterburg.

Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Vladimir.

Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Tula.

Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Orlovskaya.

Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Moscow City.

Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Voronezh.

Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Volgograd.

Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Udmurt.

Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Nenets.

Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Komi.

Until 2012, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Bashkortostan.

Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Perm.

Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Sverlodsk.

Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Yamalo Nenets.

Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Khanty Mansiyskiy.

Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Tyumenskaya.

Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Tomsk.

Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Altay Kray.

Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Altay.

Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Khakasiya.

Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Krasnoyarskiy.

Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Tyva.

Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Buratiya.

Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Zabaykalskij.

Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Sakha.

Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Sakhalin.

Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Yevrey.

Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Primorskiy.

Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Khabarovskiy.

Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Kamchatskaya.

Until 2013, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Chukotskiy.

Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in Kareliya.

Until Russia's federal ban in 2013, there were no known laws censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in the Orenburg Oblast.

Until Russia's federal ban in 2013, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in the Omsk Oblast.

Until 2012, there were no known laws censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in the Novosibirsk Oblast.

Until Russia's federal ban in 2013, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in the Novgorod Oblast.

Until Russia's federal ban in 2013, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in the Nizhnegorod Oblast.

Until Russia's federal ban in 2013, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in the Murmansk Oblast.

Until 2012, there were no known laws censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in the Magadan Oblast.

Until Russia's federal ban in 2013, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in the Lipetsk Oblast.

Until Russia's federal ban in 2013, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in the Leningrad Oblast.

Until Russia's federal ban in 2013, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in the Kursk Oblast.

Until Russia's federal ban in 2013, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in the Kurgan Oblast.

Until 2012, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in the Kostroma Oblast.

Until Russia's federal ban in 2013, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in the Kirov Oblast.

Until Russia's federal ban in 2013, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in the Kemerovo Oblast.

Until Russia's federal ban in 2013, there were no known laws censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in the Kaluga Oblast.

Until 2013, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in the Kaliningrad Oblast.

Until Russia's federal ban in 2013, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in the Ivanovo Oblast.

Until 2013, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in the Irkutsk Oblast.

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.

Until Russia's federal ban in 2013, there were no known laws censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in the Chelyabinsk Oblast.

Until Russia's federal ban in 2013, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in the Bryansk Oblast.

Until Russia's federal ban in 2013, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in the Belgorod Oblast.

Until Russia's federal ban in 2013, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in the Astrakhan Oblast.

Until 2011, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in the Arkhangelsk Oblast.

Until Russia's 2013 federal ban, there was no known law censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in the Amur Oblast.

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.

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.

Until Russia's federal ban in 2013, there were no known laws censoring LGBTIQ+ topics in the Moscow Oblast.

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.

Covers sexual orientation and gender identity in regard to employment, housing, and public accomodations

State law provides for protections against employment discrimination in regards to both sexual orientation and gender identification.

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)."

The 2006 "Karnataka Marriage (Registration and Miscellaneous Provisions) Rules" refer explicitly to a "bride" and "bridegroom".

The "GUJARAT REGISTRATION OF MARRIAGES ACT, 2006" refers to marriage as between a bride and a bridegroom.

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."

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.

Joint and stepchild adoption are not legal, but there are no restrictions against single LGBT individuals.

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.

Age of consent law in New Mexico does not discriminate against non-heterosexual sex.

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+.

In 2006, Maryland provided legal gender recognition but required proof of surgery.

In 2006, Illinois provided for legal gender recognition but required surgery and full transition.

In 2006, Delaware provided for legal gender recognition but required surgery.

In 2006, Massachusetts required proof of surgery for legal gender recognition.

In 2006, Arizona provided for legal gender recognition but required proof of surgery. This requirement was removed in 2024.

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.

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.

Under federal law.

Under federal law.

Under federal law.

Article 131 of the Labour Code protects the category of sexual orientation from discrimination in employment since 2006.

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. The Data Protection Act (2022) protects "sexual orientation" as personal data and sensitive personal data.

Sexual Offences (Amendment) Act 2006 updated the 1992 Act to bring the age of consent for all into alignment.

No protections are afforded to LGBTQ people in housing.

Legal protection against discirmination 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.

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.

In 2006, West Virginia provided for legal gender recognition but required proof of surgery or a court order.

State law provides for protections against employment discrimination in regards to both sexual orientation and gender identification.

State law provides for protections against employment discrimination in regards to both sexual orientation and gender identification.

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.

A 2006 constitutional amendment defined marriage as the union of man and woman and the only type of partnership the state recognizes.

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.

With new Criminal Code from 2005 the edge of consent of 14 years became equal for everyone.

See articles 2, 46A (1) and 46B of the Employment Act 1995, amended by Act 4 of 2006

Adoption discrimination is illegal in England, this extends to Manchester.

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.

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).

State Law 3157 of December 27, 2005

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".

.

Section 110 of the Constitution of Latvia was amended in 2006, explicitly defining marriage as a union exclusively between a man and woman.

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.

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.

Civil partnership

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

In 2005, Connecticut required surgery as requisite for legal gender recognition.

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.

Homosexuality is not legal in Gambia.

Under Canadian law there is a bill named Civil Marriage Act that was passed in 2005. This is from the Canadian government.

The Civil Marriage Act was passed at a federal level, overriding provincial marriage law.

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.

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”.

Marriage in Uganda is defined as a union between a man and a woman constitutionally.

Included in equal marriage legislation

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

The 2005 constitution explicitly prohibits the marriage or union between two people of the same sex

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.

Unmarried "stable" couples could adopt and removed gendered language.

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.

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.

Requires diagnosis of gender dysphoria

Changing gender is legal.

Changing gender is legal.

Changing your gender is legal within Manchester.

As in the United Kingdom, the law is the same Surgery is not required

UK changes of gender are recognised. The Criminal Procedure and Evidence Ordinance 2014 states "the gender of an individual is his or her gender as registered at birth, unless the person possesses a gender recognition certificate issued under section 9 of the UK Gender Recognition Act 2004, in which case the person's gender is the acquired gender." This makes gender recognition legal if it occurred in the UK but not in the Falklands.

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.

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.

Aricle 18 of the 2005 Labour Law prohibits employment discrimination. Sexual orientation is one of explicitly mentioned grounds.

In 2005, civil unions with near equal rights were passed into law by the General Council of Andorra.

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.

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".

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.

Andorra's 2005 penal code prohibits discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation in employment.

Andorra's 2005 penal code prohibits discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation.

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.”

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.

In 2005, Pennsylvania provided for legal gender recognition but required proof of surgery.

South Carolina has no specific statutes addressing legal gender change, it is done through the courts, which require proof of permanent medical treatment.

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.

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).

5- 10 years in prison. Not enforced. Decriminalization pending. Since 2013 police officers have to take lgbt sensitivity training.

LGBTQ+ people have been permitted to serve in the Thai armed forces since 2005.

Law No. 2005-014 on Adoption states that "Full adoption" is only permitted to heterosexual spouses. (Article 33)

In 2005, North Carolina provided for legal gender recognition but required proof of surgery.

Maine provided legal gender recognition in 2005 but required surgery.

In 2005, Montana provided for legal gender recognition but required proof of surgery.

Age of Consent for sex is equal in the Falkland Islands.

Anti-discrimination laws in hate speech and violence

State law provides for protections against employment discrimination in regards to both sexual orientation and gender identification.

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.

The age of consent for homosexuals was made equal along with the legalization of homosexuality in 2005.

Homosexual activity has been legal in the Marshall Islands since 2005.

In 2005, Hong Kong’s High Court ruled that the unequal age of consent between hetero and homosexual sexual activities was unconstitutional.

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.

Gay men in Japan are banned from donating blood following one (1) year after male-male sexual contact. Japanese Red Cross opposses this practice.

Under French law, discrimination aimed toward an individual's sexual orientation or gender identity is banned in Martinique.

French law applies

Discrimination aimed toward an individual's sexual orientation or gender identity is banned in France.

Treats of administrative penalties to be applied to companies that practice discrimination based on sexual orientation

Same-sex marriage is legal.

In 2004, Malta provided for legal gender recognition but required proof of an irreversible sex change for such.

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.

There are no national protections against discrimination in housing for LGBT individuals; however, some Italian regions have introduced their own protections.

Since 2004, Toscana has banned discrimination in housing against LGBT people.

The Constitution of Armenia was amended in 2015 to define marriage in heterosexual terms only.

Queen's Bench Justice Donna Wilson Ruled It unconstitutional.

Constitutional amendment adopted by state wide vote in 2004. Passed with 62% of the vote. Text of amendment follows: § 15.11 Marriage Amendment Only a union between one man and one woman may be a marriage valid in or recognized by this state and its political subdivisions. This state and its political subdivisions shall not create or recognize a legal status for relationships of unmarried individuals that intends to approximate the design, qualities, significance or effect of marriage.

Proposal 2 passed in 2004 defines marriage as a union between a man and a woman.

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.

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.

State law provides for protections against employment discrimination in regards to both sexual orientation and gender identification.

Gay marriage became legal in Nova Scotia on September 24th, 2004.

The Law on Prohibition of Discrimination from 2004 prohibited discrimination in Housing on the basis of sexual orientation (Articles 2 and 4).

The Law on Prohibition of Discrimination from 2004 prohibited discrimination in Employment on the basis of sexual orientation (Articles 2 and 4).

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)).

The state passed a referendum question defining marriage to be a union between one man and one woman.

Manitoba legalized gay marriage on September 16th, 2004.

Article 2 of the Family Law of Mozambique defines marriage as a “free and notorious union between a man and a woman.”

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.

Between 2004 and 2021, same-sex sexual activity was illegal.

Offence of "unnatural" sex is considered a petty misdemeanor in article 213 & 214.

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.

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.

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.

In 2004, the Equality for Men and Women Act (2003) was passed in the government. Allowing for no discrimination against women or men

Only 22 Countries allow transgender service Bulgaria is not one of them.

Article 13 explicitly prohibits discriminations on the basis of sexual orientations

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.

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.

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.

In 2004, Massachusetts became the first US state to legalize same-sex marriage.

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.

In 2004, Aragon passed a bill stating: “stable unmarried couples may jointly adopt”

LGBT people are allowed to serve openly under new rules brought into place when Cyprus joined the European Union

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."

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.

Kosovo has an equal age of consent (16 years) for both heterosexual and homosexual sexual activity.

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.

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.

In 2004, Mexico City provided legal gender recognition but required surgery until 2015.

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.

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.

In Tuscany, Piedmont, Liguria, Marche, Umbria, Sicily, Emilia-Romagna and Campania discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity is banned.

Homosexual activity has been legal in Cape Verde since 2004.

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.

No official ‘x’ marking option on official documents, applications etc. for non binary individuals.

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.

In 2004, Finland provided for protections from discrimination in housing on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity.

LGBTQ+ people from Finland are protected from all types of discrimination.

Wyoming requires surgery as a requirement for legal gender recognition.

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.

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.

In 2004, Rhode Island provided for legal gender recognition but required proof of surgery.

In 2004, New Hampshire provided for legal gender recognition but required proof of surgery.

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.

illegal since 2004

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.

Equal at 16 years. Art 151 of the Lithuanian Criminal Code.

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.

There is limited protection based on sexual orientation under the Mediation Act 2004, and as “sensitive personal information” under the Data Protection Act, 2011.

A same-sex marriage bill was approved by the Chamber of Deputies on 18 June 2014, and went into effect in 2015.

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.

Discrimintion is illegal in all context

There are no adoption restrictions for single people. Also, no laws in place for same-sex couples.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

The infamous section 28 of the Local Government Act 1988 was repealed by section 122 of the Local Government Act 2003.

The infamous section 28 of the Local Government Act 1988 was repealed by section 122 of the Local Government Act 2003.

There are no laws censoring LGBTQ Topics in Liverpool

Previous law repealed by section 122 of the Local Government Act 2003.

In England, there are no laws restricting the discussion or promotion of LGBTQ+ topics. This extends to Manchester

The UK does not restrict the promotion of LGBTQ topics.

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.

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

Until 2018, surgery was required to change your legal gender in Brazil.

Requires a notarized affidavit from a surgeon outlining the surgical procedure(s). A court order may also be used as evidence.

There are some local discrimination protections for LGBT people. Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity and Expression (SOGIE) Equality Bill pending nationwide.

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".

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."

Legislative Decree 9 July 2003, n. 216 prohibits discrimination in the workplace on the basis of religion, personal beliefs, handicap, age and sexual orientation.

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.

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).

Article 3 of the 2003 Labour Law prohibited discrimination in employment but did not mention sexual orientation or gender identity.

Amendments to the Labor Law (1995) dated July 14, 2003 introduced sexual orientation as a basis for prohibiting discrimination.

In 2003 Discrimination protection was extended to Sexual orientation and Gender identity in the penal code. In 2004, an official anti-discrimination bill was passed that includes provisions for sexual orientations and gender identities. The law is actively enforced.

Until 2019, Baja California Sur defined a marriage as between a man and a woman, effectively banning same-sex marriage. Couples had to rely on amparos from the federal government to legally wed.

Only discrimination in workplace banned.

British Columbia became the second province in Canada behind Ontario to legalize gay marriage.

Open homosexuals still serve in the military.

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)."

State law provides for protections against employment discrimination in regards to both sexual orientation and gender identification.

People are protected from discrimination based upon both sexual orientation and gender identification.

Open homosexuals still serve in the military.

Mississippi law states anyone under 16 to 17 years old is unable to consent, this goes for everyone, though not stated clearly.

Though it does not explicitly say if LGBTQ parties are in the law, it remains equal for LGBTQ people.

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

The age of consent in New Jersey law is for all sexual activity.

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.

Age of consent laws are equitable regardless of sexual orientation or gender.

Age of consent laws are equitable, regardless of gender or orientation.

Age of consent laws are equitable regardless of gender or orientation.

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’.

Age of consent laws are equitable regardless of gender or sexual orientation.

Age of consent is equitable regardless of gender or orientation.

Age of consent laws are equitable regardless of gender or orientation.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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. Michigan has not yet repealed its sodomy ban.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

The SCOTUS ruling Lawrence v. Texas decriminalised gay sex nationwide. In 2019, Utah repealed its defunct sodomy provisions from its state constitution.

Idaho's law banning gay sex was overturned by SCOTUS's decision in Lawrence v. Texas (2003), and definitively repealed in 2022.

The U.S. Supreme Court's ruling in Lawrence v. Texas decriminalized gay sex nationwide. Alabama repealed its defunct sodomy ban in 2019.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 remains unprotected.

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.

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

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.

Since 1917, 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 only added during the 2011 reform of this article. 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.

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.

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.

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.

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."

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.

Homosexual activity is not illegal in Armenia.

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.

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.

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.

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).

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.

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.

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.

Under federal Hate Crimes

State Law 7309 of 10 January 2003

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.

Until 2017, Yukon required surgery for legal gender recognition.

Section 53 of the Belizean Penal Code criminalized sodomy until being striked down in 2016, coincidely with this illegality the age of consent was unequal.

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.

In Zhambyl oblysy, it is legal to change the legal gender after surgery

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.

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."

Sexual orientation was protected.

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

Aricle 6 of the 2002 Labour Law prohibits employment discrimination. Sexual orientation is one of explicitly mentioned grounds.

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.

The Section 53 of the Belize Criminal Code states that all kinds of sexual acts, except for the natural sex, are illegal. People found guilty are liable for a 10-year imprisonment. "Every person who has carnal intercourse against the order of nature with any person ... shall be liable to imprisonment for 10 years." Moreover, homosexual immigrants are prohibited an entry to the country.

Taiwan was the first country in the Asia-Pacific region to consider legalizing same-sex marriage but the legislation stalled in the legislature.

Belgium has full protections against anti-LGBTQIA+ discrimination, especially as a member of the European Union.