• the217
• LGBT
• International LGBT rights

Related Media

Related Venues

Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Resources »
Address: Illini Union, Room 323, 1401 West Green Street Urbana, IL 61801
Phone: (217) 244-8863
Show on map

Related Articles

• DOMA and the LGBT community
• Symbolism and the LGBT community
• Race and the LGBT community
• Becoming an LGBT ally

What stances do other countries take or have taken in relation to a wide range of LGBT issues? Perhaps viewing world opinions will help us to see which countries might be seen as more progressive in the eyes of LGBT communities.

Japan—Has no outright laws against homosexual behavior. It has some laws in place protecting LGBT individuals, including transgender individuals. Japan however, has a higher age of consent for same-sex partners as opposed to opposite-sex couples. Tokyo has worked to ban discrimination of homosexuals in the workplace, but civil rights laws regarding the issue in Japan have been slow to gain support.

Greece—Currently views LGBT people and the community as acting contrary to culture and human nature. The Orthodox Church in Greece labels homosexual acts and relationships as a sin. Same-sex activity is legal, yet there is no uniform age of consent and no recognition of same-sex couples. Same-sex couples cannot adopt or serve in the military.

South Africa—In 1993, a Post-Apartheid South Africa and the African National Congress recognized the legality of same sex marriage. South Africa would also become the first country to prohibit same-sex discrimination in their constitution. However, outside of major cities in South Africa, discrimination and harassment occur more severely than in the major cities.

France—Transsexual people are allowed to change legal sex, but like many areas around the world, same sex marriages aren’t recognized. A trend not seen is most countries is France allowing those of the LGBT community to serve in the military. France does recognize same-sex relationships under what are called Civil Solidarity Pacts (PACS).

Brazil—Recognizes civil unions, allows same-sex couples to adopt and permits gays and lesbians to serve in the military. The country holds one of the largest pride parades in the world each year.