Belgium gay rights

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) rights in Belgium are regarded as some of the most progressive in Europe and the world. [1][2][3] In , ILGA-Europe ranked Belgium as second in the European Union for LGBT rights protection, behind Malta. [4]. A recent amendment of the criminal law to include discrimination against gender and sexual diversity as an aggravating factor earned Belgium four extra points this year. There are 74 criteria divided between seven themed categories: equality and non-discrimination; family; hate crime and hate speech; legal gender recognition; intersex bodily integrity; civil society space; and asylum. And we are going to keep doing that.

LGBT Rights in Belgium: homosexuality, gay marriage, gay adoption, serving in the military, sexual orientation discrimination protection, changing legal gender, donating blood, age of consent, and more. Your browser is not supported for this experience. We recommend using Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari. Beloved for its historic charm, high fashion, and heavenly cuisine, Belgium is one of Europe's best open secrets for savvy travelers.

In Belgium, LGBT rights have significantly improved over the past few years, with a progressive legal framework and an Interfederal Action Plan against discrimination and violence against LGBTI persons. This date was chosen to commemorate the decision of the World Health Organization WHO , on May 17, , to no longer consider homosexuality as a mental illness. This international position is the result of continuous and persevering policy work. Indeed, marks the 20th anniversary of the adoption of the law allowing same-sex marriage.

Belgium remains one of the most progressive countries in Europe regarding LGBT+ rights. In , ILGA-Europe (the European region of the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association) ranked Belgium as second in the European Union for LGBT rights protection, behind Malta. This is the third in my recent series on various aspects of human rights in Belgium. If you are the victim of a crime with a gay, lesbian or transphobic motive, or you witnessed such a crime, and would like further information about the possibility to report it, there are many avenues to pursue. For urgent cases, you can call for the police or for an ambulance on your smartphone.