The 21st century has seen several countries get rid of archaic laws. However, others are becoming increasingly extreme in their persecution of the LGBTQ+ community. While some countries have legalized same-gender marriage, the LGBTQ+ community still has a long way to go. Of the 193 countries in the United Nations, 30 countries have legalized the LGBTQ+ community and allow for joint adoption by same-sex couples.
However, over 60 countries still criminalize same-sex marriages, according to the International Gay and Lesbian Aquatics Association (IGLA). Here’s a look into some of these countries.
Afghanistan’s Sharia law criminalizes same-sex marriages for both men and women, with a maximum of the death penalty. Consequently, members of the LGBTQ+ community in the country keep their gender identity and sexual orientation secret for fear of violence and the death penalty. In addition, LGBTQ+ people in Afghanistan face severe legal challenges and discrimination. However, the religious nature of the country has limited any opportunity for public discussion, with any mention of homosexuality and related terms deemed taboo.Like Afghanistan, Algeria views homosexuality and cross-dressing as against the Islamic faith. Hence, the country outlaws same-sex relations. In the North African nation, the LGBTQ+ community faces between 2 months and two years imprisonment and a fine of 500 to 2000 Algerian Dinars. However, if one of the participants is below 18 years old, they increase the older person’s punishment to 3 years imprisonment and a fine of 10,000 dinars.In Bangladesh, LGBTQ+ people have no human rights. The country criminalizes LGBTQ+ people, and the punishment for engaging in same-sex sexual activities is between 10 years to life imprisonment. Aside from the archaic laws, Bangladeshi society does not support homosexuality, and many people view it negatively. If anyone identifies as LGBTQ, the person faces hatred, discrimination, and even sometimes assault. Hence, LGBTQ+ people do not express their sexual orientation in society for fear.Brunei is another country where the LGBTQ+ community faces severe legal and social challenges. The country outlaws same-sex relations and criminalizes gender expression, a man ‘posing’ as a woman and vice versa. The punishment for same-sex conduct in Brunei is capital punishment, with lesser penalties of imprisonment and whipping. Although the sultanate suspended capital punishment, which was still in effect in May 2023, they could revoke it anytime.Burundi never criminalized the LGBTQ+ community before 2009. However, today, the country criminalizes same-sex acts by both men and women. Sexual relations with someone of the same gender are punishable with imprisonment for three months to two years and a fine of 50,000 to 100,000 francs (US$30 to $60). Aside from being regularly prosecuted by the government, the LGBTQ+ community also faces stigmatization among the broader population.
