LGBT rights in São Tomé and Príncipe

LGBT rights in São Tomé and Príncipe

Same-sex sexual activity legal? Legal
Discrimination protections No
Family rights
Recognition of
relationships
No
Adoption No

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) persons in São Tomé and Príncipe face legal challenges not experienced by non-LGBT residents. Both male and female same-sex sexual activity is legal in São Tomé and Príncipe. The nation is one of the 66 signatories to the Joint Statement on Human Rights, Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity.

Laws regarding same-sex sexual activity

Under the Penal Code of São Tomé and Príncipe that took effect in November 2012, same-sex sexual activity between consenting adults is legal.[1][2]

Recognition of same-sex relationships

São Tomé and Príncipe does not recognize same-sex marriages, civil unions, or domestic partnerships.

Discrimination protections

There is no legal protection against discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity.

International obligations

São Tomé and Príncipe signed the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights on 31 October 1995.[3]

Summary table

Same-sex sexual activity legal Since 2012
Equal age of consent Since 2012
Anti-discrimination laws in employment only
Anti-discrimination laws in the provision of goods and services
Anti-discrimination laws in all other areas (Incl. indirect discrimination, hate speech)
Same-sex marriages
Recognition of same-sex couples
Step-child adoption by same-sex couples
Joint adoption by same-sex couples
Gays and lesbians allowed to serve openly in the military
Right to change legal gender
Access to IVF for lesbians
Commercial surrogacy for gay male couples
MSMs allowed to donate blood

See also

References

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