Bhutan gay rights

In , Bhutan took a historic step by repealing sections of its Penal Code that previously criminalized same-sex relationships. Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people in Bhutan face legal challenges that are not faced by non- LGBTQ people. LGBT Rights in Bhutan: homosexuality, gay marriage, gay adoption, serving in the military, sexual orientation discrimination protection, changing legal gender, donating blood, age of consent, and more.

Whilst homosexuality is not explicitly criminalized in Bhutan, society remains conservative. Same-sex unions are not recognised, however, same-sex sexual activity was decriminalised in Bhutan on 17 February LGBT rights in Bhutan have been evolving in recent years, with the Himalayan nation decriminalizing homosexuality in This change in legislation reflects a progressive shift in the country’s attitude towards sexual orientation and gender identity.

Bhutan’s LGBTQ+ movement is gaining momentum, with activists and organizations working to promote equality and inclusivity: RAINBOW Bhutan: One of the key organizations advocating for LGBTQ+ rights, offering support and raising awareness. Whilst Bhutan is not a trailblazer when it comes to the most gay friendly countries in Asia , the LGBTQ rights in Bhutan are certainly on the path to positive change.

My pronouns are He, They, and Them. In February , the Bhutanese government turned this around by dropping this archaic law, paving the way for the LGBTQ community of Bhutan to come proudly sashaying out of the closet. On the one hand, there are pockets of acceptance and support, particularly among younger generations and in urban areas.

By contrast, I have come out to all my close friends and they accept me for who I am. Bhutan only started to open up to tourism in and still restricts the number of people allowed to enter as a way of preserving its infrastructure, culture, and environment. Bhutanese culture and modern-day traditions date back centuries — it felt like we'd stepped into a time machine and gone back in time to a grand Medieval age.

We spoke to a couple of inspiring LGBTQ people in Thimphu who gave us their unique perspective on what it's like growing up queer in modern-day Bhutan. Kuzu Zangpo La! I am Ugyen Wangchuk, born in I am openly gay. Even the airport felt like we were in a museum, crafted with such care that everywhere you look you're wowed by the details and colors.

I've never had a negative reaction from any of them. This landmark decision reflected the nation’s alignment with Buddhist principles of compassion (karuna) and non-discrimination. Bhutan blew our minds in every way. Bhutan, which measures progress with a 'gross national happiness' metric, has decriminalized gay sex and seen a rise in LGBTQ acceptance and activism.

Well, our gay trip to Bhutan in early is certainly up there! ALL food in Bhutan is so heavily laden with chili that it blew our minds and taste buds! However, I face more stigma and discrimination from older members of society. Beyond the sapid food and pungent flavors, Bhutan retains a special in our hearts.

Being an openly gay man in Bhutan can present both challenges and opportunities. I find that openly expressing my sexual orientation can be met with certain degrees of resistance! No seriously : the national dish is a spicy chili cheese stew. Have you ever wondered what gay life in Bhutan is like?

They've always been fully supportive. This hold to its past also meant that LGBTQ rights remained tightly underdeveloped, with an anti-gay law in place…until recently. I have not yet formally come out to my family, but deep down I think they must know. Bhutan celebrated the decriminalisation of homosexuality in but LGBTIQ+ activists are pushing for the legal recognition of all gender identities and marriage equality.