Canada and gay rights

Learn more about the development of LGBTI rights, and how these rights are protected within Canada and internationally.

Canada stands up for the protection and promotion of the human rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, 2-spirit and intersex (LGBTQ2I) people globally. Canada is known for its progressive stance on LGBT rights, offering some of the most extensive protections in the world. In fact, same-sex sexual activity was decriminalized in Canada on June 27, , with the introduction of the Criminal Law Amendment Act (Bill C).

This article looks at the statistics around LGBTQ+ rights in Canada, including data from the most recent Canadian census. It also includes a brief history of LGBTQ+ rights in Canada and how the Canadian government is supporting the LGBTQ+ community. 2SLGBTQ+ rights have come a long way in Canada. Our Family Law group has created a timeline that revisits key legal decisions and events that have contributed towards progression 2SLGBTQ + rights in our country.

Canada stands up for the protection and promotion of the human rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, 2-spirit and intersex LGBTQ2I people globally.

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The human rights of all persons are universal and indivisible. Everyone should enjoy the same fundamental human rights, regardless of their sexual orientation and their gender identity and expression. Nearly 30 countries, including Canada, recognize same-sex marriage. By contrast, more than 70 countries still criminalize consensual same-sex conduct. This includes 6 countries that effectively impose the death penalty on consensual same-sex sexual acts.

In 6 other countries, the death penalty is a possible punishment. Around the globe, people experience violence and discrimination because of their sexual orientation or gender identity or expression. Since , an independent expert on sexual orientation and gender identity has also been mandated by the council to:. Its main goal is to work within the UN framework to ensure universal respect for the human rights and fundamental freedoms of LGBTI people.

The World Health Organization draws links between sexual health, human rights and the law. In , the World Bank appointed its first adviser on sexual orientation and gender identity issues. The report features a special chapter on LGBT people. Canada served as co-chair, with Chile, of the ERC from to This program helps the country achieve the aims of its Feminist International Assistance Policy.

This funding complements and supports the efforts of partners and movements working with LGBTQ2I communities in developing countries. These new initiatives rely on consulting our partners and on their participation. This program responds to the needs, realities and priorities of LGBTQ2I persons and their representative organizations. The human rights-based approach and recommendations of experts, partners and stakeholders provide direction to our delivery of LGBTQ2I-inclusive international assistance.

We are:. Canada continues to encourage the sponsorship of refugees who face violence and persecution.