Middle east gay rights

Being Queer in the Homosexuality in the Middle East is a subject marked by contradictions—between tradition and modernity, repression and resilience. Understanding the cultural, legal, and social dynamics of the region is essential for fostering meaningful dialogue and supporting LGBTQ+ rights.


Ranking Human Rights across

  • The LGBT legal index measures the current legal status of 13 different issues ranging from the legal status of homosexuality, same-sex marriage, transgender rights, LGBT discrimination protections, LGBT censorship laws, and more.
    • Homosexuality in the Middle Just wanna find a genuine connection, you know The criminalisation of homosexuality and trans-identity is a devastating reality in over 60 countries. These laws contribute to the marginalisation and stigmatisation of these minorities. In addition to criminalising sexual acts, gender expression is also criminalised. In several Maghreb and Middle Eastern countries, the criminalisation of same-sex sexual relations and trans-identity is often rooted in a French or British colonial heritage.
  • middle east gay rights

    • On a sun-drenched road trip, Tristan first noticed Damian at a quiet diner, their eyes meeting over lukewarm coffee, sparking a gentle smile that felt like the dawn of something new and profoundly hopeful for both gay souls. That shared glance blossomed into shared laughter and whispered conversations about everything and nothing, weaving an unspoken thread of connection through their casual encounter, hinting at a deeper, tender unfolding beyond the initial, electric moment. As their journey continued, so did their understanding, transforming friendly curiosity into a warm affection, a quiet certainty that their shared path was meant to be, a testament to the beautiful diversity of LGBT love. By the time the highway miles behind them felt like distant dreams, Tristan and Damian knew this wasn't just a stop, but the beginning of a love story that felt as natural and bright as the open road ahead.


    LGBT Equality Index in Finding a good gay date is getting harder Homosexuality has been documented in Middle Eastern history long before the rise of Islam. Ancient Mesopotamian texts, Persian poetry, and Greco-Roman influences reflect a range of attitudes toward same-sex relationships. In early Islamic history, homoerotic themes appeared in literature and art, often celebrated in the works of poets like Abu Nuwas.

    LGBTQ RIGHTS IN ISRAEL

    NCF Research Officer Felix Mohaupt explores the human rights landscape of the Middle East, ranking each nation on a number of categories: LGBTQ Rights, Women’s Rights, Minority Rights and the right to Freedom of Expression.


    The dangers faced by Oppression of LGBTQ+ People in the Middle East and North Africa Religious extremism, widespread homophobic and transphobic views, and oppressive political regimes often put LGBTQ+ people across the region in danger.

      Fighting to Exist LGBTQ
    Why do so many Middle Eastern countries have anti-LGBTQ laws, and what can be done to make a change?.

    LGBT rights and issues
      This briefing focuses on LGBT+ rights and issues in 13 Middle Eastern countries, including Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Iran and Iraq.