All over the world, people face inequality, discrimination and violence just because of who they love, how they dress and how they identify themselves.Read More
The issue in depth
Gender and sexual equality
We all have the right to be treated equally, no matter our sexual orientation or gender identity. Despite recent wins for equality around the world, in many countries – including Australia – the right to express our sexuality is still being challenged.
- 76 countries criminalise sexual acts between adults of the same sex.
- In 10 countries the maximum sentence for sexual acts between same sex adults is the death penalty.
- 23 European countries require transgender people to be sterilised before their gender is legally recognised.
- In more than 70 countries, it’s illegal to be openly gay.
Alongside our dedicated activists around the world, Amnesty works for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and intersex peoples’ rights. Through our research, activism and campaigning we help ensure that all people can live in dignity, safety and freedom.
Right now in Australia LGBTQI couples do not have the freedom to express their love and commitment to one another through marriage. However, two-thirds of Australians think everyone should be free to marry whomever they choose.
David, an Amnesty LGBTQI activist, puts it beautifully:
“Last year I got engaged to my fiancé. The problem is that we cannot currently get married in Australia…Now is the time to make the push for equal marriage regardless of gender and orientation. We need to use the momentum and our voices as well as those of our allies to make this change happen.
“Who someone chooses to love should only be a matter for the people involved. Extending marriage to anyone who may choose to partake in it, whilst also being respected under the law should be a right, not a privilege.”
Everyone should be treated equally under the law. Love is love. Simple as that.Close
Our work on the rights of the LGBTQI community
Our work on LGBTQI rights spans the globe.Read More
In Australia, we have a very active LGBTQI activist network campaigning on sexuality issues, including working in partnership with groups campaigning for marriage equality.
Marriage is about love and commitment and, in a country based on equal citizenship, it should be available to everyone. We are a proud member of the Equality campaign and our activists and supporters all around the country are committed to winning the fight for marriage equality. Find out more about our marriage equality campaign.
Internationally, Amnesty conducts research, provides training, and advocates for reform to advance equality and safety for all. For more information, see our international LGBTQI campaign updates and research.Close
What needs to happen?
LGBTQI rights are human rightsRead More
The right to express our sexuality and make decisions about our own lives, regardless of our gender identity or sexual orientation, is under threat around the world.
Please support us in calling on all governments, including Australia, to:
- make marriage equality a reality once and for all
- stop using criminal law to control sexuality and reproduction
- prohibit all forms of discrimination and violence against LGBTQI people.