Is there a place for LGBTQ people within Vatican City? Let’s take a look at some of the key equality indicators.

Is homosexuality legal in Vatican City?

Yes. There are no criminal laws against non-commercial, private, adult and consensual same-sex sexual activity.

The age of consent is 18 years old.

Are there anti-discrimination protections for LGBTQ people in Vatican City?

No. It’s the official policy of the Catholic Church that “homosexuals may not be unjustly discriminated against” but Vatican City actively discriminates against LGBTQ people. For example, foreign diplomats who are part of a same-sex family will not be accredited by Vatican City.

The Vatican reserves the inalienable right to remove, suspend and dismiss immediately any official and employee who publicly admits to being gay or who even questions the general policy of the Vatican towards homosexuals.

Is there Marriage Equality in Vatican City?

No. There is no legal recognition of same-sex relationships.

What’s life like for LGBTQ people in Vatican City?

While there is plenty of evidence confirming that LGBTQ people have found roles within Vatican City – particularly gay men – the official policy is that anyone identified as gay will be removed from Vatican City.