Is homosexuality legal in Barbados?

No. Under the Sexual Offences Act, “buggery” – sometimes referred to as sodomy – which is a description of anal sex, is illegal and punishable by up to life imprisonment.I

t appears that there have been no recent prosecutions under this law, but it remains part of the criminal code.

There is an indication from political leaders that there would be a willingness to change the law, but there is continuing resistance from evangelical religious groups.

The best hope of legalising homosexuality in Barbados is probably through legal appeal.

Are there anti-discrimination protections for LGBTQ people in Barbados?

Yes – there is legislation that was passed in August 2020 that extends anti-discrimination protections to LGBTQ people.

Is there Marriage Equality in Barbados?

No, there is no legal recognition of same-sex relationships.

It appears that the country is moving towards a referendum on Marriage Equality.

What’s life like for LGBTQ people in Barbados?

Barbados is a socially conservative country. While attitudes are changing, homosexuality is still largely seen as a taboo subject.

Trans people are particularly vulnerable to harassment, assault, and violence