What’s life like for LGBTQ people in Benin? Let’s take a look at some of the key indicators.

Is it homosexuality legal in Benin?

The legal situation is a bit confusing, but the short answer is that it is legal to be gay in Benin.

Benin was colonised by France and adopted its legal system in 1877. A 1947 amendment to the criminal code created an offence if someone engaged in same-sex sexual acts with someone who was under the age of 21.

There’s been some attempts to criminalise homosexuality, but the government currently seems content to leave things as they currently stand.

Are there any anti-discrimination protections in place for LGBTQ people in Benin?

There are no anti-discrimination protections that protect LGBTQ people from discrimination on the basis of sexuality.

Is there Marriage Equality in Benin?

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

What’s life like for LGBTQ people in Benin?

Benin is a socially conservative country and homosexuality is generally seen as a taboo subject.

There is a small LGBTQ community in Benin, but most people are forced to conceal their sexuality.

What's the history of homosexuality in Benin?

In pre-colonial Benin, homosexuality was seen as a phase that boys passed through and grew out of.