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

Is homosexuality legal in Croatia?

Croatia’s history is fairly complicated, but it seems that it was in the aftermath of World War II that authorities began to turn their attention to the legality of same-sex sexual activity.

Repression began at the end of the war, with gay men described as enemies of the state and homosexuality was listed as the crime for a number of death sentences.

In 1951, the penal code specifically made homosexuality illegal with a punishment of two years imprisonment.

In 1977, Croatia decriminalised homosexuality.

The age-of-consent was equalised in 1998.

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

Yes. Anti-discrimination protections specifically include the grounds of sexuality.

Is there Marriage Equality in Croatia?Not quite. Legal recognition for same-sex relationships was established in 2003, however the country’s constitution specifically limits marriage to opposite-sex couples.

What’s life like for LGBTQ people in Croatia?

The Catholic Church continues to play a strong role in public affairs in Croatia, and has been a powerful advocate against LGBTQ equality.

However, Croatia is generally an accepting and welcoming country for LGBTQ people.