What’s life like for LGBTQ people in Jordan? Let’s take a look at some of the key equality indicators.
Is homosexuality legal in Jordan?
Yes. A change in the penal code in 1951 removed the prohibition on same-sex sexual activity.
However, LGBTQ people can still be prosecuted for “disrupting public morality” so it’s a bit of a confusing picture.
Honour killings – in which family members might murder someone for bringing shame on the family – are prohibited.
Are there anti-discrimination protections in place for LGBTQ people in Jordan?
No.
Is there Marriage Equality in Jordan?
No. There is no legal recognition of same-sex relationships.
What’s life like for LGBTQ people in Jordan?
Strategically located at the crossroads of Asia, Africa, and Europe, The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan is a constitutional monarchy, and a founding member of the Arab League. Its capital is the city of Amman.
Jordan is a socially conservative country. Media censorship frequently prohibits LGBTQ-related films or published material from being widely available.
LGBTQ people conceal their sexuality.
In the main city of Amman, there are some cafes that are considered to be gay-friendly.
We spoke with Hasan Kalani for his perspective on life in Jordan.
Jordan is one of the few Muslim countries where homosexuality is not explicitly illegal. Does that mean that it’s possible for gay men to be honest about their sexuality in Jordan?
Jordan decriminalised homosexuality in the first Jordanian constitution after securing independence from the British.
However, Jordan is a conservative country — whether you’re gay or straight, public displays of affection could be punishable if they’re deemed to constitute public indecency.
What’s life like for gay guys in Jordan?
It’s like many other places — the privileged rich can enjoy their life without many restrictions, while the poor have to suffer within a less educated and less accepting community.
However, this isn’t always the case — my family come from a conservative background and they’re not privileged, but they have accepted me and supported me.
Are there safe spaces such as cafes or clubs where gay guys can meet?
In general, the clubs and bars in Amman don’t really care if you’re gay, as long as you look good, dress well, and can pay the money. However, at these clubs, gay guys can’t dance together or get intimate in the way that straight people do — the bouncers would throw them out, even if the place is being promoted as ‘gay friendly.’
The LGBTQ community are becoming more united and creating social spaces, so that it’s not just the rich guys with nice cars who can afford to go to ‘gay friendly’ places.
We’ve read that Jordanian men feel pressured to project a masculine and macho image, is that your experience?
Yes, but to be honest I’ve found that pretty much the same in western countries, where to call someone feminine is an insult.
What advice would you give to gay guys visiting Jordan?
Jordan love visitors, and we love to have people visiting and complimenting our country.
Before you visit, read a bit about our dress code, and how we behave. Be respectful, and enjoy your time.
Also, sex work is illegal, so it’s not the destination for that.
Do guys in Jordan use dating apps?
Yes — most people have smartphones and it’s common to use apps for dating and hooking-up.
People are generally fairly discreet — you’ll find that a lot of guys on hook-up apps in Jordan will be closeted.
Are things getting better for gay men in Jordan?
Things are getting better for everyone. The younger generation, aged 19–25, are fighting for equality in every corner. We’re seeing more advocacy in art, and more visibility for the LGBTQ community. Being gay is no longer a taboo subject, it’s on the table to be discussed.
