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

Is homosexuality legal in South Sudan?

No. Same-sex sexual activity is illegal and can be punished by up to ten years in prison.

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

There are no protections against discrimination on the basis of sexuality.

Is there Marriage Equality in South Sudan?

There is no legal recognition of same-sex relationships.

What’s life like for LGBTQ people in South Sudan?

South Sudan is one of the world’s newest countries. It was formed in 2011, one of the outcomes of an extended and brutal civil war in this part of the world.

South Sudan is a predominantly Christian country, and it broke away from the northern region which is predominantly Muslim.

While there was initially a great deal of optimism that the creation of South Sudan might be able to bring peace to this part of the world, ten years on and conditions on the ground are still very uncertain.

Effectively, there isn’t any government infrastructure. Power rests with the military – the guerrilla forces that fought in the civil war.

Day-to-day life for civilians is difficult and dangerous.

South Sudan is a socially conservative country.

Homosexuality is a taboo subject, and LGBTQ people conceal their sexuality.

Homophobia is systemic and LGBTQ people are persecuted and prosecuted.