LGBT rights in Guernsey
| LGBT rights in Guernsey | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Same-sex sexual activity legal? | Legal since 1984, age of consent equal since 2010 |
| Military service | UK military since 2000 |
| Discrimination protections | Yes, since 2004 |
| Family rights | |
| Adoption | No |
Lesbian, gay, bisexuals, and transgender (LGBT) persons in Guernsey may face legal challenges not experienced by non-LGBT residents. Same-sex sexual activity for both men and women is legal in Guernsey, but households headed by same-sex couples are not eligible for the same legal protections available to opposite-sex couples.
Law regarding same-sex sexual activity
Prior to September 1984, Same-sex sexual activity was illegal; after decriminalization, the age of consent was set at 21 (in line with the UK at that time). In 1998, the age of consent for male homosexual acts was lowered to 18. In 2010, the age of consent was lowered to 16, became gender-neutral for all sexual conduct, regardless of gender and/or sexual orientation. However, Guernsey retains male homosexual specific offences in its criminal law. [1]
Recognition of same-sex relationships
There is no civil marriage for same sex couples in Guernsey. Nor is there any provision for civil partnerships. However, civil partnerships performed in the United Kingdom are recognised for succession purposes in inheritance and other matters respecting interests in property since April 2012.[2][3]
Discrimination protections
Discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender reassignment is banned since 2004.[4]
Adoption and parenting
Although same-sex couples can't legally adopt, lesbian couples can have access to IVF and artificial insemination.
Summary table
| Same-sex sexual activity legal |  (since 1984) |
| Equal age of consent | (since 2010) |
| Anti-discrimination laws in employment only | (since 2004) |
| Anti-discrimination laws in the provision of goods and services | (since 2004) |
| Anti-discrimination laws in all other areas (incl. indirect discrimination, hate speech) |  |
| Same-sex marriages | |
| Recognition of same-sex couples | / (inheritance and other matters respecting interests in property only) |
| Step-child adoption by same-sex couples | |
| Joint adoption by same-sex couples | |
| Gays and lesbians allowed to serve openly in the military | (UK responsible for defence) |
| Right to change legal gender | (since 2007) |
| Access to IVF for lesbians | (since 2009) |
| Commercial surrogacy for gay male couples | |
See also
References
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