LGBT rights in Palau

Same-sex sexual activity is legal in Palau since 23 July 2014, when the current penal code took effect.^[1][2] Previously, male same-sex sex sexual activity was illegal and punishable by up to ten years in prison; however, female same-sex activity was legal.^[3] In October 2011, the island's government promised the full decriminalisation.^[4][5]

Palau’s constitution defines marriage as between a man and a woman. Palau constitutionalized the same-sex marriage ban in 2008. The ban was among the 22 amendments passed during the November 4, 2008 referendum.^[6][7]

Open displays of affection between same-sex partners may offend.^[8]

Summary table

Same-sex sexual activity legal	Since 2014
Equal age of consent	Since 2014
Anti-discrimination laws in employment only
Anti-discrimination laws in the provision of goods and services
Anti-discrimination laws in all other areas (Incl. indirect discrimination, hate speech)
Same-sex marriage	(Constitutional ban since 2008)
Recognition of same-sex couples
Step-child adoption by same-sex couples
Joint adoption by same-sex couples
Gays and lesbians allowed to serve openly in the military	Has no military
Right to change legal gender
Access to IVF for lesbians
Commercial surrogacy for gay male couples
MSMs allowed to donate blood

References