LGBT rights in Suriname

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) persons in Suriname may face legal challenges not experienced by non-LGBT residents. Both male and female same-sex sexual activity is legal in Suriname, though the age of consent is 2 years higher than for opposite-sex sexual activity.

Law regarding same-sex sexual activity

Same-sex sexual activity is legal in Suriname.^[2]

The age of consent is set at 18 for homosexuals, 16 for heterosexuals. The code section which criminalises homosexual acts with someone under the age of 18 with up to four years imprisonment (Section 302) is rarely enforced.^[3]

Recognition of same-sex relationships

Same-sex marriages, civil unions or domestic partnerships are not recognised.

Discrimination protections

There are no anti-discrimination laws; as a result the LGBT people are not legally protected from discrimination.

Activism

Suriname's first public gay rights march took place on 11 October 2011 (National Coming Out Day in the United States, Nationale kom uit de kast dag in the Netherlands) in Paramaribo, following Ronny Asabina's comments against homosexuality in June. Two members of parliament, including Harish Monorath, attended the event.^[4] It was partly organized by Suriname Men United, the largest gay men's organization in the country.

Summary table

Same-sex sexual activity legal	(Since 1869)
Equal age of consent
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 marriages
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
Right to change legal gender
Equal access to IVF and surrogacy for all couples and individuals
MSMs allowed to donate blood

See also

• LGBT rights in the Americas

Notes