LGBT rights in the Isle of Man

The Isle of Man is a British Crown dependency in the British Isles. This page summarises LGBT rights in the Isle of Man.

The Isle of Man was once known to be rather homophobic, as sodomy laws existed until rather recently in 1994, although they have since been abolished. Prior to September 1992, sodomy was illegal, then after decrimilization of sodomy (after the royal assent), the age of consent was set at 21 (in line with the UK at that time); then in 1997, the age of consent for male homosexual acts was lowered to 18. In 2006, the age of consent was lowered to 16, became gender-neutral for all sexual conduct (including sodomy); regardless of gender and/or sexual orientation [http://www.actwin.com/eatonohio/gay/isleofmanhok.html] . It is however an offence for anyone who is over the age of 18 to enter into a sexual relationship with someone aged 16 or 17 when in a position of trust over the young person. These provisions in law do not pose issue for LGBT rights.

Discrimination in the workplace

In 2005, the Isle of Man adopted legislation that outlawed the dismissal of employees on the grounds of their sexuality. [ [http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/europe/isle_of_man/4484280.stm BBC NEWS | World | Europe | Isle of Man | Gay employment rights are adopted ] ] Isle of Man LGBT reports that the government at the time was "falling behind" in line with European Human Rights decisions. [ [http://www.gayinfo.org.im/iom-politics.htm Isle of Man - LGBT ] ]

Recognising same-sex relationships

Today, there is still no system of recognising same-sex marriage. However, civil unions or other forms of partnerships from other countries are recognised. [ [http://www.gov.im/lib/docs/ipa/pension/sd743_05thecivilpartnershipact2.pdf SD743/05 The Civil Partnership Act 2004 (Application) (No2) Order 2005 ] ]

Adoption for people in same-sex relationships

Another topic that heated debate in Isle of Man was adoption for same-sex couples. The "Adoption (Same-Sex Couples) Bill 2008" will be introduced for a second reading into the House of Keys in April 2008.Fact|date=January 2008

Summary table

References

ee also

* Age of consent in Europe