LGBT rights in Venezuela

Sexual orientation in Venezuelan law

Homosexuality is legal in Venezuela. Discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation was outlawed in the 1999 Labour Organic Law (Ley Orgánica de Trabajo).

In the process leading up to the adoption of the new 1999 Venezuelan Constitution, anti-discrimination provisions were proposed, however due to forceful opposition from the Catholic Church, they were dropped from the final draft. In 2001, there were renewed attempts to include them in the Constitution. In 2002, Current President Hugo Chávez voiced his regret for their exclusion, signaling that they may be included in future rounds of constitutional reform.

The recent constitutional reforms, put forth by the National Assembly, are scheduled for a national referendum on December 2nd 2007. The proposed reform of Article 21 would add sexual orientation and health to the categories under which discrimination is prohibited.

Recognition of same sex couples

There is no legal recognition of same-sex couples. In 2006, newly elected legislators have stated their intention to debate same-sex marriage legalization in the national assembly.

Gay life in Venezuela

Venezuela is home to a thriving gay community. Since 2000, International Day of Gay Rights has been marked, while recently the government has began participating in Gay Pride Day for the first time. However, police harassment and homophobia in the workplace remain as serious problems.

External links

* [http://www.gaytimes.co.uk/gt/listings.asp?action=ShowCountry&CID=1012 Gay Venezuela]