Disclaimer: This Safety Index is created to shine a light on the challenges many countries face in addressing homophobia and transphobia. While it reflects a range of perspectives, it is grounded in research from LGBTQ+ organizations that document human rights concerns affecting our communities. Our goal is not only to raise awareness of these realities, but also to celebrate the powerful work of LGBTQ+ activists who are building safer, more inclusive spaces every day. By sharing this index, we hope to inspire dialogue, solidarity, and action toward a world where LGBTQ+ lives are respected, protected, and celebrated.

Safe

Safe

  Safe | Countries with this rating follow ≥ 70% of the criteria below

  • Same-sex marriage or civil unions recognized by law
  • Adoption rights for LGBTQ+ families
  • Gender recognition procedures that respect self-identification
  • Laws protecting against discrimination in employment, housing, healthcare, and education
  • Equal access to public services
  • Clear penalties for hate crimes based on sexual orientation or gender identity
  • Active enforcement of these laws
  • Inclusive healthcare policies, including gender-affirming car
  • Mental health support tailored to LGBTQ+ needs
  • High levels of public support and visibility for LGBTQ+ communities
  • Pride events and cultural representation celebrated openly
  • Low risk of harassment or violence in public spaces
  • LGBTQ+ friendly infrastructure (community centers, safe nightlife, inclusive schools)
  • Strong presence of LGBTQ+ organizations and activists
  • Governmental support for equality initiatives
Caution

Caution

  Proceed with Caution | Criteria

  • Some equality protections, anti‑discrimination laws, and hate‑crime legislation — or peaceful, uninterrupted efforts to advance them
  • No or Limited Healthcare Access
  • Limited Social Acceptance
  • Limited Safe Travel and Daily Life
  • Active Advocacy and Representation
Dangerous

Dangerous

  Unsafe | Criteria

  • Same-sex relationship are illegal or punishable by death
  • Gender identity and expression restricted by law
  • No anti‑discrimination laws in employment, housing, healthcare, or education
  • No recognition of same‑sex partnerships or families
  • State‑sanctioned harassment, censorship, or persecution of LGBTQ+ groups
  • Bans on Pride events, advocacy organizations, or LGBTQ+ media
  • High rates of hate crimes and harassment with little or no accountability
  • Widespread cultural or religious intolerance fueling discrimination
  • Denial of gender‑affirming care or HIV treatmen
  • Medical systems that exclude or stigmatize LGBTQ+ patients
  • Activists face intimidation, arrest, or violence
  • Peaceful efforts for reform blocked or silence