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Country Overview

Marshall Islands

At a glance

Same-sex Relations for Men Legal Throughout the Country?

Yes

Same-sex Relations for Women Legal Throughout the Country?

Yes

Legal Gender Recognition Possible?

No

LGBTI Orgs Able to Register?

Yes

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In the Marshall Islands, same-sex sexual activity is legal, although same-sex couples cannot adopt or enter into marriage or civil unions. The Gender Equality Act of 2019 bans gender discrimination, including multiple and intersectional discrimination, in employment and includes sexual orientation as a protected identity under these provisions. There have been few reports of discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity. “Brighten the Rainbow” is the first known LGBTIQ initiative in the Marshall Islands, and the project focuses on support for LGBTIQ youth. Diversity in gender identity and expression can be seen in kakōl, who may live among women and adopt traditionally feminine roles in society. In 2011, the Marshall Islands joined over 80 countries in signing the United Nations’ "joint statement on ending acts of violence and related human rights violations based on sexual orientation and gender identity.”

 

Global Impact

Sub-Saharan Africa

Outright supports LGBTIQ organizations in Sub-Saharan Africa and works with mainstream human rights organizations to respect human rights and influence positive changes in laws, policies, attitudes and beliefs that cause discrimination against LGBTIQ people.

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United Nations

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Europe and Central Asia

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Our work in the Americas continues to build on the fundamental and positive transformation of human rights protections in recent years. We partner with groups in the Caribbean that focus on ending gender-based violence and eradicating discrimination against trans people.

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Pacific

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