Country Overview
Cyprus
At a glance
Same-sex Relations for Men Legal Throughout the Country?
Same-sex Relations for Women Legal Throughout the Country?
Legal Gender Recognition Possible?
LGBTI Orgs Able to Register?
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Cyprus has progressed significantly in protecting the rights of LGBTIQ people in the last decade. In 2014, Northern Cyprus was the last territory in Europe to decriminalize same-sex relations. Today, same-sex couples are legally recognized through civil unions, although the Greek Orthodox Church in Cyprus opposes same-sex marriage and the granting of other rights to LGBTIQ people.
Employment discrimination based on sexual orientation is banned, but other forms of discrimination against LGBTIQ people remain legal. In 2015, Cyprus criminalized incitement to violence or hatred on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity. This was strengthened in 2017 when the criminal code was updated to provide aggravated penalties when a crime is committed based on the victim’s sexual orientation and gender identity. In 2023, Cyprus prohibited conversion practices. However, the law relies entirely on criminal sanctions and does not address root causes. In October 2024, the Cyprus Council of Ministers approved the creation of a National LGBTI Strategy aimed at combating discrimination, ensuring equality and safety, and building an inclusive society for LGBTI people.
Several civil society organizations are working to end violence and discrimination against LGBTIQ people in Cyprus. In 2014, Cyprus held its first Pride event, which has since been an annual celebration.
*Outright research indicates that the bodily autonomy of intersex people is not respected and protected in this country.
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