LGBT rights in Belize

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LGBT rights in Belize
Belize
Belize
Same-sex sexual activity legal? Male illegal,
female legal[1]
Penalty:
 10 years imprisonment[1]
Gender identity/expression -
Family rights

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) persons in Belize face legal challenges not experienced by non-LGBT citizens. Male same-sex sexual activity is illegal in Belize, with a penalty of 10 years imprisonment.[1] Female same-sex sexual activity is legal.[1]

Additionally, under section 26 ii (d) of the Immigration Act 1958,

“ Any prostitute or homosexual or any person who may be living on or receiving or may have been living on or receiving the proceeds of prostitution or homosexual behavior. ... ”

is outlawed from entering Belize.[2]

[edit] Effort to decriminalize homosexuality

In July 2010, UNIBAM (United Belize Advocacy Movement) filed a case in the Supreme Court to denounce the inconstitutionality of the anti-homosexual laws with the support of the International Commission of Jurists, the Commonwealth Lawyers’ Association and the Human Dignity Trust. The Catholic and the Protestant churches reacted negatively to this, saying that same-sex marriage would be next.[3][4] The first hearing took place in January 30, 2012. Justice Michelle Arana is expected to return with a decision. No date has been set for the ruling yet.[5]

[edit] See also

Portal icon LGBT portal
Portal icon Human rights portal

[edit] References

  1. ^ a b c d Ottosson, Daniel (May 2009). "State-sponsored Homophobia: A world survey of laws prohibiting same sex activity between consenting adults". International Lesbian and Gay Association (ILGA). pp. Page 14. http://www.ilga.org/statehomophobia/ILGA_State_Sponsored_Homophobia_2009.pdf. Retrieved 2009-05-19. 
  2. ^ Gay Belize - GayTimes
  3. ^ http://lapress.org/articles.asp?art=6535
  4. ^ http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/nov/16/global-campaign-decriminalise-homosexuality-belize-court?INTCMP=SRCH
  5. ^ http://edition.channel5belize.com/archives/66249
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