LGBTQ rights in Cyprus | |
|---|---|
 Location of Cyprus (dark green) – in Europe (light green & dark grey) | |
| Status | Legal since 1998, age of consent equalised in 2002 |
| Military | Allowed to serve openly |
| Discrimination protections | Sexual orientation and gender identity protections (see below) |
| Family rights | |
| Recognition of relationships | Same-sex unions since 2015 |
| Adoption | Not allowed |
Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) rights in Cyprus have evolved in recent years, but LGBTQ people still face legal challenges not experienced by non-LGBT residents. Both male and female expressions of same-sex sexual activity were decriminalised in 1998, and civil unions which grant several of the rights and benefits of marriage have been legal since December 2015. Conversion therapy was banned in Cyprus in May 2023.[1] However, adoption rights in Cyprus are reserved for heterosexual couples only.
Traditionally, the socially conservative Greek Orthodox Church has had significant influence over public opinion and politics regarding LGBT rights. However, ever since Cyprus sought membership in the European Union, it had to change its human rights legislation, including its laws regarding sexual orientation and gender identity. Attitudes towards members of the LGBT community are evolving and becoming increasingly more accepting and tolerant, with a recent opinion poll showing that a majority of Cypriots now support same-sex marriage.[2]
- ^ "Council of Europe congratulates Cyprus for banning conversion 'therapies'". 26 May 2023.
- ^ Cite error: The named reference
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