fbpx

15 Countries Where It Is Illegal to Be Gay

©Wikimedia Commons ©Wikipedia

It’s hard to believe that in 2019 we still live in a world where being gay can put you behind bars – or even worse. All of the statistics in this article are from Human Rights Watch, so visit their site to learn more about specific laws.

Keep in mind that some of these laws are old and enforcement may be more strict in some countries than others.

1. Brunei

Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons

The tiny nation recently passed a law that states that people who in engage in gay sex (and adultery) will be put to death by stoning.

2. Mauritania

Death by stoning for men. A $210 fine and up to 2 years in prison for women.

3. Sudan

Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons

A person’s first two offenses carry a punishment of lashes and 5 years in prison. A third offense equals a death sentence.

4. Yemen

Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons

For married men, death by stoning. Unmarried men receive 100 lashes and one year in prison. Women get 100 lashings and up to 3 years in prison.

5. Bangladesh

Photo Credit: Pixabay

10 years to life in prison.

6. Egypt

Photo Credit: Pixabay

3 months to 3 years in prison. Some adults may be placed in a “special reformatory” after they complete their sentences.

7. Ethiopia

Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons

Up to 15 years in prison.

8. Grenada

Photo Credit: Flickr,Cowbell Solo

10 years in prison.

9. Jamaica

Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons

10 years in prison and hard labor.

10. Kuwait

Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons

Up to 7 years in prison.

11. Morocco

Photo Credit: Pixabay

6 months to 3 years in prison.

12. Nigeria

Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons

Up to 14 years in prison.

13. Singapore

Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons

Up to 2 years in prison.

14. Uganda

Photo Credit: Pixabay

Life in prison.

15. United Arab Emirates

Photo Credit: GoodFreePhotos

Up to one year in prison and a fine.

Scary stuff.