Story perspectives

Global LGBTQ+ Rights: Progress and Setbacks in 2026

1/8/2026

Summary

Story summary

In 2026, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev signed a law banning pro-LGBTQ+ speech, inspired by a citizens' petition and linking LGBTQ+ identities to child abuse, a policy criticized by activists.
Botswana is pursuing marriage equality, with a court hearing scheduled for February 2026.
Ghana's Family Values bill could criminalize gay sex further.
Thailand and Liechtenstein have embraced marriage equality.
The International Olympic Committee plans to announce eligibility criteria for trans athletes soon.

History

Historical Context

In 1973, the American Psychiatric Association declassified homosexuality as a mental disorder, significantly advancing LGBTQ+ rights. This shift spurred global advocacy, leading to milestones like Ireland's same-sex marriage legalization in 2015. However, backlash persists, exemplified by Kazakhstan's recent law banning pro-LGBTQ+ speech, highlighting the ongoing struggle between progressive and regressive policies affecting LGBTQ+ rights worldwide.

1 of 2

Story summary

In 2026, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev signed a law banning pro-LGBTQ+ speech, inspired by a citizens' petition and linking LGBTQ+ identities to child abuse, a policy criticized by activists.
Botswana is pursuing marriage equality, with a court hearing scheduled for February 2026.
Ghana's Family Values bill could criminalize gay sex further.
Thailand and Liechtenstein have embraced marriage equality.
The International Olympic Committee plans to announce eligibility criteria for trans athletes soon.

1 / 2