Story perspectives

Privy Council Hearing Could End Caribbean Gay Sex Bans

7/8/2026

Summary

Story summary

The July 8 hearing before the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council in London could create the first Caribbean precedent to overturn bans on gay sex.
Jason Jones argues that Trinidad and Tobago’s “buggery” statutes, punishable by five years, violate human-rights standards.
The government opposes the case with support from the Council of Evangelical Churches.
Activists say the law fuels stigma for youth forming their identity and urge a swift ruling.

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Story summary

The July 8 hearing before the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council in London could create the first Caribbean precedent to overturn bans on gay sex.
Jason Jones argues that Trinidad and Tobago’s “buggery” statutes, punishable by five years, violate human-rights standards.
The government opposes the case with support from the Council of Evangelical Churches.
Activists say the law fuels stigma for youth forming their identity and urge a swift ruling.