Where pride is hidden
While in many countries sexual orientations other than heterosexual are acknowledged, accepted, and respected, in some other countries this is still an issue. In 71 countries worldwide, being homosexual is, in fact, more than just an issue, it is considered to be a crime. Most of these countries are located in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. In 11 countries, the death penalty is imposed, or is at least a possibility, for same-sex sexual activity. However, criminalization is not the only reason why many LGBTQ+ people cannot express their sexual orientation. The LGBTQ+ community is often the target of hate crimes and discrimination. A survey conducted in Europe shows that in Eastern Europe and the Balkans, roughly seven in 10 people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, or intersex are never or almost never open about their sexual orientation.Acceptance of homosexuality is on the rise
Acceptance of homosexuality is higher in Western European countries, Canada, and Australia. Among these countries, over 80 percent of respondents taking part in a recent survey believed that homosexuality should be accepted by society. Data shows that generally acceptance is higher among people who support left-wing ideologies, are more educated, and who are not very religious.Over the last years, there has been a positive change in the acceptance of homosexuality in the world. Among 27 countries surveyed, South Africa and India recorded the highest increases in the acceptance of homosexuality in society. South Africa is not the only African country making significant progress in this matter: Tunisia, Nigeria, and Kenya recorded an increase as well. Nevertheless, this does not mean that people feel free to express their sexual orientation openly, as exclusion and violence towards LGBTQ+ people persists in these countries. In fact, despite a slight growth in acceptance, Nigeria remains one of the most dangerous countries for LGBTQ+ people in the world.
