LGBT rights in Bonaire


Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender rights in Bonaire are very progressive by Caribbean standards. Bonaire forms part of the Caribbean Netherlands and is a special municipalitiy of the Netherlands. Both male and female same-sex sexual activity are legal in Bonaire, with same-sex marriage and adoption being legal since 2012. In addition, discrimination on the basis of "heterosexual and homosexual orientation" is outlawed.

Law regarding same-sex sexual activity

Same-sex sexual activity is legal in Bonaire.

Recognition of same-sex relationships

Same-sex marriage in Bonaire became legal following the entry into force of a law enabling same-sex couples to marry there on 10 October 2012.
The first same-sex marriage occurred on 18 May 2013 between an Aruban and a Venezuelan national.

Discrimination protections

The Criminal Code BES, which applies to Bonaire and the islands of Saba and Sint Eustatius, criminalizes discrimination on the basis of "heterosexual and homosexual orientation". Article 144 provides for penalties varying from fines to two years' imprisonment.
In addition, Article 1 of the Constitution of the Netherlands applies to Bonaire. The article reads "All persons in the Netherlands shall be treated equally in equal
circumstances. Discrimination on the grounds of religion, belief, political opinion, race or sex or on any other grounds whatsoever shall not be permitted."
The Netherlands Institute for Human Rights is a research institute which "protects, advances and monitors human rights". The Institute, established by law in 2010, works in the European Netherlands and also in the Caribbean Netherlands.

Living conditions

Due to Bonaire's small population of less than 20,000, there is no gay scene on the island. There are no specific gay venues or bars, though many do advocate as being "gay-friendly" and welcoming. There is, however, one gay association, known as EQ Bonaire. The group aims to "promote social reforms thereby achieving social acceptance of homosexuality".
Anti-gay discrimination is almost unheard of in Bonaire,while in schools homophobia runs rampent though some local LGBT people have claimed that societal rejection, particularly directed at locals, does exist.

Summary table

Same-sex sexual activity legal
Equal age of consent
Anti-discrimination laws in employment
Anti-discrimination laws in the provision of goods and services
Anti-discrimination laws in all other areas
Same-sex marriages
Recognition of same-sex relationships
Stepchild adoption by same-sex couples
Joint adoption by same-sex couples
LGBT people allowed to serve in the military
Right to change legal gender
Access to IVF for lesbians
Commercial surrogacy for gay male couples
MSMs allowed to donate blood