LGBT rights in the Turks and Caicos Islands


Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender persons in the British Overseas Territory of the Turks and Caicos Islands face legal challenges not experienced by non-LGBT residents. Same-sex sexual activity has been legal in the Turks and Caicos Islands since 2001, and discrimination based on sexual orientation is constitutionally banned. Nevertheless, same-sex marriage is constitutionally banned.

Legality of same-sex sexual activity

Same-sex sexual acts were expressly decriminalised under the United Kingdom's Caribbean Territories Order, 2000, which took effect on 1 January 2001.
The law received considerable local media coverage. The two largest newspapers described the law as "an affront to our country" and "the sissy law".

Recognition of same-sex relationships

and civil unions are not legal in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Same-sex marriage is constitutionally banned as Article 10 of the Constitution reads:

Discrimination protections

Article 16 of the Constitution bans discrimination based on sexual orientation:

Living conditions

The Turks and Caicos Islands are considered a safe destination for LGBT tourists. LGBT people tend to face no discrimination issues in resorts and very touristic areas. Most Turks and Caicos inhabitants are quite tolerant of same-sex relationships. Several gay-themed cruise ships have also been allowed to port in the islands.
There are no known gay rights organisations in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Several government education programmes on HIV/AIDS have reached out to gay men, though.
Homophobia in the Turks and Caicos Islands is mostly religious-based. Following the passage of Proposition 8 in California, several religious preachers called on same-sex marriage to be constitutionally banned in island law. Religious groups have also opposed greater awareness and prevention of HIV/AIDS, erroneously claiming that straight men and women cannot get infected.

Summary table