Is switzerland gay friendly

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This was a much higher percentage than officials were expecting. The referendum on 26 September 2021 saw just over 64% of Swiss vote to approve gay marriage and adoption rights. 

LGBT+ adoption in Switzerland

Prior to the 2021 referendum approving changes to the law, the adoption rights of LGBT+ couples in Switzerland were limited.

It is important to note that each canton has different laws. Both groups work on representation, visibility, and civil rights. Most information is in French or German with some Italian. In 2020, the Swiss Parliament overwhelmingly passed legislation on gay marriage and adoption rights.

To help you understand the landscape of LGBT+ rights in Switzerland, this article provides the following information:

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Additionally, reach out to local LGBT advocacy groups in Switzerland, such as Transgender Network Switzerland (TGNS), for guidance, support, and the latest information on trans rights.

So, let’s celebrate the progress made so far for trans rights in Switzerland while also acknowledging the steps that still need to be taken to ensure the safety and inclusion of all transgender and non-binary individuals.

In fact, in November 2020, a Swiss citizen was denied recognition of their gender as the authorities argued that registering non-binary genders was against public order. The cities of Zurich, Geneva, and Basel are the centers of gay life.

is switzerland gay friendly

Though the country is progressive, being aware of the local context can help ensure a safer and more comfortable experience. This was reinforced by the 2021 referendum.

There is currently a diversity office, and since 2019, draftees have been able to specify their gender identity independent from their assigned sex. 

Violence and hate crimes against the LGBT+ community in Switzerland

Unfortunately, there is still no general anti-discrimination legislation or state support for LGBT+ victims.

It is essential to remain vigilant and prioritize personal safety.

For those in need of support or protection, reaching out to LGBTQ+ advocacy groups or local embassies can prove helpful. In other words, a gay couple can adopt children unrelated to either of them. Connecting with local and international LGBT advocacy groups can be a great source of support and information.

It’s essential to remember that, as with any location, there may be individuals who harbor negative attitudes toward the LGBT community.

The motion, introduced by the Conservative Democrats, was approved 97–89.[66] However, this was rejected by the Council of States on 29 November 2017.[67] The 1 year deferral period for gay and bisexual men donating blood therefore remains in place.

Equal age of consent in Switzerland

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Equal age of consent in Switzerland is equal.

Consensual age is Switzerland is 16 years old, unless the difference in age between the persons involved is not more than 3 years.


LGBT Rights by Canton

View the LGBT laws in each individual canton of Switzerland.


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Every May in Zurich, the Pink Apple LGBT Film festival also promotes positive representation in the arts and media. 

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Public opinion surveys in Switzerland have pointed to a varied attitude towards LGBTQ+ individuals.

Survey results from 14 LGBTQ+ Equaldex users who lived in or visited Switzerland.

Perceived Safety*
Absence of verbal harassment
Absence of threats and violence
*Survey results represent personal perceptions of safety and may not be indicative of current actual conditions.

Equal Treatment
Treatment by general public
Treatment by law enforcement
Treatment by religious groups

Visibility & Representation
Representation in entertainment

Culture
Interest groups and clubs

Services
Support and social services

History

Homosexual activity in Switzerland

?

Homosexual activity in Switzerland is legal.

Current status
Homosexual acts were not mentioned anymore in the revision of the Penal Code of 1991.

In 2016, 69% of the population supported same-sex marriage, and 50% supported joint adoption.

Doctors also require psychological confirmation before they can administer hormones or refer patients for surgeries.

There are several Pride Parades throughout Switzerland, the largest of which is Zurich Pride, which was first held in 1994.

This includes protection against a reduction in salary, placement in a different work assignment, or termination of work due to identity.

As a result, they have called for politicians to launch national awareness campaigns and create a national reporting office on hate crime in Switzerland. While the general environment is inclusive, situations could change, and it’s always prudent to consult current advice before traveling.

It is noteworthy that there are several LGBTQ+ advocacy groups in Switzerland working towards further inclusivity and rights for the community.

By remaining vigilant, staying informed, and connecting with local advocacy groups, you can take steps to protect yourself and enjoy your time in this beautiful country.

LGBTQ+ rights in Switzerland

LGBTQI rights

Government & Law

From gay marriage to societal attitudes and recent laws, explore all there is to know about LGBT+ rights in Switzerland.

By Sarah May Grunwald

Updated 26-5-2025

When it comes to LGBT+ rights and policies, Switzerland has historically lagged behind most of Western Europe.

However, Switzerland only recognizes male and female as official genders and a third (non-binary) is not an option.